There are many personality types in the world and the way in which we respond to the unexpected and the unknown often show us a lot about ourselves. These reactions can vary depending on our stress and rest levels, circumstances and general mood of the day. However, a positive reaction to change, especially the unexpected, can do a lot to train your brain to become resilient and more positive in general. For example, if you experience poor customer service unexpectedly one day and it costs you time, money and emotional energy, you have two options – you can let it bug you all day and repeat the story to many people, escalating those negative emotions and letting them leak into the rest of your life. On the other hand, you can acknowledge that it was inconvenient, seek resolution instantly and then consciously decide to move on and purposefully enjoy the rest of your day so that not another moment is taken up with that negativity. This takes a large amount of willpower, but adheres to the idea that grudges and resentment are a poison only to those that hold it, and not the cause or object of the emotions. It is detrimental to your physical, emotional and mental health to continue to ruminate on negative experiences and shows an extraordinary maturity if you can acknowledge the experience and detach it from the rest of your life. This can also apply to situations with difficult co-workers or family members, inconsiderate drivers in traffic, rude strangers and offensive social media posts. Remember, you do not have to react to everything – and if you do react, you do not need to continue to engage emotionally with that subject in your mind once your reaction has been completed.
LLUMI Australia 