Un-Hook From Reaction with 5 Simple Tools

Un-Hook from Reaction with 5 Simple Tools

Relationships can be wonderful and rich, but they also often challenge us.

Those we care about the most can easily frustrate us.  Our significant other, our children or parents hook us and we react. 

Many times the feelings are justified, but the problem arises when we respond with inappropriate behavior.  Yelling, stomping and name calling is harmful to both you and those around you, and your frustrations can lead to these behaviors in a flash. It is like being blindsided by a car.  You did not see it coming until it is too late, but the damage is already done.

How can you step on the breaks instantly?

Here are some simple tools that can help:

1.          Take a breath

2.          Feel your feet on the ground

3.          Put a visual Stop Sign in your mind

4.          Walk away and talk later

5.          Bring to mind someone you care about (it might be the person you are reacting to)

What do all of these tools have in common?  They bring you back to the moment. 

Try one or all of these tools and see if it makes a difference.  If you react to others in emotionally harmful ways, and later realize that you should have used one of the above techniques, you are already on your way to change.  Please share what worked or did not work for you in the comments below.  Feel free to contact me with any questions.

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