An Unusual Start
It started this morning when my husband turned on the television at 5 AM. We rarely turn the television on this early unless there is a weather event. Hurricane Sally was part of a weather system that had dumped about 8 inches of rain in our area. More rain was on its way. Within 2 minutes, the forecaster suggested it would reach our area this afternoon. I learned enough to cause me to nestle in bed for about 50 more minutes.
I turned over to enjoy one last doze before getting up. For the first time in several weeks I slept through the night and felt well rested. This morning that last doze was like topping off a glass of my favorite wine. Not too much, but just enough to feel complete.
The coveted doze would not happen. My husband left the television on when he took the dog out for her morning business. Okay, so I already caught a glimpse of the weather. That was good and helpful. Perhaps he thought I wanted to see some early morning news, too. Nope, I wanted to snooze for 45 more minutes. I turned the television off and turned over. As soon as I turned over, I sensed light streaming into our bedroom.
Then There Was Light
Turning over again and saw that my husband left our bedroom door open. From the strength of the light, I realized that he had turned on the brightest kitchen light. Then without warning, I heard the television in the kitchen blaring. Surely, he would turn it down immediately. Nope. This morning was not starting the way I had hoped.
At first, I tried to ignore the light and the sound. Then I got mad. Yes, I was angry that my moment of peace, quiet and contentment was ruined. I got up 30 minutes earlier than planned and began my morning routine preparing to leave for work.
My husband had absolutely no clue as to how his actions affected my morning. Why should he? Had it been the other way around, I would have heard a barrage of sighs and snide comments about disturbing him. I could have said something and started an argument, but to what end? So, I chose a mindful approach to refocus myself.
What do you do when your plans are disrupted by someone? Do you stay silent? Does the anger seethe within? Your response to a situation may determine the level of stress you experience. Here are four mindful ways to respond to trying situations.
Four Mindful Strategies
Acknowledge your feelings – I felt relief once I admitted that I was angry and frustrated. Acknowledgment gave me permission to let the negative feelings go. I then began to express gratitude for the restful night’s sleep I enjoyed.
Be curious – Ask questions to understand another’s actions. I could have asked my husband why he turned the television on so early. His behavior was different than usual this morning. A simple question could have provided some context to the morning.
Make your desires known – I could have told my husband that I wanted to get an extra nap before getting up. Essentially, I expected him to read my mind and to know what I wanted. In all fairness he usually anticipates my desires and is attentive to my needs. Today was unusual.
Seek to understand – It was not until this afternoon that I learned that he, too slept better than he had in months. He woke up well rested and refreshed. In the past, my husband would wake up at 5 o’clock every morning. He would read several newspapers online and watch the morning news. He explained that he slept so well last night that he was ready to start the day.
See the benefit – Getting up earlier than planned worked in my favor. I used the time to refocus my thoughts toward the positive. Refocusing enabled me to practice what I teach. It also set a positive tone for my day.
“I want to be happy, whole, satisfied and successful. What about you?”
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