I feel myself slipping into a story. One that I am making up and exaggerating to grand proportions, allowing it to control my mind and sap my energy. Can you relate?
It’s about the kittens I am fostering. The story I am creating is that if I don’t find them good homes they will have to live their lives out in cages or something terrible will happen to them. My sensitivity to what animals feel is playing havoc with my mind.
But, wait! I recognize this. It’s my old friends worry, guilt, and over-responsibility coming to see if I will take them back. I remember what life with them was like before and don’t want to go there again. Here’s my plan (It might work for you too.):
1. Recognize my story for what it is. (When something starts to gather steam in your mind, carry emotional energy, and feel out of proportion to the circumstances, you can be pretty sure there is a story going on.)
2. Step back and look at the facts. What do I know for sure? What would Mr. Spock say? What factual information do I need to resolve this or make a decision?
3. When I am clear, I will pray, meditate, or journal to tap into my heart and spiritual guidance so that I can move through the situation in a way that is peaceful and for the highest good of all concerned. Including me.
Your Turn: What big stories are you telling yourself and how will you handle them?