When we are at work, do we often get the results and outcomes we want? Do we expect our satisfaction or happiness to be coming from an external source? If this [fill in the blank happens], then I will be happy and peaceful [fill the “feel-good” emotion].
Day-to-day, we will run into some glitches (or are they?), customers who get anxious, behavior that affect us negatively. This stuff happens. The outcome is out of our control, but the beauty is in us. Things we identify or label as "bad." But does it have to affect us or be "bad?" Do we think that waiting for people to change their behavior will change the way we are feeling? We can feel great one moment and then feel agitated by something else. How do we stay fresh?
It starts with the fundamental relationship with yourself. How do you do it? Do you play sports? Do you dance? Do you listen to music? How do you enjoy and reach your innermost bliss and ecstasy, reaching your deepest deep? It is much more apparent.
So when we are in a role that is customer-facing, realize that you have the power to respond, not be caught up in the thoughts and emotions of others and expressing kindness to yourself and in turn to everyone around you. Our breath is a gift. You are brilliant.
Here's an exercise to try and see how it feels for you: (Remember no expectations.)
Each in-breath and each out-breath. Watch it come and go.
Watch the emotions that arise. Watch the thoughts that come.
Note that the feelings and thoughts are there; let go and go back to watching your breath. (Letting go is just not following the thought or emotion. That’s all there is to it.)
Note it. (Thoughts and emotions will come.)
If you are curious to learn more, check out a cool app called “Headspace."
While you are at it, I found this tune to pause in the day. Look out the window and take a walk. Self-care loves.