We all have those things, or those people, that push our buttons. It may be in the moment, or it may be afterward, reflecting back on the moment.
Do you really have to respond to that email right away? Can you acknowledge that it is there, step back, let the energy of the line in your inbox dissipate, and then come back to it with a more open attitude? The news might still be bad, or irritating, but you will be approaching it with your strength instead of letting it beat you up.
I recently learned the concept of “Stop. Challenge. Choose.” (Anderson, 2019). I like the short, memorable phrase to help me remember that I don’t need to spontaneously react to the circumstance. I can think about my reaction and then mindfully choose my response.
Puzzle Pieces Coaching 