Grumpy Already?
How well are you managing your Grumpiness Level?
Are you already stressed, disappointed or irritable about things happening this Christmas?
How will you support each other?
Our Experience
Okay, it was a mistake to go to the mall on Black Friday. But it was late enough in the afternoon that Libby thought the crush might have been over.
“You won’t believe the traffic jam I’m in,” Libby reported to me on the phone.
“It’s not moving.”
“I’m sorry,” I replied.
“Perhaps you should just come home.”
“I think I might.”
Thirty minutes later she calls again.
“I haven’t moved since we talked,” she said.
“I’ve been in this traffic for an hour and thirty-six minutes. And you know how much I hate traffic.”
How should I respond?
If I did not pause and think about it, I might have blown this opportunity to support Libby. I could have easily said:
“I’m sorry, but why are you calling me again? There’s nothing I can do about it.” (This is your problem.)
“I told you it was a bad idea to go to the mall.” (Blame her.)
“How did you get in that traffic anyway?” (Shame her.)
What if I wanted to be present to her at this moment?
“I’m so sorry. It sounds horrible! I can’t believe it. Is there anything you can do?”
“Well, maybe someone will let me try a three-point turn to head in the other direction. I think I will give it a try.”
I hang on while she turns on her signal and carefully begins what will have to be a six-point turn in that tight situation. I listen as she whispers to the to the other drivers. And finally she is moving.
When she gets home, I celebrate her deliverance.
Several times over the next few hours she thanks me for caring for her on the phone.
In a survey, two-thirds of people say that their mental health suffers over Christmas.
Are any of these things likely to make you mad?
- The crowds while shopping.
- Every size available but yours.
- Being dragged to a work party you dread.
- Waiting in line at the post office to mail presents that will probably arrive late.
- Hanging your Christmas lights on outside bushes and trees.
- Sudden work emergencies that take you away from family.
And the biggest one of all?
- Negotiating family expectations, your parents, in-laws, children, etc.
Hi. It’s Libby. I’m taking over this last little bit! 😊
What is really important in the long run?
Take a step back, and go be a blessing to the precious people in your life this Christmas!
