We've all had them. Disaster Days. The toddler screams for half an hour in the middle of the night. You get all of the morning tasks done and are leaving just on time when the smoke detector goes off because the battery is low. The dog loses his mind and the toddler follows suite and you can't get the darn thing off the wall or throw it far enough in the yard to make it stop screaming at you. You get to work (late), but have the wrong set of keys and can't get in. You get home and the toddler has boycotted a nap. You get him in the crib and the dog pukes in his room. He finally falls asleep as the dentist office calls to say you are in the process of missing your appointment. AARRRGGG!
So how do you survive without dipping into the vodka? (Ok, well maybe just one could make this funny sooner than a couple of weeks from now). Three survival tips that got me through today:
1. Thank the people around you. It's not your fault, it's not their fault. Sometimes things just don't go well and likely they are not quite as worked up as you are about it. Some unfortunate things may have happened and some inconveniences may have affected you and those around you. Gratitude helps to take the edge off of it.
2. Keep it in perspective. The world is pretty kooky around us with natural disasters striking rapid fire, international tensions mounting, and differences of opinion about how to handle any of it causing turmoil in relationships. There are some bad days that are life-altering and devastating. There are other bad days won't affect you tomorrow (or hopefully not much). If it is the minor variety, don't add to it by getting a speeding ticket (or worse) as you rush around like a maniac. The pain of stubbing your toe when you are already mad feels like an explosion.
3. Do something small that makes you feel good. Maybe a good idea to forget accomplishing something major. Better to take a breather and refresh to avoid further breakdown. (Seriously, it obviously isn't your day, so quit while you are ahead). Cry if you need to, and then do something minor that feels positive. I chose to strut around a little in my new shoes and change the laces like I like them (because I'm a nerd) and gave the dog kisses. And now it's time to move on.
