Tranquilizer Anyone?

I’m trying something new. First off, I need to share some information about myself so let me state some facts. I’m a woman. (Uh…Duh, Annie!) As such, I tend to be more emotional than I would prefer. (Another news flash, I’m sure.) I’m also very intelligent. If there is one thing that should be known about me, it’s this: I dislike being “talked down” to in any circumstance or being treated in a patronizing manner. Of course, that also depends on who is doing the talking. If it’s a boss or one who is in authority (i.e. knows more about the subject in question), I don’t feel quite so vehement. If it is a teacher or instructor, I also have no problem. However, when it is someone who is on a similar level or is below me in rank (can you tell I’m talking about work?), I find it extremely condescending and most irritating.

However, as I said, I’m trying something new. I’m trying to maintain a level of emotional tranquility. I have been such a roller coaster in the past. It’s something I have always wanted to change. As I read an LDS book called “Our Search for Happiness”, those two words struck me: “emotional tranquility”. I suddenly had a mental picture of my emotional self running around like a mad woman and then being shot with a tranquilizer dart. That alternate self was immediately sedated and sent into a calm, cool-headed condition. She was not easily provoked and had unparalleled control over herself and her temperament.

Now, I’m not really an anxious person. I try to have a positive outlook. But I certainly can get myself riled up. Ask my family. Now, when I start heading down the road of provocation, I remember the words, “emotional tranquility.” So far, it calms me down. It has helped me to imagine that emotional basket case and envision her as she turns into a serene, composed woman. This has been an interesting trial run to say the least.

Since making this mental change, I have had repeated instances (that would have previously driven me up the wall) where I have put this mind game into action. For example, since I got to work today, several of my coworkers have been talking “down” to me. They have treated me as if I have no common sense. I guess if you think about it, common sense really isn’t that common, but I am on of those individuals who use common sense. I promise. Anyways, these associates have been more on the condescending side and it started getting on my nerves. As I wrote earlier, being patronized really boils my potatoes. Being treated like I don’t know a Twinkie from a donut or Skittles from M&M’s is not my favorite pastime. But in the process of writing this blog and repeatedly thinking, “Be Tranquil.” I’ve given the old mental tranquilizer dart the time to kick in.

Isn’t it wonderful that we can choose how to react to things?! Choice is such an important part of life: difficult at times, but worth it.

Now, I choose to go get some lunch. If you couldn’t tell, I’m hungry! (Mmmm…donuts!)