I have spent many exhausted evenings reflecting on the day and sharing the ungrateful and overly emotional phrase…

“If only __________ didn’t happen, I could’ve had a great day.”

Some practical examples:

  • If only my co-worker didn’t push work and meetings on me, I could’ve had a good day.
  • That driver in front of me is making me late to drop Jona off at school, this is ruining my day.
  • Another Grant temper tantrum, I am so over today.

Whenever I find myself overindulging in negative reflections, it often leads to lamenting which usually evolves into a sense of unbearable self-pity. While I know many mothers struggle with the balancing act of responsibilities often greater than themselves, I can’t help but feel I have it “worse than someone else,” in real-time reflection.

Which leads me to the “point” of this rant. Our perception is often a hinderance in our ability to fully enjoy reality.

While the examples I shared above, are allowed to be tied to an emotional response in the moment, it doesn’t have to control the way we show up and define our reflections of the day.

Here’s how we can actively shift our perspectives, using the practical examples listed above…

Stimulus: If only my co-worker didn’t give me more work, I could’ve had a good day.

Perspective shift: While I am annoyed I have more work, I have an opportunity to document the help I’m providing my co-worker, should I decide to go up for a promotion.

Stimulus: That driver in front of me is making me late to drop Jona off at school, this is ruining my day.

Perspective shift: The driver in front of me is obviously going through a thing, but I have an opportunity to spend more time with my son before he starts his school day. Maybe I’ll use this time to see what he’s most excited about for the day ahead or to sing Disney songs.

Stimulus: Another Grant temper tantrum, I am so over today.

Perspective shift: My one-year old obviously needs me. I should give him more cuddles and shower him with the same grace God gives me when I’m a hot mess. He’s only going to be one, once.

In shifting our perspectives we can find joy in the unexpected, no longer enslaved to negative stimulus. We are able to smell the roses, make lemons into lemonade and every other asinine cliche out there. Stay encouraged. Feel your emotions and shift your perspective.

Have a great weekend,