Copyright 2020 – Rebecca Nietert
In the midst of life’s trials and tribulations, I discovered a valuable lesson that I hold dear: don’t let others dictate your actions or transform you into someone you’re not. No matter how tempting it may be to seek revenge or give others a taste of their own medicine, it’s crucial to never lose sight of who you truly are.
This past year has been a rollercoaster of emotions for me. Amidst great loss and conflict, I made a conscious decision to liberate myself from the weight of shouldering someone else’s troubles. And let me tell you, it was a revelation—an affirmation of life itself. When I take the stage and share my story, the immense relief I felt when I broke free from the chains of forgiveness, I hope that my words resonate with others, empowering them to choose their own perspectives.
Remember, you are not responsible for the falsehoods propagated by others. Just because someone approaches you with anger or distress does not mean you are obligated to absorb their pain as your own guilt. Many of us have an inherent desire to resolve conflicts, smooth things over, and engage in problem-solving. But sometimes, people stir up strife unnecessarily, and it is not your burden to bear. It’s important to recognize this and not let such petty behavior affect your own peace of mind.
Stay true to yourself. Embrace your power to choose your own path, untethered by the negativity that may surround you. By setting yourself free from the weight of others’ troubles, you can live life on your own terms, with resilience and unwavering strength. Let my words be a reminder to you: it’s your journey, and you have the power to be the master of your own narrative.
When stress strikes, a symphony of hormones begins to play, led by the relentless conductor, cortisol. Your adrenal glands work tirelessly, pumping this negative chemical imbalance throughout your body, seeping into your organs, your brain, and even your muscles. It’s as if your soul is taken hostage by this onslaught.
But here’s the thing, my friend. You have the power to take back control. You have the ability to resist the grip of this physiological chaos. By embracing the art of listening, allowing, and tolerating these emotional outbursts, you’ve essentially accepted this battle within your own body. It’s a decision that can’t be undone, leaving your joy plundered and your mood altered until a peaceful slumber can reset your system. No wonder people come home feeling stressed, overworked, exhausted, and plagued by worry. The domino effect has already begun.
As a relationship strategist, I’ve discovered a refined approach to dealing with this energy. It’s a graceful dance between the self and the stress. A simple request to those burdening you with their troubles can make all the difference: “While I truly appreciate your desire to include me in your difficulties, I can’t help but feel my own joy being drained away today. Can we kindly pause this conversation for now and revisit it at a later, more suitable time?”
There will be moments when your mind is occupied, when your energy is fragile, and you need to protect the sanctuary of your own being. It’s a gentle reminder to both yourself and others that self-preservation and the preservation of joy are worthy endeavors.
Now, as we step back into reality, let us remember that we hold the power to shape our own experiences, to carve out pockets of serenity amidst the chaos. Together, let’s choose to embrace tranquility and gratitude, navigating the labyrinth of stress with unwavering determination.
Reba Nietert 