Photo Credit: Yelp.com
During the holiday season we all have commitments, gatherings and activities that do less than excite us.
And one of mine is going to the post office. Last week I was dreading the experience as the lines are usually extremely long and there is limited counter help.
It was my low grade anxiety that helped me redesign this opportunity. I did three things which turned everything around and diminished the dread.
Here’s what worked for me and feel free to borrow these strategies:
- Proactively plan I chose to go at a time of day when it would be less crowded.
- Influence your environment I put in my earbuds as I walked there and listened to an inspiring podcast by one of my favorite authors. He accompanied me in the line too, thus making time go by quickly. I didn’t want to turn him off when my turn came!
- Create your mindset I focused on the whole reason for going vs. the process. Thinking about the outcome was motivating. I focused on my joy of giving and the recipients’ joy and surprise at receiving. Keeping this perspective made me happy and not frustrated.
I came away feeling uplifted and energized by the experience. These are not two words I would have put in the same sentence with holiday post office visit.
During this season especially, and at other times when you are feeling dread or unexcited anticipation, I encourage you to shift your perspective. Proactively plan, influence your environment when possible, focus on your mindset and chose your desired outcome.
You’ll create holiday magic!!