Are there times when your are overly frustrated by a relatively minor situation, and wonder just what to do to keep your cool? We all get into these predicaments at times. When it’s happening, we often feel out of control.
I had an experience like that just the other day. I had re-upped an account with a stock photo company a month ago over the phone with a sales rep who had offered me a substantial discount for renewing. However, I didn’t need any images until this week. When I went in to my online account I discovered that my new allotment of images had never been deposited into my account. But my charge card had been billed and paid weeks ago! I soon became entangled in a confusing loop of phone calls and emails with this company, including the rep I had purchased from. Between sales people, customer support and tech support, this was taking hours of my time and I was losing hope that this would ever be resolved.
Instead of sitting there, fuming, I reminded myself to follow my own advice! First I took a “breather” — literally. I took a couple of cleansing breaths. This allowed me to start thinking a bit more clearly. I began to envision the resolution of this matter happening soon and peacefully for the best outcome.
I decided to focus on this affirmation: “I am calm and centered. I fully trust that this issue will be fully resolved today. I am grateful for all the phone support that this company provides.” Then I just sat a moment and pictured this situation having a positive outcome, really “seeing” my account credited for my purchase, and then envisioned myself being able to download images. I definitely experienced a shift from frustration to calm.
Within the hour, one very wonderful, kind rep called to explain that my purchase had accidentally been given to another customer! She was very apologetic, but immediately walked me through an online process of crediting my account. I had my images that evening.
Don’t underestimate how powerful these small positive actions and affirmations can impact life’s little routine obstacles. Use these steps to help when you find yourself in such scenarios:
- Pause
- Breathe (several deep cleansing breaths)
- Think (about how to best proceed)
- Create a quick affirmation solution to your particular problem and focus upon it
- Envision the positive outcome very specifically and clearly
- Be confident that it WILL be resolved for your highest good
