What takes you out of the game?
Two weeks ago I hurt my foot walking down a slippery tar road to meet my dear friend Hilde for lunch. As I started walking down the steep path, I thought ‘hmm…this is a very bad idea!’ I could feel my shoes had no grip but I inched my way down slowly anyway. Suddenly I was on the tar with my right foot bent awkwardly underneath me. OUCH! I just sat there, amazed it had happened so quickly. The restaurant owner rushed out to pick me and help me to the nearest chair. I had taken a big chunk of skin off the top of my right foot, grazed my right ankle and knee. I didn’t realise how bad it was so I did what any sensible person would do, ordered wine and had a lovely lunch!
Over the next few days I struggled with pain and a deep weeping wound. Now here is why this is relevant. We only need to think a sad/bad thought for SIXTEEN seconds and more thoughts that are like it rush to meet it. Think bad thoughts for SIXTY seconds and you are heading deep down the dark and lonely rabbit hole.
Before I knew it, life felt tough. Everything was hard. Fear stealthily crept in. I am in the process of creating a new business model. What if I fail? What if I can’t do it? I felt so overwhelmed. Things I would normally skip through without missing a beat suddenly become insurmountable.
My triggers are money and health. When they are not in order, it takes me out of the game. I hate feeling weak or sick or broke. As a result, I find it almost impossible to talk myself out of the negative spiral. Thankfully, I have a close circle of friends and family who noticed something was going wrong and they stepped in to patiently guide me back to happy.
When you are feeling down and just want to be alone, reach out. There is always someone out there who can help you navigate the treacherous waters of sadness. There is a whole community out there who support you and need you to bring the special magic that only you can bring.
The next time something takes you out of the game, breathe, smile and reach out. You are not alone.
