Irritated? There's treasure and insight in every emotion.

That thing that annoyed you yesterday, what was it really about? Think back to the visceral reaction to what your colleague said, or perhaps when you inwardly stopped in your tracks at lunch. 

Your surface reaction might just have been a huff, an incredulous look or a slightly irritated comment, leaving a residue of displeasure as you got on with your day.  But there’s wisdom here if you get curious. It’s an opportunity to get to know something about yourself. It matters, because the better you know yourself, the better you can lead and relate to others. There is insight in every emotion. What does your reaction reveal about you? 

Have a ponder or write some thoughts down. Do it openly and without judgement, neither of yourself nor of others involved. This is about exploring what is, not judging what ‘should be’. Just get curious. Hold it lightly. What about the topic got to you? What was it that's essential for you that felt under attack? Or what was the fear or insecurity that got a little nudge, making you uncomfortable? 

Bring the new insight along. Notice when it shows up again. Soon, you’ll be ready to choose your reactions and next steps around it, whatever those are for you. 

Photo by Andre Hunter on Unsplash