It is the things that we cannot control in life that can be the most frustrating.  You may feel frustrated with a teammate on the sport field, someone with whom you work, or a loved one.  When there is not a clear or favorable solution to the issue at hand, when we are constantly fighting battles and not winning, we can feel helpless and unmotivated.

What can we do to ease this frustration and stress?  Here are two tips:

Control what you can control

You can only change how you react to the situation.

Galileo said, “You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him to find it within himself.”

As much as you may want to, you may never change a person’s mind.  Accept his or her position and make a decision on how you can respond with integrity.  For example, perhaps you decide to not discuss politics with your mother-in-law and politely change the subject when the conversation goes that way.

You can’t change the fact that highly stressful events are going to happen, but you can change how you interpret and respond to these events.  Certain goals may no longer be attainable as a result of adverse situations.  Accepting circumstances that cannot be changed can help you focus on circumstances that you can alter.  Make a new plan.

Exercise

Exercise is a great way to relieve frustration.  Just 10 minutes of brisk walking will boost your mood for two hours.  If the stress is getting to you, go for a walk to blow off some steam.

Put some intervals into your workouts.  For example, try some fartleks.  Getting your heart rate up for short periods of time will help get out some of your anger and ease your mind.

Taking control of the situation and exercising are two ways to manage frustration.  Also, try breathing exercises, yoga, positive self-talk, positive thinking, and laughing with friends.  We build resilience when we manage stress in a healthy way.

At Summit Performance Consulting LLC, consultants put together a customized mental skills training plan to help you get and stay motivated, navigate challenges, and build on your strengths.  To learn more, please contact us at 561-325-8363 or at Info@SummitPerformanceConsulting.com.