GUEST COLUMN: There Will Be Those Days

No matter how hard you try to stay positive, there are going to be times when things upset you, disappoint you, or even make you angry. You didn’t get the listing that your dear friend promised you. Your buyer client decided to pull out of the deal that you worked so hard to put together. The agent on the other side of the transaction is a nightmare to work with, and you just had the most heated exchange. These things happen and can cause your stress levels to go through the roof. But you have to remember: You can’t control what people do. You can only control how you respond to it. And the quicker you can let it go, the better off you and your business will be.

When dealing with situations that take you from center and make you unhappy, sometimes it’s best to completely step away and engage in activities that will get you back to a positive mindset.

Here are six things you can do to help you get back to your happy place.

1. Go for a Walk—Never underestimate the power of a good walk. According to WebMD, walking helps boost your mood by increasing blood flow and blood circulation to the brain and body. When you exercise by walking, you calm your nerves, which can make you feel less stressed. Do it for 15 minutes to 20 minutes and be sure to take in some deep breaths along the way.

2. Phone a Friend—No, don’t call your friend to complain. Dwelling on it does nothing but prolong its negative effects. Shift your mindset by focusing on something or someone else that you care about. Call your grandmother or your child who is away at college. Tuning into and connecting with loved ones should assist in making your day just a little brighter. But, if you do need to talk about the situation for clarity and/or solutions, be sure to discuss it with your broker or manager.

3. Write it Out—You ever hear the saying “better out than in?” Sometimes you really just need to get that negative energy out. It’s best not to unleash it on others (unless you’re paying them for therapy) but releasing it on paper helps to free your mind of it, allowing space for you to focus on more positive things, like your next deal. Journal after you’ve gone for a walk. The combination can work wonders.

4. Listen to a Positive Podcast—Taking in positive messages helps to create more positive feelings and quiets the negative noise in your brain. You may also consider listening to something comical. Comedy may not be as inspirational, but laughter is known to enhance your oxygen intake, which stimulates your respiratory system, increasing the endorphins released in your brain, which help in relieving stress.

5. Go for a Massage—According to Mayoclinichealthsystem.org, aside from just feeling good, massage can lower stress levels and any feeling of anxiety. It can also improve mood and relaxation while increasing confidence and self-image. I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling less stressed just writing about massage.

6. Just Dance—Ok, maybe not in the office, though I personally wouldn’t mind a good impromptu dance party. Turning on some music at home and busting a move always helps put me in a better mood. As with walking or any other form of exercise, dancing increases blood flow and promotes circulation, raises endorphins and reduces stress.

No matter who you are, there will be things that rattle your cage. How quickly you calm the savage beast inside depends on you and only you. How you choose to respond to unfavorable situations matters. And remember, this too shall pass. There are brighter days ahead.