Lessons in the Goat: Day 25

  April 12. Air 🜁: The Mind

Dayhike Photography by Bob Day

Are you inconsolable?

I notice that when I am stressed, depleted, or struggling with a relationship, I tend to get really negative. I complain about small things. I ruminate and polish my grievances. I become critical of those I love, and even more so of those I do not love. I become difficult, self-pitying, and judgmental.Ā  There is a difference between being honest about my dissatisfaction versus being inconsolable and causing others harm.

I habitually use complaints to cope. I am ignoring the real issue: my deeper pain, and often, my fears.

Related Expertise

ā€œClearly, complaining has some benefits and can be a way to relieve stress, in small doses. But excessive complaining about the problems, big or small, just isn’t an effective solution. Cut out complaining, and you’re much more likely to see the world with optimism and gratitudeā€ (Scott, 2020).

Inspired Action

How will you find nurturing, healthy comfort today? What can you do to bring a gentle peace to your heart? This is not about getting others to do what you want; it is about consciously choosing acceptance. Start getting honest about what you fear most.Ā  Then make a plan to focus on what you can control for the next 24 hours: tend to your own choices, actions, and personal needs.

About Isa Glade - for writers, artists, and patrons

Isa Glade inspires and educates her readers to build a more creative life through her blog Isaglade.com. She is a retired newspaper columnist and high school teacher. Isa is now a writer, painter, a freelance editor, and writing coach, an intuitive, feminist, mother, recovering addict, and American nomad.

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