There was a time when I received some negative criticism after a training program I delivered. When I read the feedback, I felt frustrated and angry almost instantly. I couldn’t shake the emotional reaction. As I got on a call with someone afterward, I realized those thoughts were still running through my mind. I wasn’t fully present. I wasn’t giving the person in front of me my full attention.
But I also knew something: with time, that emotional sting would fade. I’d probably even learn something from the criticism. Maybe I would actually be grateful for it later. So instead of waiting for that moment to arrive, I chose to be grateful right then. I reminded myself that eventually this feedback could help me improve. That shift allowed me to refocus on the moment in front of me and give the other person my full presence.
How often do we get upset by something—a comment, an inconvenience, an interaction—and we hold onto the negative emotion far longer than it deserves? We know it will pass, yet we cling to it.
Emotions have a half-life. They fade. They dissolve. They lose intensity.
We don’t have to deny how we feel. We just need to redirect our attention. Dwelling on the emotion doesn’t help us. Giving our attention to the present moment does.
When you feel frustrated, hurt, or irritated, remind yourself: This emotion will not last. Then ask: What deserves my attention right now?
Choosing the present over the past is how we regain control—especially when the people and situations causing stress aren’t going anywhere any time soon.
Give your attention to what matters now. That is how you take your power back.