I was so discouraged! My plans for a delectable dinner with my bride had fallen apart. A last-minute meeting meant that I didn’t have time to properly marinate my tandori chicken. Instead of the 10 hours the recipe called for I was throwing it together at the last minute. The great day I was expecting had turned crummy and was sinking fast! ARGH! Have you ever felt discouraged, disappointed or frustrated because of last-second changes to your plans? How do you deal with change?
I have learned three things that help me handle unexpected changes whether it’s dealing with work, my kids, or my marriage:
1. Have a plan. If I know what to expect in my day, it makes it easier to deal with the occasional changes that come up.
2. Let go. I’m not as “in control” as I think I am so I need to trust in my faith and go with the flow.
3. Ask for help. Yes, I’m a guy, and we don’t ask for directions, help, or what we need enough.
As usual, Joy, my “Acts of Service Love Language” wife stepped in and offered to help. Once I let go of my ego, my “I can do it all mindset,” and accepted her help everything went a lot smoother. We ended up having a fabulous Indian dinner five minutes later than my original plan.
Whenever you feel frustrated, discouraged or disappointed step back and think about how you can change your attitude, your plan, and/or get help to make the best of the current situation. Your day, your work, and your marriage will be better off for it.
Kevin Decker. The Marriage Coach
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