Acceptance's Power: A Guide to Overcoming Frustration
When was the last time you were irritated by someone? Maybe they're often late, can't seem to follow through, or you just don't get along. The possibilities are endless and we all have a long list of things why somebody else frustrates us. We are wired to anticipate life to be exactly how we want it to be. And we don't like it when it isn't. Many of us prefer to carry such frustrations with us on a daily basis. We rapidly forget that we have a choice in how we feel. I am no exception. For years, I've carried a list of expectations that have turned into frustrations. We seem to have a knack for letting the uncontrollable get to us. What's the point, though? Others are simply being themselves. It's fine if others don't approach life in the same way you or I do. There isn't enough time in life to choose frustration over acceptance.Accept and embrace them for who they are. This is where we have the opportunity to develop. Consider how much easier and more pleasurable your life would be if you just let these minor details go. I strongly believe that we can do whatever we desire as long as our decisions are consistent with our true selves. However, expecting someone close to you to change (especially if they don't want to) is impractical. And getting frustrated when your expectations aren't met is even more foolish. The only empowering choice is to accept.
Frustration has no place in life. There will be numerous uncontrollable annoyances in life. Acceptance enables you to exercise control over what you can. When you accept someone for being themselves, you're compelled to look for the good in others. When you're surrounded by negative emotions, it's easy to forget how wonderful they are. Take a moment to recall what you like about them. Acceptance creates realistic expectations of others. Expect them to continue acting in this manner. Then you'll not be bothered whenever something unexpected occurs. Acceptance improves the quality of your connections. As you begin to focus on the best that individuals around you have to offer, the pent-up animosity will dissipate. And that is why Peter McWilliams has once said that "Acceptance is such an important commodity, some have called it the first law of personal growth".
This is my thread for TOW contest for Nov '21.
