I Yelled “Get Out!” at My Little Daughter

When my daughter was in elementary school, I was fortunate to work from home. That meant I was able to meet her at the door to greet her, ask about her day, and if she wanted a snack.

One day, I was on the phone trying to figure out a very expensive doctor bill. The insurance company told me the problem was with my doctor and how they had coded the visit. The doctor told me that I needed to figure it out with my insurance. I felt like I was getting the run-around; constantly being put on hold and transferred, with no solution in sight. My frustration was through the roof!

Suddenly, I heard a sound behind me. I turned to see my little daughter standing in the doorway of my office. I had totally forgotten about her coming home soon. I was still on the phone and still fully irritated at the situation when she said, “Mommy, I’m hungry.”

At that moment, I had no patience or empathy. My saboteurs were in full control. Instead of calmly telling her I needed a few minutes, I scowled and yelled at her to “GET OUT!” I instantly felt horrible.

It’s so much easier to be kind when I’m not stressed. It’s so much easier to choose a helpful response when I’m not hungry, tired, irritated, or upset. 

I’ve learned that when I keep my positivity battery charged, when I take care of myself, when I take time to feel good, everything else gets easier. And I’m nicer to be around.

What could you do right now to charge yourself up? To make yourself feel better? Check out this link for ideas to get you started.