Can I embrace it?
Control sounds like: "It can't be like this."
Acceptance sounds like: "It is like this."
Embrace sounds like: "It is like this. How can I use it to benefit me?"
It's not easy, but we can learn how to move along this spectrum. One way to do it is by asking these three questions:
1. How is trying to control this situation hurting me?
2. If I accepted this situation, how would that help me?
3. If I was to embrace this situation, what would I do next?
Start with something small, like the next time you're in a traffic jam. Here's an example of what that would look like:
1. How is trying to control this situation hurting me?
I can't change this situation, no matter what I do. My attempt to control this traffic jam is making me annoyed, frustrated, and grouchy.
2. If I accepted this situation, how would that help me?
If I accepted it for what it is, I might see that I don't have to be so annoyed, frustrated, and grouchy.
3. If I was to embrace this situation, what would I do next?
If I embraced it, I might find a way to make this time work for me. I could put on my favorite song, call a friend, or listen to a podcast I've queued up.
