The Power of Not Taking Things Personally

A while back, I found myself at one of those family gatherings where chaos and conversation collide. Kids were zipping around like caffeinated squirrels, my uncle was enthusiastically pitching me his latest "brilliant business idea," which somehow involved goats, solar panels, and a questionable amount of duct tape, and the snack table was under siege by a determined toddler wielding a fistful of tortilla chips. Just as I managed to snag a plate of food and secure a prime corner spot by the lemonade, one of my cousins zeroed in on me.

"Oh, must be nice to just sit around writing all day," he quipped, loud enough to earn a few chuckles. Normally, that would’ve triggered me faster than a seagull spotting a dropped French fry. But that day? I just smiled and took another sip of my lemonade.

Why? Because I realized something important: you can only be offended if you let yourself be offended.

We don’t always get to control what people say, but we do get to control how we respond. That moment at the barbecue taught me that taking offense is a choice — and frankly, choosing peace felt way better than spiraling into a snarky comeback competition.

Next time someone throws a snide remark your way, try this: pause. Ask yourself, "Is this really worth my energy?"

Chances are, it's not. Instead of giving power to the comment, let it slide like water off a duck’s back.

The next time someone tests your patience, take a breath — and remember that choosing calm is a win every time. Trust me, it’s way more satisfying than crafting the perfect comeback. Plus, you’ll have more time to enjoy your lemonade.

ChillaxTribe

POSITIVE AFFIRMATION

I respond with understanding instead of reacting with anger.