Brought back some great memories.
Over 30 years ago both my husband’s and my divisions were having trouble financially and there was a good chance we would both lose our jobs. Everyone was tense and worried at work, so I looked around and asked,
What’s the opportunity here?
The answer was obvious,
I could become an expert on stress management.
So I started wearing my
Life is uncertain, eat dessert first
T-shirt and started studying stress management.
Andy and I were both offered great early retirement packages, so we took them. He didn’t have any trouble finding some interesting consulting jobs, and I started teaching classes and leading groups in stress management, emotional aikido, dealing with difficult people, etc.
Since I was coming from physics and computer programming I got certified in Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) to give myself some credentials. Yesterday reminded me of two NLP ideas/quotes,
Focus on what you want, not on what you don’t want.
If what you’re doing isn’t working, try something else.
Plus a good question when a relationship isn’t working,
How long are you going to try drinking from an empty cup and complain that you are thirsty?
Powerful ideas, well worth remembering.
August 16, 2025
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You sure have led an interesting life. Yet another thing I learned about you today. I like that last question. I wish I would have asked myself that question a long time ago.
That’s a great question. 🙂
…I have always focused on my strengths and not my weaknesses.
Good for you. 🙂
Great questions!
🙂
You certainly have made good use of your strengths.
Thanks. 🙂
I like the focus on what you want, not what you don’t. You were a computer programmer? And what was your husband’s job?
Experimental physics, particle accelerators.
Yes, that happens when you try to look on the positive side of things!
🙂
You are a wonderment!
🙂
Love this – How long are you going to try drinking from an empty cup and complain that you are thirsty?
That is a gem!
Added that last question to my journal. Insert fist bump here.
Yes, it’s a great one!
yes
🙂
I’ve lost my walking fitness for a variety of health reasons. I decided I’d try wandering around this complex but I found myself in a situation thst meant I felt unsafe with uneven ground.
One of my buddies said “here take my walker and see how that helps”
It did but the arm rests caused a few issues.
Then she said I think there’s one in the storage room. There is an a tall man, not here now, so I took it out for a “walk” yesterday.
On my way back a board member saw me and yes I could use it until the family of the man pick it up!
If I can get the hang of it, I shall try to do do more, until it’s picked up. Then if I’m still not back on deck I’ll approach my.GP.and have one custom fitted fir me.
Getting one custom made is a great idea.
Good advice. I’m frustrated because other people don’t behave how I want them to. I know, childish. So last week I started telling people (my husband) what I really wanted and what I really thought. He wasn’t too keen on it. Oh well.
This morning I did the same with Jack’s other grandma, who says she will “help” but never does. I gave her the days I need help. Now the ball is in her court.
Growing up is hard.
I hope you do get some help. You have a lot (too much) to deal with.