The unexpected

What do you do when the unexpected occurs? I often get irritated, frustrated, and filled with anxious thoughts of the worst possible outcome. After that, the "why me" statements begin, followed by thoughts like, "Maybe I caused this with my behavior," or, "It’s inevitable." In the end, though, the unexpected just has to be dealt with.

It's easy to plan and make a checklist, then go down that checklist with a sense of accomplishment. But when the unexpected happens, it's your chance to use your coping skills—to push anxiety, frustration, and superstition to the bench where they belong. This allows you to step up to the plate and make the magic happen.

So, the next time the unexpected occurs, remember: you’ve got this. How do you cope with the unexpected ?

Steven Thompson