Shake It Off

On my way to work today, I had an unfriendly encounter, one of those unexpected things you can live without.

While crossing the street, I felt a kick on my foot. When I turned to see what had happened, a very muscular and unfriendly looking guy was standing there, staring at me. I kind of lowered my head and said something like "what is wrong with you", but not directly to him just to myself. This guy went off and started insulting me from the top of his lungs, yelling all kind of profanities.

At this point, I could have gotten very upset and get into an argument that would've let to a nasty confrontation. Instead, I decided to shake it off. I thought, "well, I am not the one having a problem. I am not the one looking for a fight. I am not going to own this problem and I am not going to let this person whom I don't know still my joy. I am going to shake it off."

You know what, it worked like a charm. Now, do not misunderstand this. I did not know that person. I did not know if he kicked me on purpose or if it was an accident. Maybe he was having the worst day of his life. But, I didn't do anything to provoke such a reaction and I was not going to let that reaction ruin my day.

Try it. Don't play the "I am gonna let you have it" game. If you do that, the damage will be greater on your end and you will have to deal with the consequences of your actions. Shake it off instead.

When that co-worker gets in your nerves, shake it off.

When you are about to say something mean to that annoying next door neighbor, shake it off.

When you miss your train or bus, don't get angry, there's another train, there's another bus, THERE IS ANOTHER CHANCE. Just shake it off and enjoy your day.