My action plan

[Guest guest]

Hi ACTors

I've posted before about what to do with emotions and feelings. I often get

gripped with acute feelings of intense panic and fright. Typically they are

about my son's learning difficulties; or my fear of making a mistake at work. I

don't believe I have bottomed-out what to do " in the moment " - maybe 2 or 3

times a week - when I am overwhelmed.

This is my action plan, having re-read parts of The Happ. Trap, for when it

hits. I think it's good! But I am always willing to learn so comments are

welcome

1. Do nothing. I'm going to spend 10 mins just willingly letting the waves hit

me. I'm feeling these because I am a loving Dad / a conscientious worker, and

I'm willing to feel crap from time-to-time, because that's inevitable with these

responsibilities. Bring it on. I can take it.

2. After 10 minutes, I will notice 5 things, taking deep breaths. I can't let

the feelings waste too much of my time, and I will try to disengage from them.

3. I will then notice what feelings are there, and try expansion to make room

for them. I will try to visualise where they are, the texture and colour of

them, and will picture holding them in my hand. I will try that trick of

picturing someone whom I love touching my anxiety with their hands.

4. After using 2 / 3 again for a while, I will then make a cup of coffee. And

possibly a really nice sandwich. (That wasn't in the Happiness Trap. A glaring

oversight, in my opinion!!!)

5. The next day, I will think about what caused the anxiety attack, to check

there wasn't anything useful in what my body and mind was telling me. Sometimes

a panic attack is triggered for a genuine reason that I need to respond to. But

I will respond the next day, when the waters are calm.

6. I will not kick myself if this doesn't work straight away. I need practice.

There we go. A plan.

x