We all have our breaking point, or as Popeye would say…that’s alls I can stands I can’t stands no more…But our ability to keep our reactions in check is the most difficult part. This is one of the toughest areas to address with ADD, ADHD and Executive Functioning clients. How do you control your emotions when you’ve reached the boiling point?
Everyone needs to build in what’s called the one second pause button. We should take a second to evaluate our options. Is yelling, swearing or hitting the person worth the consequences that may follow? Sometimes it is very hard to do this when you’re in the heat of the moment, but trust me, it has saved me from some really bad consequences. I’d like to say that I’ve always followed my own advice, but I’d be lying. But it’s essential that I begin to really think before I act especially around my two children.
If you do react in the not so appropriate fashion, you need to be willing to live with the results. As my father told me when I was a child, if you do something, own up to it. I remember when I was a child I had a fight with another child at school. While I do not condone violence, this other boy left me no choice. He regularly teased and bullied me. I told the teachers and nothing was done about it. Finally, he said one too many things and I attacked. When the teachers pulled me off of him (it took four), I was immediately brought to the principal’s office. After being lectured for ten minutes, I was asked if I was sorry. I gave her the honest answer which was no. I felt like I was right and was willing to deal with the consequences. I was suspended and this boy along with everyone else at my school left me alone.
Finally, learn from your mistakes. Reflection is essential in growth. We’re not always proud of the things we do, but evaluating and learning from situations makes us stronger.
For more information on my ADD, ADHD and Executive Functioning coaching, please visit www.adhdefcoach.com. In addition to working with clients in-person, I also work with clients all over the United States and World online, please visit www.onlineadhdcoach.com for more information. To learn more about my other services, please visit www.carrolleducationalgroup.com & www.iepexperts.com. I can be found on Twitter at ADHDGuru. You can also find me on Facebook, Google Plus and Tumblr. Feel free to email me at [email protected] or call 877.398.ADHD (2343) with any additional questions.