Yoga and guided meditation help reduce stress.
Everyone encounters people on a daily basis who are impolite. Pushy commuters, bad drivers, and rude customer service representatives can get under your skin and ruin your day. If you often get your feelings hurt by strangers, and you wonder how you can let the craziness roll off your back instead, you can try reframing the situation, using relaxation techniques, and being assertive.
Instructions
1. Reframe the situation. You may be assuming, for example, that the action is directed personally toward you, that its effect is catastrophic and unlimited, and that its significance is general and universally applicable. Reframing self-talk can help correct some of these distortions through statements such as, "It's not about me; this person was probably just having a bad day" and "This is just one annoying incident. I'm sure my day will get better soon."
2. Use relaxation techniques. Stress triggers biochemical reactions such as the release of cortisol, adrenaline, increased heart rate, and the activation of centers of the brain associated with fear. These stressors can feel overwhelming for some people if not countered by relaxation and self-soothing techniques. Some of these techniques include deep breathing, visualization of peaceful settings, body awareness, and progressive muscle relaxation.
3. Use assertiveness skills. If you are frequently bothered by situations in which you need to advocate for yourself (such as applying for bank loans or dealing with recalcitrant customer service representatives), you can try using techniques such as assertive listening, a confident posture, and nonverbal cues. For example, use phrases such as, "What I heard you say is this ... is that correct?" Use your posture to communicate confidence and self-control. When speaking, maintain eye contact, and when listening, lean forward slightly to signal interest.
Tags: customer service, customer service representatives, relaxation techniques, service representatives