First we looked at that spark that gets us going (See “Just One Little Spark”) then we moved on to a closer examination of what it takes for us to LOSE that spark. 

What happens to get you off your mark? 

What does it take before you declare a STATE OF CATASTROPHE? 

Or WHO?   Who’s approval do you need  . . . ALL THE TIME?    Gad. Now you understand why some people solve the DOWNER problem–the problem of your emotions, your forward-seeking energy, your “zone” BEING UP FOR GRABS  . . .  all the time . . . by moving to Alaska and living in an abandoned school bus.

Next best alternative?  I mean, until that brain transplant procedure is perfected?  Work on our own brains.  We can CHANGE our brains by what we think.  When we change our brains, we change what “happens” in our lives.  No magic.  When your in you’re not anxious–

When you are in your  ”zone:”

You have better judgment . . . You see more alternatives . . . You respond less defensively . . . You listen to what the other person is saying . . . You are less “black and white” . . . You do not see one person as all right and one person as all wrong . . . You open the door for better OUTCOMES.  And, I’m just guessing on this, but I imagine I, uh, you would get fewer traffic tickets.

So, how do you get to that calmer place?  For starters, copy the following sentence and keep it handy.

This (whatever) is UNFORTUNATE, UNPLEASANT, and INCONVENIENT, but NOT a CATASROPHE . . .   unless I DECIDE  to make it one.

Perma-weinnies, such as myself, will have to take on responsibility for our own “zone” a little bit at a time.  Manana.