Short messages on Positive change from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
Let people know that they can be honest with you. If someone thinks they need to walk on eggshells around you, they’ll likely hold things in – but those things will come out eventually, if not in words, in resentful actions.
A lot of drama comes from poor communication and confusion. Eliminate it by finding the courage to say exactly what you mean. It may be harder in the moment, but it can save a lot of heartache in the long run.
When decluttering, you can get rid of your items by donating them to charity, selling them as second-hand online, or simply by binning them if they’re not worth anything. This will reduce the distractions the items can bring, and reduces the mental clutter.
Some possessions carry emotional meaning or memories. If they’re not good memories, or you’re not so attached to them that you’d want to box them up to take if you’re moving house, consider getting rid of them when decluttering.
“Drama comes about because of either misunderstanding or overreaction. Be as honest and open in all cases as possible. Quell your own negative emotions, which will in turn diffuse the negative emotions of others.” – Vito Ruiz
“If I have an issue with someone I go straight to them to talk about it, and I don’t talk to anyone else about it if they aren’t involved. Gossip breeds drama!” – Kristie Sherman
We can be afraid of something because we haven’t been exposed to it very much. “Fear of the unknown” is a commonly-used phrase to describe what people feel to something that’s different. After confronting your false beliefs, you can start to slowly expose yourself to the fear.
When your fear arises, pause and reflect on your actual risk. Talk back to your negative thoughts or false beliefs and say for example, “I recognise that some dogs are vicious, but the vast majority of dogs are gentle. It is unlikely I will get bitten.”
If your workspace is untidy, all the clutter is visual noise. When you keep seeing it, you’re reminded of unfinished tasks, which could add unnecessary stress and stop you focusing on what you’re currently trying to do.
People working in an organised environment are able to be more productive and focused than someone working in a disorganised setting: you can concentrate better if your space is tidy and organised.