I’ve been grumpy lately, and I can’t shake it. I don’t think I’ve been an absolute monster, but there’s this fine mist of uneasiness that’s been clouding my days. If you’ve ever seen a Claritin commercial, you know what I mean. The woman’s world is in color, but her allergies keep her from experiencing things in their full glory. My minor grumpiness is has lowered my optimism and shortened my patience.

Today, the mist increased to a moderate shower. I was working onsite at an event, and we were in the throes of rehearsal. My attention was needed in three places at once. I had to talk on the phone, address issues online, and stay in touch with the production team via an internal com system.

The sound team blasted music over the speakers, people were talking, and a woman came to ask me about name tags…it was just too much. I held my composure (I think), but all I wanted to do was scream.

Once the rehearsals were done and the work day was behind me, I went to dinner with a friend. Even though we were in a crowded restaurant, things seemed slower, less loud. I had one beer and a GREAT burger. After a short walk around the neighborhood, I was ready to call it a night. (This is known as Mother’s Syndrome.)

I walked into my hotel room and sat down. I didn’t turn on the TV; I just sat still. I closed my eyes and started to breathe. I took full breaths that filled my belly, just like they teach you in Yoga class. Five minutes, or maybe 10, passed before I knew it, and I felt good. No mist, no grumpies. Just me.

I know I won’t shake my mood with just five minutes of silence, but it’s a good start.

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