Bugs, Windshields and Strong Shoulders – Maintaining Perspective

The air in central Texas is filled with Plecia Nearctica.

Say what?

Ever heard of a “lovebug?” The one I’m talking about is the furthest thing from romantic.

Although they don’t bite or sting, they are more of a nuisance than words can describe. Even after all the cars and trucks on the road take out millions – there are still millions more! Drivers must frequently wash their windshield just to be able to see and I’m reminded of the great line from Mary Chapin Carpenter’s song:

“Sometimes you’re the windshield, sometimes you’re the bug.”

Is this not the MOST descriptive metaphor that everyone can relate to?! At some point in our lives we’ve all had that thought…ok, maybe not in those exact words but I’m sure you get the point.

I hope you’ve got solid techniques and tools in place to help you gracefully move forward during those difficult times. Keeping perspective and a sense of humor is vital, as are some tried and true practices on which you can rely.

Here are reminders of three simple actions you can take to maintain perspective when you are in a “lovebug on the windshield” season:

1. Spend time with a child, or with a senior citizen – preferably both. Probably little explanation is needed for this one…conversations with either are instant perspective adjusters.
2. Talk with someone who has been in your current situation and solved their problem. It is important to not spend a lot of time with someone who only offers you sympathy. Sympathy is fine in small doses, like five minutes on the phone with a friend and then draw a boundary. Again, you need to keep perspective and move into problem-solving mode, not spiral down the woe-is-me tunnel.
3. Exercise your shoulders. This has both figurative and literal implications. While you are physically strengthening your shoulders you can remind yourself, “I’ve got strong shoulders and I can carry this load.” Here is the exercise suggested by Solutions Physical Therapy in Alexandria, VA:

• Hold your elbows at your side with your arm in a 90-degree angle.
• Hold a loose fist with your thumbs pointed up.
• Rotate your fist so your thumbs are pointing out to your sides.
• Keeping your elbows at your side, move your forearm out, as if opening a newspaper until you feel a gentle stretch.

I hope you find these tips helpful. As always, I love hearing your thoughts and feedback.

Gigi