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• Find something positive about what you are doing. As much as we hate paying taxes, and as much as we might disapprove of
way many of our tax dollars are spent, there are some things we are in favor of. So think about roads, or fire department, parks–whatever it is that you feel positive about.
• Look for sensuality in situation. “What!?!” I can hear you say. Notice how things feel. Experience glide of pen over paper as you write those checks. Get into lemon-y fragrance of dish soap you’re using on refrigerator shelves. My husband loves to take trash out early on winter mornings because he stops and looks at stars for a few minutes. (OK, so maybe that’s not a good example. We know my husband is crazy; he married me.)
• Look for humor in situation. Even IRS and their ridiculous, incomprehensible instructions can be funny. I mean, who in their right mind would write like that? Can you imagine having that job? How about that green furry stuff in back of refrigerator? What if it’s a new kind of antibiotic? Play with crazy ideas and ridiculous concepts.
• Use positive, powerful language around chore. Instead of saying “Yuck. I have to take out garbage,” try “Hey. I get to take out garbage.” Substitute “I can” for “I must,” and “I choose” for “I have to.”
• Finally, stop worrying about it. Often, we spend more time dreading and fretting about doing something we dislike than we spend actually doing it. Plus, all that worrying and fussing only reinforces our dislike of job. It’s almost like doing it over and over again in our heads, instead of just doing it once, for real.
So there are a few suggestions on how to change your attitude about those nasty chores. Play around with them until you find one that works for you. Because if we can’t get rid of chores, at least we can change how we feel about them. And there’s no good reason for making ourselves feel miserable.
NOTE: You are welcome to use this article online in electronic newsletters and e-zines as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including "about author" info). If use of this article is desired in print, you must first contact Lynn Cutts at Lynn@ManageYourMuse.com.
Copyright 2005 Lynn Cutts
Chocolate-loving Life Coach Lynn Cutts’ mission is to change the world for the better, one person at a time. At www.ManageYourMuse.com, she shares free tips, articles, games and newsletters to help you realize your dreams. Lynn offers one-on-one coaching, group coaching and self-guided programs to help you create your own boundless life. Lynn is certified by the Coaches Training Institute, and is a member of the International Coaches Federation.
