This was an important lesson for me in my quest to reduce my stress. The severe family dysfunction I experienced as a child turned me into an angry young adult who liked to blame others for everything: my boss, my parents, family, and friends. Fortunately, I discovered a 12-step program called Adult Children of Alcoholic and Dysfunctional Families (ACoA) which taught me to take responsibility for my own actions and become my own loving parent.1 I have been an active member of this program since 1990.
I’ve also been inspired by Regina Hartley’s presentation about Scrappers. Scrappers reframe childhood Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as Post Traumatic Success Decision. They are driven by the belief that the only person they can change is themselves. They figure if they can survive their upbringing, the challenges of business are a piece of cake.2
Most everyone has a story of a struggle to share. Some people define themselves by it; others act in spite of it. The important thing to remember is that your past will only be your future if you carry it there.
You can take action at any time to change your attitude, especially if you ask yourself this question: “Is there anyone on the planet having it worse than me right now?”
Take your answer to heart, pick yourself back up, and notice your outlook improving and your stress level reducing.
- Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization – The Solution
- Hartley, R. – Why the Best Hire Might Not Have the Perfect Resume
