So cliche, but I pick negativity. That includes hearing the mumblings of other people’s petty comments under their breath. Perhaps I’m too sensitive but not everything needs to be a sarcastic joke at someone’s expense. Some jokes can end up alienating someone accidentally. If you notice it, just apologize to them in private, especially if you saw that person make a cringy face or excuse themselves for the restroom right after something’s said at the table. Wouldn’t hurt, right?
Growing up, having “tough skin” was applauded which gave way to lowering assertiveness on the priority list of skills to practice and gain. Defending myself would’ve been taken as disrespectful or talking back to someone. Then, in another group, it would be taken as being a “doormat”. Which is right? Who knows? I guess you have to be there and know the people involved to understand the situation.
Sometimes, history can come into play too. When someone gets too comfortable and assumes everyone gets their sense of humor, they can think everybody’s fair game. Not the case at all. So please…let’s observe others’ facial expressions and body language. It’ll help so much in the long run for someone who attempts to let things roll off their shoulder but actually feels awkward, but doesn’t want to cause tension and draw attention.
What about you? What do you want to let go?
@BonzColoring 