In 5 years, will this matter?

Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

~Regina Brett

What did you think when you read this quote? I can tell you that when I read it, I thought, “I could probably use this quote and apply it to most of my ‘disasters’ on a regular basis.” Regina Brett is certainly onto something here!

What I like most about this quote is that you can adapt it to fit your own situation, predicament, or dilemma. “In 1 week, will this matter?” “In 2 months, will this matter?” You can choose the duration of time to help you figure out whether or not your “disaster” or reaction to the “disaster” is warranted. Imagine if we could hit the “Pause” button in the middle of an argument with a loved one or co-worker and pose this question to ourselves? I would guess that many arguments could be diffused or caught before they escalated further. 

This “pause” button is like the brakes on your car, slowing down to exercise caution if you sense danger or threat. This quote could be the start of strengthening your internal “braking” muscle. Clear research confirms the brain is like a muscle that can be strengthened and weakened, based on your experience and what you focus on. This is called neuroplasticity (see below for reputable sources to learn more about this topic if you’re curious). In the end, the decision is yours to figure out how much effort you want to put forth towards better managing your day-to-day hassles. Writing this quote on a sticky note or putting it in your phone as reminder could be simple ways to start chipping away at change. What’s the worst that could happen? 

Sources:

Rick Hanson, PhD: Understanding Neuroplasticity - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRvMCIpGdE8&t=1s 

Richie Davidson, PhD - https://centerhealthyminds.org/feature/neuroplasticity