You do not have to count to 10

It is cold outside. Raining. It is cold inside too. You're feeling close to miserable. And when someone says something - anything - to you it feels like a cold steel blade cutting through your private space. The old adage is that you have to count to 10 before responding. But you do NOT have to count to 10. All you have to do is THINK FAST BUT THINK TWICE.

Here's how it works:
1. Quickly, think of something that you did well today or are doing well at this moment, something like: you held your response before uttering what's really on your mind, you kept to your senses;
2. Pay yourself a compliment for it: "Good boy/Good girl! - yes I am!"

3. Immediately think of something positive about the person you're responding to. It may not be easy but give it your best shot. - - "Good!"
4. Go the extra step: think about a compliment for that person. You don't have to mention it, just think it.

See, you don't have to give a compliment out loud - you can just think it. After all, 80% of talk is self-talk. And if you can think it you can do it.

So, go ahead. THINK FAST about a compliment to yourself.

That's brilliant! Have a great day!

[The "Hello Me" image is from Inspired Services. Hey, ain't that a great title for a business? "Inspired" - such a good word. Reminds me of you!]