When someone wrongs us, our natural inclination is to get even. The problem is that nothing good ever comes from getting even–it chews up lots of time and energy, puts you in a negative frame of mind and takes your attention away from what’s truly important. In addition, the anger and resentment that go along with getting even can damage your immune system; plus you set yourself up for retaliation. That’s a hefty price to pay for the fleeting rush that you experience when you get even. So, the next time you’re thinking about getting even with someone, think again. Instead, learn what you can from the situation, let go and move on. Several years ago, I came across an anonymous poem that helps me a great deal when I find myself confronted with such situations:
“Don’t make tragedies of trifles,
Don’t shoot butterflies with rifles–
Laugh it off!”
Feedback From a Subscriber
On November 8, a subscriber sent me the following email:
“Ross: I enjoy the positive messages you send me weekly. Today made me think of what a close friend said to me over 20 yearsago……’go for it or for go it.’ There is a lot of truth in that statement. Thanks again.”