Humans are wired for fight or flight. When we get into difficulties, we run or retreat, invariably holding tension and negative energy inside. That residual trauma is toxic. It gnaws at us and weighs us down, sparking thoughts and actions that do not coincide with our best selves.
I’ve seen ducks get into scuffles by a pond and as soon as their differences are sorted they ruffle up their feathers and paddle on. I do well when I act like a duck. Letting go of the anger or bad thoughts I’ve manifested after an argument helps me recover equilibrium faster. Like the athlete that double faults but then strips out the past performance and aces the next test, we do well to release anxiety sooner rather than later. It helps us conserve valuable energy for times when we need it. Fight, forgive, learn — this helps us recover faster and paddle on.