'EMBRACE DISCOMFORT'
How To Stop Worrying If Somebody Is Mad At You, According To A Psychologist
Experts say we should just rip off the Band-Aid and express our discomfort — followed up by a discussion about the situation.
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The Lede
Dr. Carolyn Rubenstein, a psychologist and wellness expert, explains that anxiety about someone being mad at you often stems from caring about the person. However, if you genuinely believe you've made a mistake and someone is upset with you, Dr. Rubenstein recommends reaching out to the person directly. It might be uncomfortable, but it's an opportunity for vulnerability and connection. Here's what to do otherwise.
Key Details
- Instead of creating worst-case scenarios in your mind, Dr. Rubenstein says consider the concrete details of the situation.What do you know to be true? Focus on that to help balance your perspective.
- Ask yourself why you're thinking this way. Pinpointing the trigger, such as an unanswered text or a busy day, can help you understand and potentially stop the spiral of negative thoughts.
- Practice grounding techniques to stay in the present moment. This can help you regain a logical perspective and your focus.