As a frequent flyer, I get to observe the behaviors of other flyers on a consistent basis. It’s a fascinating experience and can either restore one’s faith in humanity or have you consider living in the woods with your favorite pet. Here’s the interesting aspect of delayed flights, none of us have any control over it. None.
Some people go right into the “whoa is me” attitude. It sounds like this: “Of course my flight is delayed. This always happens to me! This airline stinks and I’m going to go and complain to the staff.” They proceed to make everyone around them miserable and they continue their complaining even when the flight takes off. If you sit next to these people, put your headphones on immediately.
Others get really, really angry. They go to the service desk and scream at the airline employees. They phone loved ones and complain bitterly about how bad the airline is, how they’ll never fly with that airline again, and they also spread their misery to all of those around them.
It’s totally understandable that people are frustrated and upset about delayed flights. Sometimes it ruins plans, causes people to miss connecting flights, and generally lead to some logistical headaches. However, those same miserable attitudes don’t change the outcome of the situation, but rather just make the situation even more miserable.
Cultivating A Positive Attitude Toward Adversity
The most reasonable reactions that I see sound something like this, “This is really frustrating. I’m annoyed. Okay, what can I control here and how can I let go of what I can’t control?” Because let’s face it, this response is the only reasonable choice in the long run. Otherwise, you will make a challenging situation even more so. I’m also pretty sure that you won’t get any preferential treatment when you show up with a horrendous attitude.
Next time things don't go as planned ask yourself, What can I control here and how can I let go of what I can’t control? #frustration #adversity #attitude Click To TweetEvery once in a while, I even observe someone looking at a flight delay as an interesting opportunity. They might go get a chair massage, or a sit-down lunch, or even a pedicure. (Check your local airport for availability!) Some airports have a yoga room, all airports have lots of chocolate and alcohol and all airports have great people watching.
Of course, the airport isn’t the only place to take this attitude test. You have the opportunity to take it almost daily when you check your own reaction to situations that are completely out of your control. How do you do? Do you make yourself somewhat crazy with upset or do you find a way to manage the situation that leads you to feeling just fine? Only you have the ability to pass this test. How do you plan on doing it?
Love,
Lisa Kaplin Psy. D. PCC