I've been thinking a lot about bicycling lately. Mostly because I recently helped out my brother who was competing in a 12-hour mountain bike race, but also because I've noticed myself experiencing road rage toward the cyclists with whom I share the road.
Me? Road rage? What's that all about? I'm a nice person. I'm all for the environment and eco-friendly actions. Why so hostile? Truth be told, I'm afraid of hitting one of them with my car. Terrified. Their elbow hitting my sideview mirror; them taking a spill, me veering to avoid catastrophe. Or worse--a right-hand turn, bad timing, and a catapulting body. Broken bones and ambulances.
So, when I'm driving beside a cyclist and trying to pass them so that I can get where I need to be a minute faster, I curse them. Stupid bike people and your stupid shorts and stupid helmets. Get the *#$& out of my way. Occasionally, I displace some of my vitriol on the state, wishing our narrow New England roads had bike lanes or that there were fewer cars on the road. But it's usually the former.
As a corporate communicator, I'm always encouraging writers to put themselves in the recipient's shoes. How does the cyclist feel sandwiched between an SUV and a curb? Is he worried about his safety? Cursing at the cars on the road? Using that information, is there a better way to approach the situation?
Instead of thinking angry thoughts, why not try something more kind and affirmative. Something like: "Hey there, biker person. Look at you doing good for the environment--and your health. Way to go! Hope your travels are happy and safe. Please don't forget to use your hand signals, okay? Take care!"
I never curse all those roadkill squirrels for being so dumb as to run out into traffic. Instead I name them and offer up a little silent eulogy. So, how about a few kind words for that guy riding his bike down School Street with all the cars?
The thoughts that fill our heads are not unlike the contents of the hallway closet. Keep things orderly and all is well. But once things start to get out of control, everything else goes sour. A little mindfulness will take care of that.
What sets you reeling on a tirade of negative thoughts? What quick fix can you make to turn around your perspective on the situation?
_________________________________________________________________________ © 2009 Good Karma Housekeeping. Making the space--mentally and physically--to live happily ever after. (Image from National Lampoon's European Vacation. Say it with me now: Rrrrrrusty.)
