Are there days when you feel a little rough around the edges? Are there days when little things seem to rub the wrong way? Are there days when you are quicker to snap than others? I have been having a few of those days recently. Okay, more than I care to admit. I have noticed that there are a few things that leave me feeling irritated.

1. No chocolate in the house
2. Dishes left undone
3. Others not having enough time for me
4. Children bickering
5. Continual demands on my time.

Actually the list could be endless. I’m sure you have your own that you would add. Right? Minor irritation in itself is not a big deal. It usually leaves quickly without serious ramifications. We have to recognize that irritation has more to do with ourselves than others.

Irritation does require care. Without care, irritation becomes a frequent response. Without care, I can find myself irritated at every thing and everyone. Without care it can easily turn into resentment. It is so easy to let negative thoughts and emotions spiral downward. Then our bodies become flooded with negative hormones and it becomes a difficult spiral to stop. Then I find myself starting to resent those I love. I know then that it’s time to do some self examination.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6 NIV).

I have found that there are a few things that can help me rid myself of that irritated  feeling.

1. Thank and praise God. I know this sounds a bit trite but it actually works. It begins to change the negative hormones into positive ones. Really. Try it.
2. Give yourself time for play, yes play. Our mind, body and spirit need play. It invigorates us and helps with those good hormones. This is my biggest challenge. I do not play enough.
3. Sleep 7-9 hours a night. Lack of sleep throws the entire body off track. I covet my sleep. I work very hard to make sure I get 8 hours. It’s not pretty if I don’t. I am guaranteed to be easily irritated if I’m short on sleep.
4. Voice what needs to be voiced, but not when you’re irritated. Don’t bury real issues. The dead will rise again. Anything I leave unsaid, always comes back around and each time around it gets worse. Share, in love what you need to share. Everyone will be better for it.

These four simple steps will save you aggravation. It has worked for me. The key is to catch the irritation before it turns into resentment. Resentment becomes a bigger issue to deal with and uncoil.  Will you join me in trying these simple steps to deal irritation?  You won’t regret it.

How do you deal with irritation? Share here and we can encourage each other.