A few months ago I signed up for a workshop. I looked forward to it for weeks, but it now goes on the list of times in my life when I’ve felt the most horrible about myself. There’s a handful of events that are on that list, but it’s been over 25 years since the previous time. As I walked back to my rental car – yes, I traveled for this workshop – I knew a full-blown pity party was on the horizon.
Just for fun, on the way to the airport I thought, what would someone else do or think in this situation? Here’s my list:
What would Jane Austen do? She’d stand back, make keen observations about human nature and create subtle and spot-on character assassinations which she’d then weave into a simple story.
What would (insert the name of your favorite super hero) do? The image of Batman came to mind – Michael Keaton in the opening of the first movie when he dropped the bad guy off the roof saying, “I’m Batman,” while Prince music blasted (OK, throbbed) in the background. Love it!
What would Paris Hilton or Kim Kardashian or (fill in the name of your least favorite reality character) do? They’d say in a whiny voice, it’s not my fault. I’m so rich and beautiful. I don’t understand why no one loves me. Boo hoo.
What would Harry Potter do? He’d suck it up, grit his teeth, and rely on his friends to help him find the strength and resolve to get through it.
What would Harry Houdini do? Disappear – poof!
What would Butch and Sundance do? Jump off a cliff after cracking the best joke in the history of movie dialog (in my opinion). Sundance: I can’t swim. Butch: Are you crazy? Hell, the fall will probably kill you. Sundance: Oh shittttttt...
What would your inner 4 year old do? Burst into tears (OK, I did that in the car) crying elephant tears, wail, and end up with red and puffy eyes. Apologies to my fellow Alaska Airlines flyers.
Finally a couple of days later, I came around to the often-used, but still worthwhile question: what would Oprah do? She’d accept and acknowledge how she feels, but then she’d look for the lesson. I got out my journal and filled pages.
Next time you have a bad or disappointing experience, play this game. Make it fun! Who is your favorite author, superhero, movie character, or other inspiration? Let your imagination and snarky sense of humor run wild. Just remember to end up with Oprah, acknowledge how you really feel and then look for a lesson that you can carry forward.
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