I recently read the most helpful advice in a book that my social worker friend recommended. (She always has the wisest and best advice, and this book did not disappoint). From Loving What Is, by Byron Katie:
I can find only three kinds of business in the universe: mine, yours, and G-d’s. (…Anything that’s out of my control, your control, and everyone else’s control — I call that G-d’s business).
Much of our stress comes from mentally living out of our own business. When I think, “You need to get a job, I want you to be happy, you should be on time, you need to take better care of yourself,” I am in your business. When I’m worried about earthquakes, floods, war, or when I will die, I am in G-d’s business…
If you are living your life and I am mentally living your life, who is here living mine? We’re both over there. Being mentally in your business keeps me from being present in my own.
Sometimes when I have a moment of intense worry about the future (which happens from time to time), I try to remind myself, “That’s G-d’s business.” I also try this when I’m worrying too much about other people’s decisions. I find this reminder to be really helpful and effective!
Do you think this is helpful to keep in mind? What else helps you deal with stressful thoughts?
