Sometimes I react strongly–wildly, even–to the world around me. Those reactions often come from habit. I can meet almost anything my boss says with the same feeling of grievance and skepticism, no matter what it is. And I react the way I usually do when I feel that way. Maybe it’s gossip, or shutting down. Whatever the behavior, it’s usually a default to the way I’ve operated in the past.

The results are predictable. I feel separated from those around me, or I experience other kinds of familiar, painful consequences.

As they say in recovery, if I do what I’ve always done, I’ll get what I’ve always gotten. So I can make more room for serenity in my life by being willing to try something different.

Today I will watch my reactions at work and ask my Higher Power for help to see what I can change. Maybe I can strive for more honesty or patience as I interact with people in my workday. I won’t stuff my feelings, but I’ll be willing to practice a new behavior.