Chortle…A Word for Your Day By Jane Bishop
Chortle: C-H-O-R-T-L-E. Interesting word, right? I discovered this word several years ago in a Reader’s Digest as I was on my way to meet some friends in another state. They picked me up at the airport and on the drive to their house, I simply asked them, “Have you two chortled lately?” The husband looked at his wife kind of quizzically and shrugged saying, “I don’t know…have we?” All of us then chuckled at this statement, and that, funnily enough, is exactly what chortling is! This gleeful chuckle or expression of laughter can be the key to releasing tension and feeling relaxed overall. The ebb and flow of life can be challenging, especially during these current times. The trials and tribulations of everyday
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life can absolutely mount up and it can be hard to find a way out. You may look around at your life and think, “What is there to chortle about?” It’s not always easy to see, especially through the “stuff.” However, those chortle moments are there. It is up to us to find them and enjoy the moment. Each of us has the power to change our attitude and mindset. It’s our choice, and choice is a powerful life skill. When we shift our mindset, the most unexpected opportunity to chortle can be present. I was speaking with a colleague recently who had some medical issues with his shoulder. He shared with me the doctor’s diagnosis: “Your shoulder is grossly unremarkable.” Well, that cascaded into several minutes of laughter and quips! It was what we each needed in that moment! I offer you a challenge: no matter where you are in life – the good, the bad, or the ugly – reflect on times you’ve laughed or chortled. Allow that reflection to be a starting point for your humorous release! In fact, chortle itself is a funny word – so laugh about it! Let it bring a smile to your face and some joy to your soul. Allow yourself to free up brain space and clear out “stuff” to keep going forward. Who knows? Maybe your own “grossly unremarkable” moment will trigger a chortle at just the right time! Jane Bishop is a Positive Interrupter and Leadership Coach. More information at www.janebishop.live.
Conflict Corner Continued from page 10 person. Powerful stuff. Let me be clear. I am not talking about a threatening situation, a stranger’s advance, or anything along those lines. A stranger reaching out through Facebook, Instagram, a text, or a phone call might require ignoring and blocking and avoiding the communication, all Stewart Beau Upshaw to stop it. Certainly, you want toDoctors take the wiseHelton and &prudent steps to protect yourself. However, if the outcome that you desire is to maintain a relationship, choosing avoidance with a brief communication gives both parties a chance to be “in the conversation.” Proactive conflict management. Let it be a way of life. Barbara Bailey is the co-founder and CEO of The Healing Bridge Foundation.
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