3 Tips for Grumpy Days

Maybe it’s just me.

But some days I’m just more irritable and grouchy. My typical optimist mood has been replaced with a pessimistic outlook that questions the intentions of some and the sanity of others. Everything is getting on my nerves. The shirt I wanted to wear was dirty, the kids spilt the cereal, my sneakers are still wet, the traffic is out of control, the barista was rude, the dude sitting beside me smells like egg salad. I hate egg salad.

On days like this I wish there was a dislike button on Facebook – because I would thumbs-down EVERYTHING!

So, for those of us who struggle with the occasional Grumpy Day:

 

See the Danger

Grumpy days are contagious. Your spouse, kids, & co-workers might be in a good mood – until they come across your cranky face. Suddenly what once looked to be a pleasant day has been clouded by your presence. You’ve not only ruined their day but now they view you differently. When they see you coming they recoil because you are the joy-stealer, the thief of happiness, Mister Grumpy Pants.

Proverbs 29:22 An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.

 Here we see that a grumpy spirit not only stirs up conflict where there was peace but also encourages more sin. When they see you grumpy, they return your grumpiness with more grumpiness. Thus begins the endless cycle of irritability.

 

Don’t Speak

Proverbs 21:23 Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

 I’ve found that it’s better to keep my mouth closed on days like this. It’s like Thumper’s mother said so many years ago, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothin’ at all.” So, slap a smile on that mug and when others cross your path who “obviously” have it out for you, keep your mouth shut. You will be irritated because you are irritable. Expect it to happen, just don’t respond.

This day will pass without memory, but if you lose your temper and let someone have it – that moment will define you. Those who see your temper will not remember you having a “grumpy day” but will remember you as an angry person.

 James 1:19 Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.

 On these days, listen more, speak less, and reject anger.

Get Some Rest

For me, there is a connection between grumpy days and lack of sleep. If I am not getting enough rest then I am more likely to respond in anger. If you’re like me let me suggest two little equations that might get you back on track.

Solitude + Jesus = Soul Rest.

Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

You might be surprised what 20 minutes in prayer, Bible study, and praise can do to rest the anxious soul.

8 Hours + Sleep = Body Rest.

Psalm 127:2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.

If you’re unable to accomplish all you “need” to accomplish within 16 hours a day, you might be trying to accomplish more than God ever intended. In doing so you are putting at risk your health and your relationships.

So, maybe it is just me… but I doubt it. If you too struggle with the occasional Grumpy Day I want to hear from you. Please Comment in the section below, Like Pin or Heart, and definitely SHARE and RETWEET.

Let me end by saying that I HATE Daylight Savings Time.

That is all.