Playing and Enjoying the Game of Life

Life is sometimes referred to as a game. Do you know of any game that does not have rules? There are do’s and do not’s that govern what happens on the playing field. Rules add to the enjoyment of the game for participant as well as for spectator.

Boundaries contribute to the freedom and enjoyment of the game. When a line is crossed, play stops. Referees watch for fair play and call a foul when one member is hurt or wrongly inhibited. When a player does not adhere to the rules of the game, problems ensue.

Fair play also applies to life. In non-nurturing environments rules are assumed more than stated. Punishment ensues for disobeying. Individuality is disavowed. Confrontation is avoided. The no-rules rule is extremely stressing and no one can effectively live it.

Determine your play before hand. Think through difficult plays and project your response. Be forearmed to defuse the attack.
· “Thank you for your input, I will consider it.”
· “That is not the way I see it.”
· “Because I choose to.”
· “I will not allow you to treat me that way.”
· “I ask you to (be specific).”
· “I believe that is my decision.”
· “The discussion is over.”
· “I choose to not respond to the accusations.”

Speak, then reinforce. Stating once is enough. The offender did not forget your stance s/he is choosing to ignore it. Reinforce with as few words as possible, and do so in a pleasant, yet firm tone. Firmness reinforces respect for you and pleasantness reinforces respect for the offender. Bring a conclusion by politely changing the subject or leaving the room.

Take a break. We are intelligent beings. We are also emotional beings. And when the emotions take over, thinking takes a holiday. The secret to keeping both in founds is breathing. Slow. Deep. Purposely. Deliberately. Allow incoming oxygen to calm the passion and send blood flow to the brain to re-engage rational thinking. Use it for yourself. Gently give it to your companion. Without fanfare, allow him to take a minute to calm down. Do not demand answers. In heightened emotions, we do not have answers anyway; we only have rationalization and justification.

Are you enjoying the game of life? The more we adhere to the rules of fair play, the more fun it becomes. And always, always, be a good sport about fouls. Remember, rules do not hinder the activity or the athlete.