The other day, I was talking to one of my girlfriends about the various opportunities that have presented themselves in the dating world over the past few months, and it was really funny when I mentioned a younger man, she instantly perked up and leaned in to warn me, “watch out- those young ones are like kryptonite.” I laughed out loud, and then assured her that I’m actually well aware of my kryptonite– brainiacs in their 40’s with light eyes, who clearly work out and dress well. For someone that always seems to have something to say, I promise you a few of these guys have rendered me speechless at first glance. Luckily, I recover quickly.
Whatever your kyptonite is, I encourage you to learn to be really aware of it, and then do your best to not let your emotions cloud your judgment. Life is about learning to discipline your emotions, unless you want to lead a completely chaotic life that always makes you feel out of control. If you feel this way, it is because you have relinquished too much power to others, and you have not figured out a way to rein in your emotions. This is not a skill they teach in school, it’s something you have to learn over time with experience. Sadly, some never learn this lesson.
Too many people yield to the temptation of instant gratification without thinking through the long term consequences. Instead of getting caught up in the moment, buy yourself some time to think through the cause and effect of a particular action. Not enough people do this, and that is exactly what I then have to deal with every day at work– cleaning up major messes, and let me just add that I’m not a miracle worker, and some really unfortunate results can never be undone.
Think (not with the lower part of your body) before you react to something or act on an impulse. There is a lot of temptation out there now, and a booty call is just a click or text message away for most. Just remind yourself that for every action, there will be a reaction. Do a cost/benefit anaylsis, and ask yourself seriously, does the good outweigh the bad?
Each choice we make will come with some loss, that is just a fact of life. But what you need to be able to do is live with the choices you make, each and every day– and remember, you don’t operate in a vacuum, others will also be impacted by your choices, and loved ones should be part of your equation.
Get to know your kryptonite, own it, and then find a way to immunize yourself from stupidity.
By Regina A. DeMeo, Esq.
