Take a notebook or phone.

Title it “Annoyances.”

List what’s bothering you, no commentary, just the facts.

Step 2: Preheat Your Mind
Just like a recipe requires preheating the oven, your mind needs preparation before handling an annoyance.

Instructions:

Take 3 deep breaths. Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 2, exhale for 6.

Repeat while visualizing a calm, neutral color—blue or green works best.

Mentally remind yourself: “This annoyance is temporary. I can handle it.”

Scientific Side Note: Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress hormones like cortisol.

Step 3: Add Humor
Whenever possible, inject humor into the situation. This works surprisingly well for both small and recurring annoyances.

Techniques: