Emotion · Anger family
Frustration
noun
The tension that builds when effort keeps meeting a block — when you are trying and it is not working.
How it shows up in the body
Restless hands, sighing, tight shoulders, a short fuse, the urge to throw or quit.
What it is telling you
Your plan and your reality do not match. Either the approach needs to change, the expectation needs to change, or you need a break.
The urge — and the choice
To force it harder or walk away for good. The choice is to pause, adjust one variable and try again.
One thing to try
Name the exact block in one sentence. Then name one thing you can change and one thing you cannot.
Practice it: Long-exhale breathing.
Words you can use
I’m frustrated because I keep trying and it isn’t working. Can we look at this a different way?
Read more: Self-management
