Do you have problems in your life? If so, and if you have quite a few of them, you can try choosing one to start with. And not just choosing it, but also applying three clever techniques to it, step by step:

1. Understand, accept, and then step back. Look at the problem calmly, as if from the outside. You can have a dialogue with your ‘I’ like this: “Yes, I see my difficult situation. It’s not easy, but so what? Practically all problems in the world can be solved, and this one is no exception.” By applying this first clever technique, you will be able to both accept the difficulty and distance yourself from it at the same time.
2. Rename the obstacle. Try to change your automatic negative assessment of any sudden obstacle. For example, call it not a “problem,” but a difficult yet interesting task — a kind of challenge. From this perspective, think about what solutions there might be to this tricky task. In other words, with the help of this second clever technique, you can truly change your perception, turning an unpleasant difficulty into a daring and exciting challenge.
3. Shift your focus to what you want instead. Look closely at the problem, then move your attention to the outcome you desire. Ask yourself: what exactly would be a good replacement for this difficulty? What specifically do you want to appear in your life instead of it? In other words, what pleasant thing would you like to see in your life instead of the current unpleasantness? Using this third clever technique, you can shift your focus in the direction you need.

So, here are three clever strategies for you today. If necessary, choose any one you like and put it into practice. Yes, it may require some thinking, but our peace of mind and emotional stability are definitely worth it, aren’t they?