First, when you wake up in the morning and feel a bit down, start your day with positive self - talk. Remind yourself of all the good things in your life. During your commute, if it's noisy and chaotic, use the mindfulness skill. Focus on your breath or the sensations around you. At home, if you've had an argument, instead of getting more worked up, go for a short walk outside. It's a free coping skill that can clear your head. And if you're feeling creative but also stressed, start journaling. Write down your thoughts, it can be a great release. All these free coping skills from the social story can be easily integrated into daily life to help manage emotions and stress.
It can be applied by using it as a conversation starter. For example, you can share a 'free emotions social story' with your friends or family and then discuss the emotions involved.
One free coping skill could be deep breathing. Just take slow, deep breaths in and out, which can calm your nerves. Another is positive self - talk. Remind yourself of your strengths and that you can get through tough situations. Also, taking a short walk outside to get some fresh air is a great free coping skill.
It can be applied by simply being aware of others. For example, at a coffee shop, let the person behind you in a big hurry go first.
One way could be related to competition. Just like lobsters compete for territory, we can compete fairly in our jobs or studies. For example, strive to be the best in a project.
The hard - work aspect can be applied by being diligent in our tasks. Whether it's studying for an exam or doing household chores, we should put in the effort as a baker does in making bread. And in terms of attention to detail, when we're writing an important email or planning an event, we should double - check everything just like a baker measures ingredients precisely.
We can apply the 'big rocks story' by first identifying our 'big rocks' like exercise, study time. Then schedule them first in our daily routine.
In social gatherings, this social story can be applied. Let's say at a party. People can remember the 'free i can wait' idea. 'Free' here can mean being free to have a good time without being pushy. And 'I can wait' can apply when waiting for food to be served or for others to join a conversation. It helps in creating a more harmonious social environment.
In daily life, the concept can be applied by being more open and approachable. Listen to others' stories without judgment. For instance, at work, instead of just focusing on tasks, take time to get to know your colleagues on a personal level. Share a laugh or a coffee break. It can also be applied in the neighborhood. When new neighbors move in, go over and introduce yourself like a friend would, offer help if needed. This helps create a friendly and harmonious community.
We can apply it by being more aware of those around us who may be 'drowning' metaphorically. For example, if a colleague is struggling with a work task, offer help like we would to the drowning man.
In relationships, we can apply it by not being too self - centered. The gingerbread man was only concerned about himself escaping. In a relationship, we need to think about the other person too. If we are too self - assured and don't consider our partner's feelings, it could lead to problems. For example, always assuming our ideas are the best without listening to our partner is like the gingerbread man's overconfidence.