Just the facts, ma'am

During the month of January, we had a construction zone in our basement. It has been so exciting (and loud) to see the transformation from cement floors and walls to a family room, guest room, laundry room and bathroom. The contractors were fantastic. They finished on time and on budget.  

The very last detail was to have the carpet installed. As soon as that was in, I was ready for an HGTV-style decorating frenzy. I had purchased everything - the furniture, the art, even the throw pillows - so the basement would be 100% perfect by Superbowl Sunday. 

The carpet install day came . . . and no one showed up. After a few phone calls I found out that my order had been cancelled. Turns out the carpet I had picked was out of stock. So they cancelled. Without calling me. 

My thoughts went something like this: 

💭This is insane 

💭I’m furious 

💭OF COURSE THIS HAPPENED on the very last step 

💭I knew this couldn’t be this easy 

💭Now I can’t have a superbowl party (Ha! Like I was going to do that anyway!! #Covid)

💭My whole plan is ruined 

💭How dare they treat a customer like that 

And so on. My brain can be very dramatic. To save myself, I quickly used one of my favorite tools, which I want to share with you today. 

What’s the tool? 

It’s called “Just the Facts”. It requires you to re-tell a story with ONLY factual information, leaving out all emotions and opinions. 

For example:  

I ordered carpet. I found out that it’s now out of stock. 

That version allowed me to calm down, and then solve the problem. I called the salesperson, asked him to bring over samples, selected a new carpet, and it was installed two days later. 

Done. 

Try re-telling a story that you’re upset about with facts only. It will rightsize the problem, and set you up to solve it.   

❤  Michelle 

 PS Need help getting your dramatic brain to focus on the facts? I can help!  Set up a time to chat with me about 1 on 1 coaching.