Do This to Tame Your Inner-Brat

Do you have a rebellious streak? A side of you that doesn’t like to be told what to do? A part that doesn’t follow instructions, whines a lot, gets overwhelmed and confused and perhaps throws tantrums? A side of you that just can’t? I like to refer to this as your inner-brat.

In reality, of course, you probably don’t have two personalities. But you do have a lizard brain which, in its effort to be efficient and keep you safe, offers a lot of thoughts about why you shouldn’t do all those things you want to do to accomplish your goals. This is your inner-brat.

One strategy to get some authority over your brat is to name her. Then observe her tantrums like you would a toddler.

I named mine Marci.

I tell Marci, “I hear you. I know you think we can’t do this because it’s too hard. But settle down. I’m in charge.”

“I know you want ice-cream right now, Marci. It’s not on today’s plan. I’m sorry. You’ll survive. Throw a fit if it makes you feel better.”

“I hear you, Marci. You don’t want to exercise today and you’d much rather stay in bed. I know that new class is new and different but get dressed because we’ve committed to going.”

Like an authoritative parent, let your pre-frontal cortex tell your inner-brat how it’s going to be. Just like your lower brain, your inner-brat means well. She’s just scared and doesn’t like new things.

Tell her to sit quietly. You’ve got this.

P.S. – If you haven’t named your inner-brat, give it a shot and let me know what name you chose.