Just stop it.

Sometimes it’s easy to remember I have a choice.

And sometimes I just can’t see beyond the black cloud.

The black cloud created by me.

I’ve been stomping around wearing a black cloud like a hat for a long day now.

Same old same old. When I tune into radio self-pity (run by a yammering committee of never satisfied and always judgmental monkeys), I’m committing to only seeing the black cloud. Yup, I’m making a choice. I’m choosing to extend my stay by ruminating on whatever it is I’ve decided is causing this sh*t!

How do I forget over and over again that the sun’s still there, no matter how black the cloud? Amazing, right?

Sometimes I get led back to myself, and back to where I can see the light, without even thinking about it. I’ll remember to — in the words of my friend Nina — turn away from the darkness and turn to something else. Something I like to do. Something kind and loving.

In other words, to just stop it.

Make art. Make food. Take a nap. Take a walk. Call a friend. It’s so simple and so easy to forget.

On days like today, I like to (need to?) get a more direct reminder, like this prescription for getting out from under your black cloud from Bob Newhart.

Just stop it. You’re welcome. 🙃

#lifelonglearning #juststopit

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I’m Sue Kearney, founder of the Lifelong Learning Lab.

I encourage and guide women in the third third of life who want to stay inspired, be in flow, and be fully expressed, so that they can enjoy their days more and stress less — despite social norms and the realities of aging.