My computer and I have a relationship.  We understand each other, she helps me and makes my life flow, she's my baby...but sometimes that baby acts like a toddler having a tantrum.  Digging her heels in and freezing up on me when I'm on a deadline or "hiding" important documents in an endless stream of folders leading to more folders leading to more folders.  

It all feels very similar to the discussions my son and I used to have when he was younger "Where did you hide my keys!?" Only to be met with big surprised looking eyes and "What keys?"

So I love my computer, but there are times...I think you know what I mean ;)  Those times when all you can do is click the mouse 500 times, angrily type lskdjflaskdjflksdlkfjsdlkjsldkl;sdkfjsldfjksdfklj, or yell "AHHHH!" at the top of your lungs making the guy sitting next to you at Starbucks very uncomfortable.

I've found that in those situations, much like similar situations with my 5 year old, it's best to stop, take a deep breath, and and meet your distraught loved one with a calm, logical mind.  Easier said than done...am I right?!  So when you feel like throwing your computer out the window, try this quick exercise to take it all down a notch and make friends with your computer again:

• Sit back in your chair and close your eyes (or better yet get up for a short walk, just leave out the closing your eyes part)
  
• Start paying attention to your breath.  Don't change it in any way, just notice it.
  
• See if you can feel your breath right at the tip of your nose.
  
• After a few breaths at the tip of your nose, follow your breath down into your throat and feel it there.
  
• Then, when it feels right, follow your breath down into your chest noticing your chest rise on the inhale and sink on the exhale. 
  
• And finally follow your breath down into your belly.  Stay here for a bit, feeling your breath in your belly, feeling your belly rise and fall.  When you're ready, slowly open your eyes and head back to your computer refreshed and ready to handle whatever comes your way, woo hoo!
  

Creativity and Joy, 
Erin