It seems there might be some truth to our attitude playing a big role in how we can enjoy even a seemingly uncomfortable situation.
Case in point. One week solo visit to in-laws place in Kerala.
Background - In the past 3 years of marriage, I have made these visits mostly as an item on the checklist and always along with husband. There have been several points of discomfort. Language problem, overwhelmingly non-veg cuisine, lack of outdoor options and, totally different culture being the prominent ones.
This time, something was different right from the outset. Much to my surprise, I initiated this visit and fixed dates, making it a week-long visit as compared to usual 2-3 day ones. I was least concerned if husband could join in. If he could, it would be a cherry on the cake but I was feeling good enough about doing it solo.
I ended up doing the visit on my own and it turned out to be the nicest visit of them all !!!!
Why ?????
- The weather was absolutely delightful. Picture a Delhite from 44 degree celsius environs stepping into rainy Calicut in a peaceful house with lush greenery.
- My mom in law was (is) an angel, spending quality time with me yet giving me lots of space of my own letting me catch up with work and reading.
- I am expecting, enjoying good health in my 2nd trimester and, received lots of pampering from everyone around
- My 4 yr old brother in law (yes, no typo there) was exceedingly generous in letting me play as much super mario on his playstation as I wanted. His only gentle admonishment - "Amai, you want to play only super mario all the time. I like power ranger samurai !"
- I had absolutely zero tension on my mind w.r.t day to day household things. Everything was taken care of
It was possibly due to one or many of these reasons.
But something tells me that the real reason I had a great time is because I came with a positive attitude, looking forward to the trip and confident of having a good time. Everything else somehow fell into place after that.
The right attitude might be worth a try, no ?
P.s. This post is inspired by a charming little book by Alexander McCall Smith's with the same title, recommended recently by a friend . It seems that Scots believe that while rain is a constant menace in the lives of the Scottish, people's happiness in life is determined by "the right attitude to rain" :)
