It is easy to let emotions take hold and prevent you from moving forward. Having a dog that runs anxiety induced circles has taught me that breaking the cycle of our emotions requires a lot of effort and different techniques. It is important to take the steps when you find yourself running in circles if you want to keep moving forward.

As the early-release week wrapped up, we were exhausted, but had survived. However, I was disappointed, feeling as if I had failed to move the need or meet my expectations for the week. It was a good reminder that we need to calibrate expectations to reality.

When you have reached the state of overwhelm hit the pause button. Continuing to go in the vicious circle never solved anything and will heighten your emotional reaction with each spin.