I'm a duck

There is a famous expression, also known as ‘The Duck Test’... If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck. I have recently been told that I don't let things go, I easily let things get to me, I hold onto negative situations, allowing those situations to ruin my day, week, or month. If this was the opinion of only one person than maybe I could let it go; water off a ducks back (😂) but it's not. The people closest to me share this viewpoint. I don't feel this way about myself which is why I was surprised to hear this information. How can I work on a problem I didn't know I had? I’m either in denial or completely oblivious. I don't want the people around me to fear my response to them or to shy away from coming to me. I especially don't want communication to be an issue with family, friends, or co-workers.

My plan, moving forward, is to be mindful of my reactions and maybe less liberal with all my emotions. There are plenty of folks who bury every feeling with no explanation or understanding of the root cause. I was always proud of being able to express my thoughts; which is never a bad thing when it comes to love, affection, admiration, flattery or joy. On the flip side of the coin, the everyday crap like frustration, stress, annoyance, grumpiness or worry are the things we often suppress. Some of this could be chalked up to PMS; I get a bad case of it for at least 2 days every 28-day cycle but I’m being told it’s more like I am reactive 28 days a month and maybe easygoing for 2. I would hate to think I am out-going, fun-loving and bubbly to everyone that I DON'T deal regularly. With some practice and self-awareness, I'll find a proper balance; until then, there are two options: love me or don’t love me.