Small Potatoes: The Power of Perspective

When I was 18, a therapist gave me a piece of advice that has stuck with me ever since. He told me to carry around an index card with the words “small potatoes” written on it. At first, I was puzzled. How could two seemingly insignificant words help me navigate the ups and downs of life? But as I grew older, I realized the profound wisdom behind this simple suggestion.

The Origin of “Small Potatoes”

The phrase “small potatoes” is often used to describe something that is trivial or unimportant. It serves as a reminder that not everything that feels monumental in the moment will matter in the grand scheme of things. This perspective can be incredibly liberating, especially when we’re caught up in the stresses of everyday life.

The Stress-Busting Index Card

Carrying around an index card with “small potatoes” written on it became a tangible reminder to keep things in perspective. Whenever I felt overwhelmed by a situation, I would pull out the card and take a moment to reassess. Was this problem really as big as it seemed? Would it matter in a week, a month, or a year? More often than not, the answer was no.

Real-Life Applications of Small Potatoes

1. Work Stress: Deadlines, presentations, and meetings can sometimes feel like the end of the world. But remembering “small potatoes” can help you realize that most work-related stressors are manageable and often temporary.
2. Social Situations: Whether it’s a disagreement with a friend or an awkward social interaction, these moments can feel all-consuming. The “small potatoes” mindset helps you see that these incidents are usually just blips on the radar of life.
3. Personal Goals: When striving for personal achievements, it’s easy to get discouraged by setbacks. Reminding yourself that these setbacks are “small potatoes” can keep you motivated and focused on the bigger picture.

Why It Works

The “small potatoes” mindset is effective because it shifts your focus from the immediate stressor to the broader context of your life. This shift in perspective can reduce anxiety and help you approach problems more calmly and rationally. It’s a way of training your brain to recognize that not all issues are as critical as they first appear.

Implementing Your Own “Small Potatoes” Strategy

• Create Your Card: Find a small index card or piece of paper and write “small potatoes” on it. Keep it in your wallet, purse, or phone case where you can easily access it.
• Use It Regularly: Whenever you start to feel stressed or overwhelmed, take out the card and spend a few moments reflecting on the situation. Ask yourself if this issue will matter in the long run.
• Share the Wisdom: Encourage friends and family to adopt the “small potatoes” mindset. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that can help anyone manage stress more effectively.

Incorporating the “small potatoes” mindset into your daily life can have a profound impact on your stress levels and overall well-being. It’s a reminder that most of the things we worry about are not as significant as they seem. By keeping things in perspective, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and resilience. So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, just remember: it’s all small potatoes.