Do little annoyances keep piling up until you feel overwhelmed and reactive? In this episode, Diana Hill explores why annoyance isn’t just about what’s happening—it’s shaped by your capacity (stress, heat, hunger, sleep) and the story you tell about the incident. Diana shares how noticing her own story with an airline agent, Wade, helped her soften, connect, and respond differently—ultimately increasing her ability to be with what is.

Listen and learn:

• How stressors like heat, hunger, and poor sleep reduce your capacity and increase irritation
• Why the “story” you tell can turn a small incident into a bigger threat.
• How separating from others fuels annoyance—and connection can shift it

Suggested Next Episode:

You can also enjoy Diana’s related Bonus Meditation: Annoyance

Related Resources:

• Subscribe to Diana’s Substack
• Order and Claim Bonuses from Diana’s new book Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most
• Learn from Diana at an upcoming event

About Diana Hill:

Dr. Diana Hill, a modern psychologist, international trainer, and expert on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), is redefining what it means to live with vitality. As a leader in psychological flexibility, she empowers individuals to reclaim and focus their energy in meaningful, sustainable ways. Drawing from the most current psychological research and contemplative practices, Diana bridges science with real-life application to help people cultivate resilience and well-being.She is the host of the Wise Effort podcast and author of several books, including Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most, I Know I Should Exercise But…, The Self-Compassion Daily Journal, and ACT Daily Journal. Her insights have been featured on NPR, The Wall Street Journal, Mindful, Woman’s World, Real Simple, The Wise Brain Bulletin, and Psychology Today, among others.Known for her ability to translate complex psychological concepts into practical, actionable steps, Diana makes personal growth accessible and inspiring.

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