Journal Guide: Identifying Triggers

We all know there are certain things that can trigger us, some more than others. Unraveling the knots of anxiety, anger, and stress can sometimes take a very intentional effort. Here are a few ideas to help us start to recognize patterns.

Make Quick Notes: When you feel any feeling that makes you feel off balance, record it. Write it down on paper, make a digital note, or do a voice recording on your phone. This is the first step, gathering information.

Once you have a weeks worth of data, examine this.

Who: Which people trigger you, it can be hard to admit this, but it's worth examining so you can work through the stress.

What: What events or situations make you angry, jealous, sad, stressed? Write about them in detail, to help you process and identify.

Where: Are there certain places you get more off balanced or negative?

When: Are there certain times of the day you are more easily shaken?

Noting all of these details can help you work more effectively through stress, anger, sadness, and jealousy. Once you have a better understanding of the situation you are one step closer to adjusting and healing. You can use this information in therapy, meditation, or even more journaling.