Step 2 - Let's make a note
Grab that pen, unleash your thoughts, and give those feelings a voice. Liberating, right? Holding onto feelings can be like carrying rocks in your mental backpack—let’s lighten that load.
- Here’s the drill: Record what you’re feeling at the moment. Be specific. If you know the ‘why‘ behind the emotional rollercoaster, spill the ink on that too. Maybe it’s the aftermath of a heated argument, the nerves before a social encounter, or the excitement bubbling up for an upcoming holiday.
- For example, I am feeling excited because I have a holiday in the diary next week. Or I am feeling anxious because I have to go to a work event and I do not know anyone there.
- Now, why is this ‘why‘ crucial? It’s your roadmap. Knowing the trigger opens doors to other feelings and memories, like a series of interconnected chambers in your mind.
- Once your emotions are inked on paper, categorise them. I usually toss them into two baskets: Current Affairs or Past Memories. Current Affairs? Recent events that refuse to leave your mental stage cause a traffic jam in your head. Past memories? Well, we’ll dive into that territory later.
- Past memories are things that happened some time ago, which are detailed in the Past memories section.
- Oh, and don’t forget gratitude. We’ll delve deeper into this in a future blog, but for now, scribble down things you’re thankful for. Little joys count. Studies even show it’s a mood-booster—like a sprinkle of magic dust on your well-being. For instance, waking up each day, having your health intact, and the company of friends, family, or a special someone. Bethany Fulton’s insights on The Benefits of Gratitude are worth exploring—boosting immunity, enhancing mental well-being, and nurturing relationships.
Further reading: to know more about the benefits of gratitude check out this article: The Benefits of Gratitude and How to Get Started, which provides you with more insight into this practice.
