Build emotional awareness so you can respond, not react.

There are days when my emotional wires get crossed: things that usually make me happy don't, or I get angry at someone or something and later realize that what I was really upset about had nothing to do with the situation at hand.

Over time, I have become much better at controlling my reactions in these moments, and much of that improvement has come from repeatedly checking in with my mood.

When thinking about our mood, it can be helpful to start with the physical: Am I sitting comfortably? Am I hungry? Tired? Awareness of your feelings is helpful information. Whether or not you are sitting comfortably isn't good or bad—you simply notice it, adjust your position if you like, then move on.

Next, bring your attention to your emotions with the same non-judgmental approach you gave your physical state. Am I angry? Lonely? Acknowledge these feelings for a moment.

DailyInventory.net helps you become aware of your moods without any self-recrimination, allowing for a more honest and accurate personal inventory.

To learn more, see The Science Behind Self Awareness Inventories.