Protect Your Mood

            Have you ever had a day when you had an off day and cannot pin point where it is coming from? Maybe you had a conversation with a friend that brought your energy down or your boss was having a tough day and was more critical in their approach than usual. Perhaps, you got flipped off while driving or the lady in the check out line was cramping your style. All of these things add to the levels of stress around you and all of a sudden impact your mood. You are now having a, “bad” day. The next time that occurs, ask yourself, “Am I having a bad day or are the people around me having a bad day and I am absorbing their energy?”

            When we are surrounded by others and their stories at times their stories can impact our stories. We share perspectives and those perspectives influence the way that we see the world throughout our day. At times, this can be overwhelming and change how we feel. Having boundaries with ourselves and what we take into our thoughts and emotions can protect ourselves from taking on the thoughts and feelings of other people.

            Asking ourselves several questions when we notice our emotions start to shift can help us to separate out how we are feelings from emotions that others may be experiencing.

When did this emotional shift start within me?

Is this conversation reminding me of another time in my life?

Does this conversation or individual feel draining?

Am I having a bad day or are people in my life going through a tough time?

What in particular about the day was challenging?

How do I set boundaries that protect my emotional state right now?

By asking ourselves these questions we are able to identify the origin of the shift in emotional state, explore why something might be draining, identify the source and identify and listen to our needs in the particular moment. At first, these questions may be challenging to answer. The more that you ask the questions in times where you notice the shift, the deeper your insight will develop and expand. Each time you give yourself the gift of getting to know yourself and your needs a little bit deeper. Explore your thoughts and enjoy the beautiful week ahead.