What’s important about this?

I can get spun up pretty easily. Unexpected events, unsolicited feedback, unanticipated reactions…

As much as I wish I could use that energy constructively, the reality is that things happening outside of my control and liking can cause a distracting spiral—for hours, days, or longer. And while I know this, I still sometimes lose time, regret it, and learn the lesson all over again.

What helps is when I remember to pause and take a few minutes to get really specific about what’s triggering me. Understanding what is underneath my reaction can calm the swirl and allow me to refocus. Can you relate?

If so, this week’s journal prompt* might be useful. The question to consider is:

What’s important to me about this?

“This” can be anything you’re turning over repeatedly in your mind right now. Put another way, why do you care?

Our emotional reactions are rooted in stories we tell ourselves about what other people’s responses (or lack thereof), events, and unlucky breaks mean. When we dig, then dig a bit more to understand what is important to us, we have a chance to learn something about ourselves and how we relate to what’s happening around us.

Gaining this insight unlocks options beyond “f’ it” and empowers us to respond differently.

Wise-woman and author Tara Mohr wrote recently, “Sometimes growth is just seeing it sooner.”

“WE HAVE TWO LIVES: THE ONE WE LEARN WITH AND THE ONE WE LIVE AFTER THAT." - BERNARD MALAMUD

*A journal prompt is simply a question to consider when you want to pause and reflect. It’s fascinating to see what comes out on the page. In writing for yourself, there are no rules, no special notebooks needed, or minimal time required. Do only what works for you.