Conduct a "Feeling" Audit

Often we feel stressed not because of what we do, but because of how we feel about what we do. Since feelings are powerful motivators, if you increase your awareness of what makes you feel good, you're likely to behave that way more often.

• Try to remember when, in the last week, you felt "psyched," "pumped," "happy," or "energized." Or, on the other hand, when did you feel "bored," "tired," "over the hill," or "not needed?"
• What contributed to any "low" feelings? For example, did you make a mistake or tell a half-truth? Spend time on something you later felt was a waste? Deny yourself time for something you love, or turn down a chance to learn something new?
• What contributed to any natural highs? For example, did you complete something, meet a challenge, or create something new? Connect with someone in a special way? Engage in something you love? Were you involved in something really important? Able to be of service? Use a unique talent or skill?

In our busy lives, it is easy to push feelings aside. But one way to increase your energy is to enhance your emotional awareness.

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Excerpted from Recharge in Minutes ©2003 Suzanne Zoglio, PhD www.zoglio.com Buy the book

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