Recording your stress is a good way to identify where, when, and what stresses you. This can help because stress is often very subtle; a string of events can slowly build up to the point where you notice the effect; headaches, tension, anger, frustration, depression, or however you respond to stress.
Carry this chart with you and record things that trigger stress. It may be helpful to make yourself stop, take a few slow, deep breaths, and check how you're feeling at least 3 times a day. If you wait until the edn of the day, you'll forget what started the stress and only remember the final response.
| Day | First Trigger | Second Trigger | Third Trigger |
Record your observations by answering the following questions:
What days this week did you feel the most stress? Why?
What days did you feel the least stress? Why?
Is there a time of day that's more stressful? Why?
What can you do to ensure success in the days ahead?
