Sometimes, we find ourselves getting angry for no apparent reason, feeling exceptionally happy at times, experiencing bouts of motivation, and then falling into episodes of depression. These swings are a part of our daily lives, and understanding them, let alone expressing them, can be challenging—especially when it comes to explaining them to someone else. These mood shifts are prevalent across all age groups. It’s up to each one of us to understand our own mood triggers. The responsibility of comprehending these mood behaviors lies with us. In this article, I will share some tricks and techniques to help you understand and develop an awareness of these moods and how to navigate them.
I was feeling upset at home, but when I went for a walk with my friend, I found happiness in the smallest things. It made me realize that rigid routines related to people, places, activities, and things can sometimes diminish our happiness. We should pay attention to both what brings us joy and what spoils it.
This experience highlights the idea that sometimes, when we break away from our regular routines or environments, we can discover happiness in unexpected places or through small, simple things. It also underscores the importance of self-awareness, being mindful of what truly brings us joy, and recognizing the factors that may be impeding our happiness.
In this article, I will share with you some techniques through which, after adopting them, you will be able to recognize and even fix unnecessary mood changes.
This sets the stage for discussing the article’s main content, where you’ll explore practical techniques for recognizing and managing mood swings.
1. Keep a Record of Changes:
Take note of what brings joy or stress into your life. For instance, receiving a heartwarming message from a dear friend can instantly light up your day, while an email from your boss might trigger stress even before you open it. Similarly, consider the impact of news related to your progress or achievements. Keep a record of these seemingly small instances and examine what truly brings you happiness.
Ask yourself when was the last time you experienced such pure joy. Is happiness truly something external, dependent on a message or news, or does it come from within? Keeping this record can help you identify what genuinely contributes to your happiness and whether it’s linked to external factors or your inner self.
This technique encourages you to reflect on the sources of happiness and stress in your life, helping you gain insights into your emotional triggers and responses.
2. Recognise Thought Patterns:
In life, many things exist only in our thoughts; they never actually happen. Did you know that about 90% of stress is born within the confines of our minds? The way we think often shapes our mood. For instance, if you’re running late, you might wonder, “What will happen?” or “Will I miss the train?” or “What will my boss say?” or “Will I keep my job?” and so on. But the truth is, most of these things never occur, and even if they do, we’ll figure it out.
Your thoughts and emotions are closely intertwined. When you find yourself going through a mood swing, pay attention to the thoughts circulating in your mind. Are they mostly positive or negative? Identifying these thought patterns can uncover the cognitive triggers behind your emotional ups and downs.
This technique urges you to become more conscious of the influence of your thoughts on your mood. By recognizing whether your thought patterns tend to be optimistic or pessimistic, you can take the first step toward understanding and managing your emotional swings effectively.
3.Seek Feedback from Trusted Friends or Family members:
At times, those close to you can pick up on your mood swings even before you’re aware of them. Trusted friends or family members can offer valuable insights. They may observe shifts in your behavior or demeanor that might have eluded your own notice. Engaging in open and honest conversations with them about your emotional well-being can shed light on aspects of your moods that you may not have perceived.
This technique emphasizes the significance of seeking external perspectives on your mood swings. Your loved ones can provide you with an objective viewpoint, helping you recognize and address emotional changes that might otherwise go unnoticed.
4.Follow Special Personal Rituals of Happiness:
Incorporate unique personal rituals into your daily routine that bring you joy. This could include special meditation sessions, prayers, reading, watching TV, dining out, or indulging in a hobby – any activity that truly lights up your soul. It’s essential to prioritize your happiness alongside your necessary tasks and responsibilities. Actively seek out what makes you happy and ensure it holds a special place in your routine.
This technique underscores the importance of dedicating time to activities that genuinely bring you happiness. By consciously including these personal rituals in your daily schedule, you acknowledge the significance of your own well-being and nurture a positive mindset.
In conclusion, mastering the art of recognising and managing mood swings is a journey towards emotional well-being and self-awareness. By employing techniques such as keeping a record of changes, recognizing thought patterns, seeking feedback from trusted individuals, and integrating personal happiness rituals, you can gain greater control over your moods. Remember, your emotional state is influenced by both external triggers and your own thought patterns. Embracing self-awareness and actively working towards understanding and navigating your mood swings will pave the way for a happier and more balanced life. So, go ahead, start your journey of self-discovery, and revel in the power of mastering your moods for a more fulfilling and harmonious existence.