We all have things that set us off — particular triggers that cause a less-than-helpful knee-jerk reaction. Understanding what stresses you out can help you improve your emotional intelligence and resilience. One way to identify your triggers is by completing statements like “I become overwhelmed when…,” or “At work, I wish people would…,” or “I think it’s rude to…” You can also pay attention to your stress symptoms, such as sweaty palms, headaches, or tightness in your chest. Start watching for patterns in the situations that cause these symptoms. Maybe your manager learned that you missed an important deadline, or your colleague embarrassed you at a meeting. Once you’re aware of your triggers, you can actively manage how you react to them — instead of letting them control you.
Adapted from "Handle Your Stress Better by Knowing What Causes It," by Anne Grady
