Using the topic of “Is This Emotion Mine?” from my book Thriving as an Empath here’s how to effectively work with it’s companion journal The Empath’s Empowerment Journal.

 Excerpt from Thriving as an Empath: 365 Days of Self-Care for Sensitive People

January 9

Is This Emotion Mine?

Emotional empaths are able to sense other people’s feelings and become a sponge for both their happiness and their stress. It may be hard for you to distinguish someone else’s emotions from your own. They are a form of subtle energy that we all give off, and they are contagious. You may unknowingly take on a loved one’s moods. Or in crowds, you can suddenly feel anxious, depressed, or happy without knowing why.

A wonderful way to clarify this is to get into the habit of asking, “Is this emotion mine or someone else’s?” Many empaths get confused and overwhelmed because they’re not used to framing their exchanges in this way. That’s why practice is important. Start by asking yourself this question about three people.

Prior to interacting, notice your own mood to get a baseline of your emotional state. Are you peaceful? Anxious? Excited? Then observe how your mood changes after the encounter. If you feel different, either subtly or dramatically, most likely you are picking up their emotions.

Set Your Intention

I will empower myself by becoming aware of my emotions. Being mindful of the feelings I absorb from others enhances my self-knowledge as an empath.

Excerpt from The Empath’s Empowerment Journal: Your Self-Care Companion

To further embrace this self-care practice find the corresponding page in The Empath’s Empowerment Journal and write down the additional steps you would take to keep yourself centered in the space provided.