Dr. RBF and I hosted the third in our series of House Calls this week; this time looking at the Flip Side of Fear.

In case you missed the first two, you can find them here:

The Psychology of Uncertainty

Leadership in Times of Crisis

We had a great time talking about all things psychological, neurobiological, and emotional. We talked about the role of cortisol and adrenaline in the experience of fear and anxiety, and how that has morphed into our current state of stagnation, boredom, and grief. In short, we talked about the process of adaptation: the good, the bad, and the ugly.

You can watch a recording of the full call here:

The conversation was lively and thought provoking, particularly around the idea of journaling. And so we thought we’d offer a few journal prompts here, for your use if you would like to use them.

Rules for the Road:

Just start. Give yourself a time limit – start with 5 minutes.

Don’t critique yourself. Grammar, spelling, and transitions don’t matter.

Try not to reread it, at least not until you have some emotional space from it.

Optional Prompts:

Start writing about where you are in your life at this moment. Describe your living situation, your work, and your relationships. Are you where you want to be?

Write stream of consciousness for five minutes. Don’t edit your thoughts or feelings and don’t censor your thoughts.

Write about an event that is disturbing you, in the third person.

Where were you at this time last year? What is the same? What is different?

Do you have a motto you live by? What is it and what speaks to you?

What skill would you like to master? Why?

Your home is on fire. Assuming all people and animals are safe, what five items would you like to take with you?

Observe your relationship with your phone. What is your relationship to it?

Write about the last disagreement you had with a friend or family member-from their perspective.

Write about an imperfection that you cherish about yourself.