Single Dad Laughing: Journaling to find the root of the problem.

See the whole post from Single Dad Laughing, as well as read an example of the process: Journaling to find the root of the problem. He writes:

The process takes blatant honesty, which isn't always simple, even when you're dedicated to the idea.

Step One: Write down the problem or the issue that you're dealing with.
Step Two: Write down the question, "why is that such a big deal to me?"
Step Three: Answer the question.
Step Four: Write down the question, "why is that a big deal to me?"
Step Five: Answer the question.
Step Six: Continue in this process until you get to the underlying root of the problem.
Step Seven: Write down your emotional need based on the root you've discovered.
Step Eight: Give yourself an action item to deal with the root (not the original problem) as well as to get your emotional need met.

Why this works? It takes the focus away from controlling or trying to change what others are doing to recognizing what actions you might take in order to change yourself or meet your own needs. Bravo!