Gmail 'Send and Wait for Approval' Node Causes Unexpected Workflow Restarts

Below is some guidance focused on Gmail and n8n's configuration that might help narrow down the issue:

Why the Workflow Keeps Restarting

The Gmail Trigger node fires whenever it detects a new incoming message that matches the configured filters. In your case, replying or approving an email may be causing Gmail to treat your response as a new message—even if it comes from your own account. This can result in the trigger firing repeatedly.

What to Check

• Trigger Filters:
  Make sure your node filters (like Sender, Label Names/IDs, or Search parameters) are set so that messages sent by you (or automated replies) do not match the criteria. For example, you might:

  • Use the Search field to include conditions (such as excluding emails from your own address) so that only intended incoming emails trigger the node.
  • Configure the Sender filter if you want to restrict the trigger to emails from specific addresses.

• Read Status Configuration:
  Check that your Read Status is set correctly (usually Unread emails only by default). If your reply is being marked as unread when it lands in your mailbox, the trigger will see it as a new email.

• Gmail Thread Behavior:
  Remember that Gmail groups emails into conversations. Sometimes, replying to an existing thread might cause the trigger to pick up the conversation as a new message—especially if there is an automated addition (like the n8n attribution) being appended to the message.

Next Steps

1. Review and Adjust Filters:
   Revisit your Gmail Trigger node's configuration and refine the filters. For instance, add a condition in the Search field that excludes emails sent by your own address.

2. Test with Adjustments:
   After adjusting your filters, test the workflow again by sending or replying to an email that should not trigger the workflow. Verify that only the intended emails start the workflow.

3. Consult Documentation:
   For more details on configuring Gmail Trigger, refer to the official Gmail Trigger node documentation. This guide includes examples on using node parameters and filters effectively.

By refining your filter conditions in the Gmail Trigger node, you can prevent the workflow from restarting on emails (such as your replies) that are not meant to start the process.