Let’s talk emotions. What exactly are they? Emotions are defined as “mental states brought on by neurophysiological changes, associated with current or past thoughts, feelings, behavioral responses (reactions) with a degree of pleasure or displeasure. Emotions are often intertwined with mood, temperament, personality, disposition, or creativity.” (Merriam-Webster.com)
Why do some people seem like they are riding the emotional rollercoaster more than others? It’s because they haven’t learned how to control their emotions. We ARE NOT our emotions. They are separate from who YOU are. When you encounter someone who becomes angry, belligerent, hollering, screaming, be disrespectful without taking time to think and step back, they have not learned to “control” their emotional reactions or responses. It is important when realizing this with people we interact with. Their emotional “maturity” is not developed yet….
This was HUGE for me to understand and realize about myself. I learned this from a teacher in my life around a year ago. She said to me, “Julianne, you ARE NOT your emotions. When you feel something in the pit of your stomach rise that’s negative, you need to recognize it immediately, grab it, and say I am not that fear, anger, resentment, bitterness.” Don’t engage it and it can’t morph and grow within you. Then, deep breath and know you will start controlling your emotions with time and consistency, instead of the emotions controlling you and reacting negatively to everything and everyone around you!
Roller coasters are fun but when it comes to our emotions, it’s not fun to be up and down all the time. Controlling your emotions will help you achieve some inner peace and have better relationships all around you. Recognize, grab the emotion, and don’t engage it if it’s not healthy for you!