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By: Alisha MacIsaac - BSc, MACP, CCC
Emotions are like signs, guiding us toward a deeper understanding of ourselves. While emotions may feel intense, uncomfortable, or even inconvenient, they all serve a purpose. Understanding what each feeling is trying to communicate, can help us make choices that respect our needs, values, and desires.
Rather than categorizing emotions as "positive" or "negative," when we approach our emotions with curiosity and compassion, we open up pathways for personal growth and better relationships. Have a look at some common emotions and how to navigate them!
Overwhelm
Underlying Meaning: Overwhelm suggests that you are or you may be juggling too much or that your resources are stretched thin. It is a signal to slow down or seek support.How to Respond: Prioritize tasks and set aside time to rest when possible. Consider delegating responsibilities or breaking down large tasks into manageable pieces. Practice self-compassion and remember that it is okay to ask for help.
Confusion
Underlying Meaning: Confusion may indicate a mismatch between expectations and reality or signal that something doesn’t align with your current understanding. It often reflects a need for clarity or additional information.
How to Respond: Rather than rushing to conclusions, take a step back and allow yourself time to process. Break the issue into smaller parts, ask questions, or seek input from others to gain clarity. Confusion can often be a gateway to deeper learning and growth.
Loneliness
Underlying Meaning: Loneliness lets you know that you need human connection or greater depth in your relationships. It is an indicator of our innate human need for companionship and support.
How to Respond: Reach out to others, whether through a phone call, social activities, or online groups. If you are already around others but still feel lonely, reflect on these relationships and seek out connections that feel more fulfilling or authentic.
Boredom
Underlying Meaning: Boredom suggests that you may be unfulfilled or under-stimulated, signalling a need for engagement or variety in your life. It is often a signal that you crave novelty, challenge, or growth. When boredom lingers, it can lead to feelings of emptiness, restlessness, or even frustration.
How to Respond: Without a sense of purpose or engagement, we may feel detached, unmotivated, or emotionally numb. For some, unaddressed boredom can lead to impulsive or even destructive behaviours as a quick fix for under-stimulation. To avoid this, reflect on what areas of life feel monotonous or lacking. Set new challenges, revisit old hobbies, or find ways to bring more purpose to your routine. Boredom can be a prompt to reconnect with things that inspire or excite you.
Resentment
Underlying Meaning: Resentment often stems from unmet needs, unspoken boundaries, or feeling under appreciated. It may indicate that something needs to be addressed in a relationship or situation in your life.
How to Respond: Acknowledge your feelings of resentment without judgement. Use this insight to set clear boundaries, assert your needs, and engage in honest communication. Addressing resentment helps prevent it from festering and escalating.
Joy
Underlying Meaning: Joy is a deep feeling of satisfaction, happiness, or contentment. It signals alignment with your values, desires, or a moment of connection that feels meaningful.
How to Respond: Take time to recognize the sources of your joy. Is it a person, activity, or moment that brings a sense of peace or delight? Let these insights guide you toward more of what brings you happiness, and try to incorporate these experiences more regularly. Remember that, while joy is a valuable emotion, expecting ourselves to feel happy all the time can lead to toxic positivity, where difficult feelings are dismissed or suppressed. Embracing joy authentically means allowing space for all emotions, which ultimately supports a more balanced, resilient life.
Anger
Underlying Meaning: Anger may arise when a boundary has been crossed, when we feel wronged, or when something feels unjust. It is an emotional signal to protect yourself or advocate for change.
How to Respond: Acknowledge your anger without judgement and express it in a controlled, respectful way. Take a moment to breathe and reflect on what is triggering your anger. Express your feelings in a healthy way, whether through communication, creative outlets, or physical activity, to prevent it from escalating. Consider how to channel the energy into constructive action, whether it’s addressing the issue, setting boundaries, or finding a solution.
Shame
Underlying Meaning: Shame often signals that we feel inadequate or unworthy, usually in response to societal or self-imposed expectations. You may be feeling disconnected from yourself or that you’ve acted in a way that conflicts with your values.
How to Respond: Confront shame with self-compassion. Understand that you are not your mistakes and that everyone has imperfections. Use this emotion as a prompt for self-reflection, learning, and growth. Share your feelings with a trusted person; shame thrives in isolation but weakens with empathy and understanding.
Relief
Underlying Meaning: Relief often follows tension or discomfort, pointing to the importance of recognizing when you are overextended or strained. It is a reminder to acknowledge your limits and take action when needed to restore well-being.
How to Respond: Take a moment to fully acknowledge and appreciate the relief you’re feeling. Reflect on what specifically has caused this release, and use it as a reminder that you have the ability to navigate challenges and come through difficult situations.
Pride
Underlying Meaning: Pride signals that you have accomplished something meaningful, whether big or small, and that you value your own capabilities and contributions. It highlights your self-recognition and belief in your worth.
How to Respond: Take time to celebrate your achievement, no matter how small. Share it with loved ones, or journal about your progress. Recognizing what makes you feel proud can provide motivation and insight into what you value most.
Emotions play a crucial role in guiding us through life’s challenges. Understanding them is key to emotional growth and well-being. If you are struggling to navigate your feelings or finding healthy ways to cope, at Building You we can provide the guidance and support you need. Don’t hesitate to reach out - together, we can work on understanding and learning how to manage emotions in a way that supports your overall mental health.