Mar 12, 2025
Emotions are not something to be embarrassed about; they are essential signals meant to guide us. Think of them as red flags or flares—indicators that something needs your attention. They are not meant to control you, but rather to help you shift your awareness and behaviour accordingly.
One of the biggest misunderstandings about emotions is the idea that we should either suppress them or let them take full control. Neither extreme is helpful. Instead, the goal is to be guided by your emotions rather than led by them.
Being led by emotions can feel like being hijacked by them—reacting impulsively, making rash decisions, or feeling overwhelmed. When emotions lead us, we might say things we don’t mean, lash out, or feel completely consumed by a feeling without understanding its purpose.
Being guided by emotions, on the other hand, means noticing them, being curious about them, and following them until they reveal what they truly mean. It’s about observing your emotions rather than being controlled by them. You might ask yourself: What is this emotion trying to tell me? Is it pointing to a misalignment, a need, or a value that requires attention? When you engage with emotions in this way, they become valuable tools for insight and growth.
Guilt arises when your actions don’t align with your values. Instead of internalizing guilt, be curious about it. Ask yourself: What value did I not uphold? What action can I take to realign? Internalized guilt, when it hijacks us, turns into shame, making us feel like we are fundamentally flawed rather than recognizing that a specific action needs adjustment.
Anger often emerges when something violates our boundaries or when an injustice occurs. Suppressing anger can lead to resentment, while unchecked anger can lead to destructive behaviour. Instead, ask yourself: What is this really about? What boundary or need is being ignored? Anger can be a powerful force for change when acknowledged and directed appropriately.
Frustration signals that your efforts aren’t producing the desired results. It points to a gap between your expectations and reality. Instead of feeling stuck, ask: Do I need to shift my approach, adjust my expectations, or redefine my goal?Frustration can be an opportunity to recalibrate.
Anxiety often arises in response to uncertainty, as the brain seeks stability. Instead of dismissing it, acknowledge that anxiety is trying to protect you. Grounding techniques such as breath-work, mindfulness, or talking with a trusted friend can help you navigate uncertainty while still allowing you to take meaningful action.
Sadness slows us down so we can process complex emotions or experiences. It interrupts daily functioning because something needs our attention. Instead of pushing sadness away, allow yourself space to feel and understand it. Ask: What am I grieving or letting go of? What needs to be processed?
Disappointment occurs when something or someone does not meet your expectations. Instead of shutting down or assuming your needs don’t matter, try to communicate what you need in a different way. Ask: How can I express this need more clearly? What realistic adjustments can I make?
Emotions are powerful tools that provide insight into what matters to us. Rather than fearing them or letting them take over, learn to approach them with curiosity. By doing so, you can use emotions to inform your choices and strengthen your self-awareness.
At VOX Mental Health, we help clients navigate their emotions with curiosity and self-compassion. If you’re struggling to make sense of your feelings, reach out to us. Therapy can help you develop a deeper understanding of your emotions and create a path forward. Visit www.voxmentalhealth.com to learn more.
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