Do you have any emotions you find particularly difficult to deal with? If not, are there any emotions you rarely experience? How would you deal with that emotion if it arose?
It is likely that everyone will have an emotion or two they have difficulty identifying. This is typically because it is so uncomfortable for them to deal with. What can then happen is that they will then shift into another emotional response. This can be a knock-on effect from the first or primary emotion. However, it can also be because it is simply more comfortable for the person to express that second or secondary emotion.
An example could be that someone is so uncomfortable experiencing embarrassment that they will shift into another emotion they are more comfortable expressing such as anger. Expressing anger every time someone suffered an embarrassment could cause them additional issues in their lives. However, it could also be that the source of the embarrassment incited that anger response.
It is important for us to be self-aware enough to identify what these difficult emotions are. If we do not, we could repeat the same or similar behaviours repeatedly. Even if we want to change these behaviours. This type of response can quickly become habitual and cause us additional issues.
Practising identifying the actual emotion we are experiencing is key. At least to be honest with ourselves.
If anyone wants any support identifying emotions, please do not hesitate to book a Free Mindset Meeting here: Home | Chloe Mepham BSc Certified Life Coach.