I have to hit you with some tough love today: how you are feeling never excuses your actions. Feelings do not come with instructions. Your emotions don't force you to act in a particular way. Being angry, jealous, or sad does not necessitate that you lash out, berate someone, or hole yourself away. Your feelings may make your actions more understandable, but feelings never demand particular actions from you. Your actions are always a choice, regardless of how your emotions played into your decision making.
Here are a few lessons to remember:
- Just because you don't feel like it doesn't mean you shouldn't: This logical fallacy keeps many of us flabby and fearful of the gym.
- Just because you feel like it doesn't mean you should: It's perfectly fine to want to punch someone in the face, but not okay to haul off and do it.
- Just because you want to react doesn't mean you have to: A personal insult seems to beg for a response, but saying nothing is still an option.
Feelings are not intrinsically paired with actions. They are merely feelings. Treat your feelings like clues about what to do next, rather than instructions. Why do I feel this way? Where did this feeling come from? What will I choose to do next?
You cannot "feel wrong", but you can certainly "act wrong". It's possible to honour and acknowledge what you are feeling, while still choosing actions that are largely independent of your emotions.
Stop treating your emotions like a set of instructions, and life will be a lot easier for you.
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Or read more daily meditations:
Why We Should Stop Saying "Pressure Creates Diamonds"
Practicing Gratefulness Isn't Just A Cliche
How To Handle Adversity? Expect It.
Don't Fight For Hills That You Can't Keep
Can You Make Life 1% Better?
When There Is Blood In The Water
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