Affirmation: I do not react, I respond...I am in control.
When I feel fear, I examine the cause of that emotion, I understand that there are things in this world that create the emotion of fear in me that may actually be harmless. I recognized that many of my lived experiences and past traumas may pull me strongly in one direction. But logic, not emotion, tells me that fear is just a sign that I should pay closer attention to what is happening inside my brain and my body. I decide logically and intelligently whether a person, action, or situation should be avoided or trusted.
Frustration, discontent, and boredom all deliver a message to me. These are sometimes signs that I should consider changing my tactics or environment. Again, I use these emotions as an alarm system to examine the situation further. I am mindful of my emotions. Knowingly, I pause to gain my composure before I continue.
Today, I use my emotions as a tool. I allow my emotions to speak to me, but I use my intellect to make my decisions and to adjust my responses accordingly. I realize this skill takes time to learn. Most of all, I forgive myself when my emotions take over and rule me.
My emotions are not bad. They are beautiful and powerful tools to help guide my decisions and reactions but I do not allow them total authority to control me.
Today's Emotional Empowerment Coaching Questions:
1. When have I foolishly allowed my emotions to make my decisions for me? What would have been a better choice in each of those situations?
2. What do I fear that I should be doing? Am I allowing my emotions to control me?
3. Do I make my decisions based on logic or am I allowing my past emotional experiences to decide my future? If not, how would my life change if I did?