Q:
Q: What are the dangers of downplaying or avoiding emotions? 08-11
A:
A: Think of a person stuffing their emotions inside. When those emotions eventually become too overwhelming, that person will explode. Another result of this behavior might be these “stuffed” emotions causing misdirected resentment. In other words, those negative feelings will leak out in the form of passive aggressive behaviors directed toward others who are not at fault. However, people seldom realize there is a risk greater than these first two. That is, discounting or avoiding our emotions, when they hurt, can separate us from all their benefits.Emotions are closely intertwined with the meaning of our lives. If we get into the habit of downplaying our emotions, we are at risk of living our life without motivation. This kind of life feels flat, hollow, empty, and unsatisfying.