Naming Your Emotions
Why putting feelings into words can soften their intensity — and how to build a richer emotional vocabulary.
Key ideas
- “Name it to tame it”: labeling feelings can reduce their intensity.
- Emotions carry information about needs.
- More than one feeling can be true at once.
Beyond “fine” and “stressed”
Many of us grew up with only a few words for feelings. Expanding that vocabulary — disappointed, lonely, hopeful, protective, tender — helps us understand ourselves and communicate more clearly.
Feelings as messengers
Anger may point to a crossed boundary. Sadness may point to loss or a need for comfort. Anxiety may signal something that feels uncertain or important. Listening to the message doesn’t mean you have to act on every feeling.
Try this
Pause and finish this sentence three times: “Right now, part of me feels…”
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