Feelings are a direct reflection of the thoughts we are thinking.
If we feel happy, it’s because we’re thinking happy thoughts. Likewise, if we feel sad or angry, it’s because we’re recalling sad thoughts or thinking about something that makes us mad.
Understanding this is paramount to having more good days than bad; more happy days than sad.
Recognizing that our thoughts are the trigger for our emotions is a profound realization. It empowers us to ask: Do I want to keep thinking this if it makes me feel this way? Your answer will depend largely on your feelings or what you need to discuss or work out.
Regularly, I emphasize the importance of taking the time to breathe. When anger grabs me, it’s because I’m thinking angry, frightened, out of control, worried thoughts. Anger has its place. It’s an emotion that is as worthy as happiness. That said, anger originates from our thoughts about a person or situation. Feelings of contentment arise when I stop, breathe, and seek the silver lining in the person or situation WHILE remembering the world doesn’t change that much on a second-to-second basis…but my thoughts sure can. This practice of breathing helps me feel calm and in control.
© Dian Griesel 2025
