Looks can be deceiving and not necessarily in the conniving sense. Hair, make-up, clothing can completely distract from what’s bubbling under the surface.
For those of us who wear our emotions on our sleeves, no amount of foundation and fancy clothes can hide how we feel. If you’re not in a good mood, this might make others uncomfortable because you make yourself unavailable in their presence. If you’re in a jovial mood, everybody shows up to the party - participants and critics.
Imagine if we only relied on facial expressions to understand each other - all relationships would be disastrous because our perception of each other would be riddled with assumptions.
Idea #1
Not everything that is communicated is verbal. It’s easy to frown, but you leave the other person guessing or they might just turn and run in the other direction. Get to the bottom of your emotions and find the words to express how you feel.
Idea #2
Self-awareness helps us connect with our emotions and set them straight. There is nothing wrong with being angry or discontent. The problem lies in how we communicate what we are feeling. Some people let their emotions determine how they treat others. In the end, regret, shame and guilt can supplant the pain you initially felt. Being able to communicate how you feel can bring reconciliation for both parties.
Quote #1
“Families who have strong and healthy communication skills can weather significant challenges and remain intact. Those with limited effective communication skills are vulnerable to the challenges of life pulling them apart.” -Ellen Miley Perry
Quote #2
“Assumptions are the termites of relationships.” -Henry Winkler
Quote #3
“Emotional awareness is necessary so you can properly convey your thoughts and feelings to the other person.” -Jason Goldberg
Challenge
If someone offends you, channel your emotions into a conversation that brings about mutual accountability and reconciliation. (Mutual accountability could mean that you were 100% wrong.)
Affirmation
My whole self is bigger than my emotions.