Emotional Health Needed for
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Emotional health is a critical key in personal development and Christian discipleship. Emotions move us to act, or in some cases, paralyze us from taking action. Despite their importance, most people are severely out of touch with their feelings at any given moment. We have become a culture that has minimized
the value of emotions. This "dumbing down" of emotional intelligence creates a number of problems. At times, feelings tell us "something is not right". They serve as warning signals and motivate us to change. When we fail to "pay attention," we miss an opportunity to adjust our actions and avoid painful consequences. A lack of emotional health will likely: damage relationships; prevent personal development; and lead to destructive or addictive behaviors. We also know that emotional stress and "dis"ease contribute to a multitude of physical problems. Failure to become emotionally healthy leads to irresponsible behavior while emotions "take over". There can be little doubt that undealt with emotions spill over into every aspect of life.  |
Tips to Increase Awareness and Improve Emotional Health- Recognize that God created you an emotional being. In fact, God Himself has emotions. Make it a goal to be emotionally healthy. - Improve your emotions vocabulary in order to more readily identify feelings. - Increase self awareness. Taking time to journal each day will help put you "in touch" with what you are feeling. Look for opportunities throughout each day to "check in" with your emotions and determine what you are feeling. These will provide vital clues toward your personal growth. - Reflect on your feeling to determine the belief that lies beneath the surface. For example, if something stirs up anger or hurt, dig deeper to discover what you really believe in light of the event. You may be surprised to discover that the event itself is not the problem, it is really your interpretation of it that creates the pain and conflict. - Practice self control. Remember, no matter what - you are ALWAYS in control of how you choose to respond. |
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When we are ruled by our emotions we are in danger of: expressing rage toward others; falling into self pity; or, partaking in high risk behavior. Our emotions move us and can often prevail even over our reasoning ability. Emotionally healthy people can accurately identify and process through emotions while refusing to be ruled by feelings. They maintain emotional composure and ultimately make choices that are in alignment with their priorities and will. In order to become emotionally healthy, we must start by addressing our root belief system. Feelings are filters attached to what we ultimately believe to be true. When beliefs are not based on truth - our feelings are not based on truth - resulting in poor decisions and dysfunctional behavior. We can help you increase your emotional awareness and identify faulty beliefs that are ruining your relationships, trapping you in sin, and hindering your growth. Contact us today for a consultation and begin your journey toward emotional health! |
- Increase your ability to appropriately express your emotions. Many of us fall into a pattern of self protection that prevents us from experiencing strong, healthy relationships. A counselor or coach can assist you in setting proper boundaries while increasing your ability to successfully share your feelings with others. Avoid behaviors that shut down communication. - Be proactive against stress. Intentionally schedule times for reflection and self regeneration. Such activity becomes a "safety valve" for managing emotional health. |
