42. about emotional wellbeing...

42.

What are the components of an emotion? And which comes first:
​the thought or the feeling?

Emotions often feel very subjective and uniquely ours but we all have feelings and they usually have a few common aspects. Understanding these components helps us better manage our emotional well-being. Key components of an emotion include:

• Physiological response: This is our physical reaction - a racing heart, sweating, or tension and it is often an automatic response.
  
  
• Cognitive appraisal: In coaching we often call this - the story - or the way we interpret the situation and the emotion.
  
  
• Behavioral response: The way we act in response to the emotion, and often also goes quite automatic when emotions are high.
  
  
• Expression level: How we outwardly express the emotion, whether through facial expressions, body language, or tone of voice.
  
  

Often these components are so ingrained in our behaviour and mindset that it feels like one thing - jumping with joy, crying with sadness. But between all these components we are able to place a pause and therefore, reshape how it manifests.

As for what comes first - thought or feeling - the answer is often debated. We know that they can influence each other, especially the thoughts and stories we decide (sometimes unconsciously) to give to certain situations and emotions.

And this is where coaching becomes a powerful tool - it allows us to become aware of certain patterns, to interrupt them, and to also build the skills and tools to express them in a healthier way.


Right. I have also heard we have two types of brains. Is it true?
    Well, this is also a very simplified way to look at it. I would rather…