Embracing the Storm: 6 Practical Techniques for Coping with Difficult Feelings

This week has been an emotional rollercoaster for me, filled with moments that tested my ability to embrace and grow from difficult feelings. Like many of you, I grew up believing that negative emotions were something to be feared and avoided at all costs. However, through my own journey, I've discovered the power and necessity of facing these emotions head-on. By sharing my experiences and the lessons I've learned, I hope to light a spark of inspiration within you. I'm eager to hear your thoughts and reflections, so please, don't hesitate to email me back. Let's continue to support each other and grow together.

Welcome to the whimsical world of sitting with difficult feelings, a place where even the bravest souls tread lightly. It's like learning to ride a dragon when you've only ever flown kites. Daunting, yes, but oh, the places you'll go once you've mastered the art! Let me take you on a journey through the valleys of vulnerability and over the mountains of mindfulness, with a tale of transformation that begins in the most unexpected of places: my own life.

Once Upon a Time in the Land of Eternal Sunshine ☀️

In a land where the sun always shines and the flowers never wilted, there lived a child (that is me) who was taught that the only acceptable weather was sunny. Rain clouds, especially those that rained inside you, were to be avoided at all costs. So, I learned to put on a smiling face and keep myself as busy as a bee, flitting from one activity to the next, never stopping long enough to notice the storm brewing inside.

As I grew, so did the storm. It followed me into adulthood, where I realized that no amount of busyness could outpace the rain. Fear, grief, feeling not good enough, imposter syndrome—they all caught up with me. It was only when I stopped running and turned to face the storm that I discovered something miraculous: the rain wasn't my enemy. It was watering the soil of my soul, allowing me to grow in ways I never thought possible.

Embracing the Storm: Practical Techniques for Coping with Difficult Feelings

1. Mindfulness Meditation: A study in the *Journal of Psychological Science* found that mindfulness meditation can reduce emotional reactivity. Imagine sitting with your feelings as if they were clouds passing through the sky of your mind. Observe them, acknowledge them, but let them drift without getting caught up in their storm.

2. Expressive Writing: According to a study in the *Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology*,expressive writing can help in processing traumatic events and reducing emotional distress. Grab a journal and let your feelings flow onto the page. It's like having a conversation with your inner self, where no topic is off-limits.

3. The Art of Distraction (Wisely Used): While constantly avoiding feelings isn't healthy, sometimes a short break can give you the strength to face them. Engage in an activity that brings you joy or relaxation. Think of it as taking shelter from the storm in a cozy cabin, gathering warmth before you step back into the rain.

4. Cognitive Behavioral Techniques: Challenge the thoughts that fuel your difficult feelings. Is there evidence to support them? Can you think of counter-evidence? It's like being a detective in your own mind, searching for clues that lead to the truth.

5. Seek Connection: Share your feelings with trusted friends or family members or with me, in coaching or in our group coaching ( soft sell :).  A study in the *American Journal of Psychiatry* highlights the importance of social support in emotional resilience. It's like joining forces with fellow adventurers, making the journey less daunting.

6. Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend in distress. Remember, it's okay not to be okay. You're learning to dance in the rain, and every step, even the missteps, is part of the dance (corny I know …but you get it right?).

The Rainbow After the Rain 🌈

Learning to sit with difficult feelings has allowed me to experience a wider range of emotions, from the deepest blues to the brightest yellows. It has taught me that procrastination and stress often stem from unaddressed storms within us. By facing these storms, I have found peace in the midst of chaos and strength in vulnerability. I hope this helps you too my friend.

So, dear reader, if you find yourself caught in a storm, remember: it's not about avoiding the rain but learning to dance in it. With each drop, you're growing, transforming, and becoming more resilient. The journey may be challenging, but the rainbow on the other side is worth every step.