How to Respond to Negative Emotions

Every human being experiences negative emotions. That’s a part of what it means to be a person. We can’t help it. Bad feelings come to all of us.  We DO have a choice, however, in what we do with them when they come.

Some suppose that every negative emotion requires a negative reaction – but that is not the case. Through prayer, attitude adjustment, and self discipline, we can respond positively to negative feelings.

If you don’t decide, you’ll merely react – and the decision needs to come before you’re in a funk. One helpful practice I’ve used for many years is spiritual breathing. I imagine exhaling the negative stuff, and then inhale deeply with a positive replacement. It helps.

Today, I challenge you to choose responding rather than reacting:

When you’re frustrated with someone – choose kindness.

When you’re in a hurry – choose patience.

When you’re stressed out – choose peace.

When you’re angry – choose calmness.

When you’re frightened – choose courage.

When you’re anxious – choose faith.

When you’re discouraged – choose hope.

When you’re upset – choose serenity.

When you’re conflicted – choose harmony.

When you’re pressured – choose tranquility.

When you’re offended – choose forgiveness.

When you’re deprived -- choose gratitude.

When you’re confused – choose prayer.

When you’re overwhelmed – choose simplicity.

When you’re sad – choose joy.

When you’re in despair – choose life.