States and Emotions

Hi Everyone

Over the next few posts I want to explore the concept of states and emotions.

By understanding these better and doing some exercises we can take some further steps to achieving the levels of happiness and success we define for ourselves.

States

Definition

Ones state is the combination of the processes of the mind and body in an individual at the one time and provides the mental and physical conditions from which you act. It is the sum total of all your experiences at any one time.

Some states are positive, others negative, some fleeting and others more enduring.

States are with you every day but are constantly changing over time.

Mostly we spend our time in between the extremes of the states until something happens to change it.

Is it possible to choose your states rather than be controlled by them?

Yes it is.

Behaviour arises from our states.

States not only determine what we feel but also how we behave and how we perform.

When we are in a positive state we behave confidently and when in a negative one we are less resourceful and struggle with things we would normally be able to do.

State Awareness

Many of us are not aware of the state we are in and how we are feeling. So how do we become more aware of what states we are in?

To become aware do the following:

Close your eyes, go inside and become in touch with how you are feeling right now.

How is your breathing? – fast or slow? Deep or shallow?

Is your body tense or relaxed?

Is there any discomfort anywhere in your body?

How are you mentally? Tired, energized? Quick or slow?

Is there anything troubling your mind.?

Are you without a care in the world?

Once you have practiced this a few times you will be able to know what is going on for you instantly.

Baseline States

Most of us have only a few states that we use habitually. These are called our baseline states. They are the ones that feel most natural to us.

Think about what your baseline states might be.

What state do you go back to most often?

How would someone who knows you well describe you in one word?

If you have done these exercises not only have you improved your self awareness but you have taken some steps toward managing you states.

Have a great day and may your day be filled with happy states.

Nevin