Do you remember the story about Joe in the last post?

Joe’s life quickly spiraled out of control, leaving him in a vulnerable and precarious situation, both financially and relationally.

But how can we avoid falling into similar pitfalls? How can we access states of brilliance, gain more resourceful perspectives, and set ourselves up for the best possible outcomes?

I believe it all starts with controlling our emotional state.

What Are Emotions?

Emotions aren’t just a fancy word for how we feel; they’re a complex psychological state with three core components: a subjective experience, a physiological response, and a behavioral response. These elements work in harmony to create what we understand as emotions.

The Behavioral Response

The behavioral response is how we express our emotions outwardly. Interestingly, the words we choose can actually shape how we feel. For instance, if anger begins to surface, try labeling it as “annoyed” instead of “enraged.” This slight shift can dial down the intensity of the emotion. Similarly, to lift your spirits or add some pep, use energizing words like “excited” or call an event “exhilarating.” Test it out and watch your emotions respond to these vibrant descriptors.

The Subjective Experience

The subjective experience is the personal meaning we assign to an event. Each of us can react differently to the same situation based on our focus. The power of focus shapes our emotional landscape in real time, yet its potential is often overlooked. By directing our attention toward things that inspire creativity, provide solutions, encourage resourcefulness, and spark joy, we can create an emotional environment aligned with the qualities we wish to cultivate in our lives.

The Physiological Response

This is how the body physically responds to an event or experience. Research highlights the powerful connection between body posture and hormonal balance. Striking a ‘Superman’ pose for just two minutes, for instance, can lower cortisol levels and raise testosterone, fostering a sense of self-assurance. Similarly, even a simple smile is linked to increased happiness. This fascinating science prompts an intriguing question: How might we use our own bodies to naturally enhance feelings of confidence, creativity, or joy?

Imagine if Joe Had Used These Strategies

Consider for a moment: if Joe had applied these strategies, what might his situation look like?

When Joe recognized he was in a slump at work, he might have used these techniques to shift his state and gain fresh insights. His state determines his focus, and his focus, in turn, directs his course. In a more empowered state, Joe could have approached his boss for coaching, read a book on sales, or sought advice from the top producer in his company. He may even have considered a new career path instead of dreading the looming catastrophe. He could have realized that drinking wasn’t a solution and found ways to support his wife, easing some of the challenges at home.

The Power of Our State

While this is a fictional scenario, it reflects very real situations. Somewhere out there, a “Joe” is facing similar struggles, believing his external world restricts his ability to change. He sees obstacles—his job, his family, his finances—and concludes that he’s stuck. Most of us have felt this at some point, saying something like:

“I can’t move forward because ________ won’t let me.”

That being said, this post isn’t here to make us regret how we’ve shown up in the past or to make anyone feel bad. Rather, it’s an encouragement to adopt a way of being that will empower us moving forward. It’s a reminder that we often have more agency to create change than we realize. It’s simply a matter of recognizing it and choosing a way of conducting your life that moves you in that direction.

The truth is, when we’re in a better state, our language supports us. In a better state, we ask better questions, take personal responsibility, and set out on new paths. This shift in state doesn’t just improve our well-being; it can elevate the lives of those around us.

If you’re curious about how PSYCH-K®️ can help you increase your confidence and be in a better state more consistently, feel free to explore more on my website HERE or contact me directly.

Be well,

Jennifer