Writing Prompt: How Do You Feel
Today's writing prompt is the classic therapist question: "How do you feel?" Why do (some) therapists (like me) ask so many questions about emotions? Because awareness and understanding of emotions is incredibly important for mental health and psychological wellbeing! Let's dive in.
Before you start writing, close your eyes for a minute or two and tune in to your emotions right here and now. Be aware of your bodily sensations, emotions, and thoughts. Notice everything you can about your internal experience. Then, start writing.
🖊️📖 What do you notice about how you feel right now? How would you label your emotions today? Describe how they feel to you. What sensations help you know what you are feeling? What does your mind have to say about your emotions now?
🖊️📖 Now let's go beyond this moment. Write about emotions you tend to experience regularly. The full range of them.
🖊️📖 When are your emotions helpful to you? What wisdom do your emotions contain?
🖊️📖 Do your emotions ever throw you off course from your values? When do they lead you toward unhelpful behavior patterns? What emotions do you try to control or avoid?
🖊️📖 Would you consider yourself to be emotionally expressive? Or do you tend to be more guarded with your emotions? Do you share your feelings with others? How comfortable are you with vulnerability?
🖊️📖 What did you learn about emotions and emotional expression as a kid? How did your family talk about emotions? What cultural narratives did you learn about emotional expressions, and which emotions are acceptable?
I’m a clinical psychologist, co-host of Psychologists Off the Clock, and author of the books ACT for Burnout and ACT Daily Journal. You can find me online at drdebbiesorensen.com.
