Where do feelings fit?
Where and how do we learn to deal with feelings?
- In our families, schools and churches
- More implicitly than explicitly; not a “subject”
- Invisible; Woven into our language and behavior
Typical Work Norms
- “Leave your emotions at the door, please.”
- If you have feelings, “Get over it!” and “Control your emotions.” (it’s very scary when they come out of hiding).
- If you have feelings, please don’t tell me. (they must be negative!)
- They’re described as “personality problems”.
- Viewed as touchy, feely “pop culture”.
- We are not quite sure what to do with these pesky feelings.