Name It to Tame It

When emotions feel overwhelming, our instinct might be to push them away or react impulsively. Instead, try labeling what you feel: “I’m frustrated,” “I’m anxious,” “I’m disappointed.” This activates your brain’s prefrontal cortex, the area responsible for problem-solving and regulation, and helps calm the limbic system, where intense emotions live.

Acknowledging emotions doesn’t make them stronger—it makes you stronger in how you respond. It gives you clarity to know what each respective emotion needs to feel soothed and validated, thereby ensuring that your psychological and emotional needs are met.