Why should you focus on the feeling instead of the thought?

Imagine this scene: you open your email and see a message from your boss or client that simply says, “Please stop the project you’re working on.” No extra details, just that.

How would you react? Well, two different parts of you come into play in moments like this, and usually, they react in totally opposite ways.

First, there’s your Mind/Thinking:

“Did I mess up somehow?”

“I definitely messed something up.”

“Why would they want me to stop without explaining? They’re probably going to fire me.”

Your mind is like an analyzer, always trying to figure out situations, people’s behaviors, and everything happening around you. That’s why it jumps to negative conclusions – logically, what else could make your boss or client tell you to stop if not your own poor performance?

The more you dwell on these thoughts, the deeper you spiral into negativity. Eventually, this can steal away your present moment, leaving you with anxiety, sleeplessness, stress, and more.

Moreover, the mind lives in the past. When something happens, it digs into its old data to make sense of it. The way you interpret situations is heavily influenced by your upbringing, friends, and society. So, your thoughts in these moments are often not even truly yours. They’re thoughts you’ve been taught.

Then, there’s your body – the Gut:

While your mind races with negative scenarios, your gut (solar plexus area) knows what’s up. It’s not easy to listen to because our society prioritizes the mind. However, you can train yourself to tune into it.

So, when you open that email and your mind goes wild with all sorts of ideas, focus your attention on your gut area. How are you feeling right now?

Is there a heavy feeling, like all your energy drained away?

OR

Do you feel light and calm in that area, even while your mind is going haywire?

If the latter rings true (which it often does), you’re likely okay. No need to worry.

If, by any chance, you’re feeling heavy, tired, and drained (the former), here’s what you can do:

A) Get moving – exercise, go for a walk, do something active.

B) Take a shower – a literal cleanse can sometimes help clear your mind.

C) Reach out – call your boss or client and ask for clarification. Waiting only fuels your mind’s frenzy.

D) Move forward – there’s probably a reason this situation came up. It’s a chance to learn and grow.

If things are going as planned – wonderful! If they’re not – even better! You’ve just saved yourself energy on something that wasn’t meant for you.

Remember: you’re shaping your reality, and situations like this are created by your higher self. If something “unexpected” happens, focus on your feeling. It’s your compass, always pointing towards the truth.

Jay Bialecki – You are awesome!