Monday Message from Jerry Houston, President and CEO of HPISolutions

I don’t know how many of you have had the time to read our monthly Power Idea for February by Senior Alliance Partner, Ginny McMinn (click here to read), where she talked about feelings and especially a feeling of resilience.  I strongly urge you to read the full article.  It will be well worth your time.

I was intrigued, and as I sat down to write this Monday Message, I was struck by the word “feeling,” and decided to look up the definition on Wikipedia.  “Feelings:  an emotional state or reaction.  A belief; especially a vague or irrational one.”

How important are our feelings?  Are they really vague or irrational?  My opinion is yes, no and maybe.

Feelings are very important because they come from that emotional part of our brain called the Amygdala.  When all is said and done, our feelings, rational or not, vague or not, drive us to actions or reactions based on what is going on in our environment.  When our resilience is down, we can very well become irrational in our emotional state and conjure up fears that may be ill-founded.  Given what has been going on in our world over the past year, is it any wonder that fear and consternation are abounding?

It’s really important for our own health and the health of our families, friends, and team members to take the time to listen to each other, to display empathy and concern, and to reinforce that the current situation will pass as we move past this time of COVID into the new reality of post-pandemic.  We will all be the better for it.

Have a Great Week

To read the full Power Idea from Ginny McMinn, click here

For upcoming training and development programs, click here.



1 Comment

  • I find taking the time to review if I am reacting with feelings or facts makes it easier to make wiser decisions. In times of stress but not danger, feelings are often mercurial and shift as tiredness, hunger, isolation, or a bad hair day roll through! Feelings are not facts! In business facts tell the tale.
    We all get “gut” feelings and they are often warnings that something is right or awfully, sneakily wrong. But those usually show up when we are at the top of our game! Our attitudes can adjust our feelings. You need to name your feeling. That sour stomach and adrenalin rush is the same for excitement or fear. So telling your brain which will often change your response in terms of feelings or facts. Are you excited for the possible adventure of the unknown or afraid to take the step? Telling your brain this is a “feeling” of excitement is exhilarating, just like the peak of the first hill on a roller coaster!

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