That's So Deep
That's So Deep
E. 22 - Toxic Positivity
Hello So Deep Peeps!
Welcome to That’s So Deep. This is the podcast where we try to root out loneliness one conversation at a time. We discuss topics that help us connect more deeply with ourselves and with those we care about because we believe that connection is the antidote to a lonely heart. Today we are talking about Toxic Positivity (based on the work by Susan David in Emotional Agility).
Some deep things we cover:
- The “Everything Happens for a Reason” Mantra: In an effort to make people feel better with phrases like this one, we actually make people feel worse by trivializing their pain.
- Myths and Truths about Unpleasant Emotions:
- Myth: Unpleasant Emotions are Something to “Get Over.” If you’re not happy then you’re doing it wrong. Unpleasant emotions are an obstacle to perpetual joy.
- Truth: Unpleasant Emotions Contain Beacons of Meaning. We are hardwired to feel unpleasant emotions. It is 100% human. Unpleasant emotions point us towards what we value most.
- “Emotions are Information. They are NOT Directives.” - Susan David: Emotions don’t own you. You own them.
- Ditch Bottling and Brooding. Embrace CURIOSITY. Getting curious is a healthy way to interact with your feelings. There is rich learning to be had when you ask why.
Take-aways:
- Hold up there, Little Miss Sunshine: Allow space for folks who are feeling it without jumping in with our toxically positive statements. Be a good listener.
- Feel It All but You ARE NOT the Feeling: Remember that emotions are information, not directives. You are in control and the feelings can help guide you.
- Get Down to the Granular Level: The more specific you are, the more information you get about what you care about.
We want to have a conversation with you!
The whole point of this podcast is to facilitate and encourage deeper conversations and we want to hear from you! Connect with us!
1. Join our That's So Deep Community Group on Facebook
2. LIKE and FOLLOW us on:
Facebook: @sodeeppeeps
Instagram @thatssodeeppod
3. Text us or leave us a voicemail: 805-288-0884
4. Email us: sodeeppeeps@gmail.com
If you liked this podcast, you can FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE or SHARE with a friend and if you don’t want to miss an episode, click that BELL so you can be notified right away when the next episode releases. We love you and we can’t wait for our next deep conversation!
Yours in Becoming,
Phyllis & Julie
Resources and articles we referenced in the episode:
- What Is Toxic Positivity?
- 'Toxic Positivity' Is Real — and It's a Big Problem During the Pandemic
- The Dangers of Toxic Positivity, Part 1 of 2 - Brené Brown
- Susan David: The gift and power of emotional courage | TED Talk
- When The Body Says No – Chapter One - Dr. Gabor Maté
- Inside Out (2015 film) - Wikipedia