Inside Out 2: Raging Emotions
I remember watching the excellent Pixar Inside Out, in 2023 as part of a family therapy assignment. It’s an animated movie about the raging emotions of a young girl named Riley. Joy, Anger, Fear, Disgust & Sadness. Emotions that drive every person, some more than others and ones we all need. It was cute and somewhat instructive even for an adult like me. No surprise I figured out quickly that my predominant emotions seem to be anger and fear. Usually anger, that is driven by fear.
But I had the chance to watch Inside Out 2 where the original cast of staple emotions is joined by new emotions especially as Riley becomes a 13 year old teen going through puberty. Anxiety, Envy, Ennui and Embarrassment. These new emotions take charge and kick out the old emotions. Or dominate them at least, ruining her growing sense of self. For anyone going through their teen years, this seems absolutely true. Myself included. Such a confusing time in your life.
Especially the feeling of anxiety, which is driven by fear about the future. It literally plays out all the worst possible scenarios so you can prepare for them. Scenarios of being alone, being seen as stupid, failing in whatever you are about, losing friends or whatever. Anxiety makes you act out in different ways due to the uncertainty of life. You are always planning. I realize this has always been a big driver of my life.
Epigenetically, I get this from my dad. He can be tense in tough situations. But I think I’ve taken this to a whole new level. This attention to detail was very useful in my career. I’ve channeled my anxiety into work. I’ve been accused of being a workaholic. I think it’s certainly true. I don’t stop until I get the work done. I literally cannot relax unless everything is finished.
I pay attention to details and wired myself to be super responsive. This is always probably why I am usually a stress basket that erupts into rage when things don’t go my way. Or my plans get wrecked. And especially angry when others don’t follow this example of reliability either. I find most people I meet disappoint me in this way.
I’ve had to learn to manage my emotions better through a disciplined regime I’ve mentioned many times. A proper sleep regime, ie. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep every night is helpful. As is a regular meditation and exercise regime, Church mass, and a good diet. I control my coffee intake and don’t drink it past 3 pm. It also helps to make sure my schedule is not overly packed, so I end up with lots of time to unwind, read books and listen to podcasts.
The point is that it’s really important to understand yourself and the dominant emotions that drive you. Human beings are complex creatures because of our emotions. We react very differently to every situation. Knowing ourselves is key to this so we can thrive better. Regulating our emotions and maybe finding some joy just like in the movie. :)