like, if i’m feeling bad but force myself to do something, i usually feel better. how to maintain the usefulness of this advice without presenting it as ‘fuck your feelings’, in that usual arrogant right wing sort of way

  • sincle354@kbin.social
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    4 months ago

    I’m going to analyze this assuming you’re more manly than not, since that’s where my experience is at.

    Emotions are separate, related issues that can be tackled just like a man can. A therapist with “Men’s Issues” experience knows how to frame the woo and abstractions of regular therapy with more actionable techniques. Someone with very intense or inappropriate emotions may need to face the emotions MORE than the problem at hand. There are techniques and viewpoints to be understood, and I had to use these myself.

    It’s stuff like simple facts about emotions. They exist. They influence your actions. They can be modified and analyzed. They need to be managed like an adult manages a child. Ignoring emotions can compact them into deep seated hurt that induce more emotions. Process your past to free yourself from that hurt. It won’t be fast, but it needs to be done.

    If certain situations that cause emotions can be avoided, do so when reasonable. If they cannot be ignored, recognize that external help through tools, techniques, and friends are not weakness, but the weapons you use to to fight your battles. Forgive yourself slipping while always focusing on the output. Learn to cry, and know how it makes you more powerful and strong.

    Notice that this is closer to “wise old karate master” or “Boy Scout Scoutmaster” talk. It’s what men crave but rarely find in popular media. IF the person does not have issues with their emotions and have a sufficiently sized ego, pulling them through the first steps of anxiety and hesitation is enough to make someone feel competent and secure. Positive visualization, goading their ego, pushing buttons (gently), it’s good for many men but not for all of them, and it just doesn’t translate to a lot of women. Expand your arsenal of emotional management for your target audience. You’re a good person for wanting to find a better way to help others.