CBT-3.1
CBT*: Thoughts vs Emotions
Thoughts are what we think; emotions are what we feel. What can be a little confusing in distinguishing the difference is when we assign words to identify emotions.
Thoughts can to be recognized [in our mind] as phrases of two or more words. For example, one might think, “Gee, sometimes my job is just too stressful.” Even though there is a “feeling-like” word used here (i.e., stressful), it still remains a thought I have about my job.
Emotions (also often referred to as feelings) are generally identified by one word. (Note: Qualifiers, like “really” or “horribly” or “incredibly” etc only contribute to the intensity of the feeling identified.) The emotions one might have associated with the above thought could include “stressed,” or “anxious,” or “overwhelmed,” or “inadequate;” each being a single word that describes how one might feel about this job.
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The following lists present examples of the differences between thoughts and emotions:
Sample Thoughts – Note how each would complete the phrase “I think _______”:
I know I’m good enough. No one likes me. I shouldn’t be treated this way. The future holds promise for me. | I fail at everything I try to do. I’m a good and caring person. The problems at work are not all my fault. For us to be happy, my partner needs to change. |
Sample Emotions – Note how each could fill in the blank of “I feel ________.”
Joy[1] | Sorrow | Fear | Anger | Disgust |
happy good competent connected secure desirable brave validated upbeat motivated inspired worthy
| sad alone inferior neglected dejected depressed rejected disappointed discouraged empty worthless helpless | afraid anxious apprehensive dread edgy horrified nervous worried overwhelmed panicked scared tense
| angry annoyed insulted enraged frustrated grouchy hostile irritated jealous mad outraged resentful | disgusted revulsion nauseous disdainful insulted offended hostile loathing contempt antipathy guilty ashamed |
[1] FYI: These headings (Joy, Sorrow, Fear, Anger, and Disgust) are often considered the five basic emotions…
