Avoid The Emotional Infection | Daily Quote #440
People are concerned about contracting biological infections from others, but rarely consider the emotional ones...
“To this day, we humans remain highly susceptible to the moods and emotions of those around us, compelling all kinds of behaviour on our part - unconsciously imitating others, wanting what they have, getting swept up in viral feelings of anger or outrage.”
Robert Greene
Seeing other people express emotions causes you to experience a similar emotion too. (I really want to know why this is the case, psychologically and evolutionarily, but after searching around for half an hour, I found no explanations.) This can be a positive thing in moments of joy, but it can also drag you down - especially when you are surrounded by angry, or depressed, people.
I can’t explain why this is the case, but energy is contagious. We ought to be aware of who we surround ourselves with, the content we consume, and how that affects our internal mood. Are we dragged up with positivity or is our energy drained? Do we get swept up in viral outrage and anger, or can we distance ourselves from it?
Make sure that you are conscious about tending to the sources of energy and emotions that you are exposed to. Be aware and notice how each person impacts how you feel, how each activity raises you up or gets you down. We may be susceptible to the moods and emotions of those around us, but we can also help to regulate their effects on us.
🔻Enjoy this post? Click ‘Subscribe now’ below to keep up to date with new posts🔻
📖 Want life-changing books? Click below to check out my recommendations 📖