The Surprising Science of How Feelings Help You Think: The Wrath of Reading & Writing

The Surprising Science of How Feelings Help You Think: The Wrath of Reading & Writing

In the past, there was a belief that emotions hindered effective thought and decision-making. However, recent research has shown that emotions are actually essential for our thinking process. Emotions play a crucial role in decision-making and influence our thoughts more than we realize.

Contrary to popular belief, emotions are not distinct from each other. They overlap and intertwine, creating a complex web of feelings within us. Emotion is a functional state of the mind, a form of processing that guides our actions. It is incorrect to separate the rational mind from the emotional mind or label emotions as counterproductive. Emotions are used to determine our actions, and some emotions are specifically designed to drive us towards immediate or strong actions.

Becoming aware of our emotional state is crucial when making decisions. If we are in a certain emotional state, we may choose to revisit a decision later when we are in a more neutral or positive state of mind. Emotional contagion, however, is a significant factor in how certain media outlets manipulate our feelings. For example, networks like Fox News understand that fear and anger resonate with people, drawing them back for more. It is essential to recognize when our emotions are being influenced by external sources and to be mindful of the impact it has on our decision-making process.

Emotions also have surprising effects on our physical responses. Have you ever felt hungry for things that aren't food? Or found yourself repulsed by something unrelated to the situation at hand? Emotions can influence our desires and preferences, even in situations where it seems irrational. For example, if you are feeling disgusted for some reason and come across the perfect pair of shorts you were looking for in a store, you might still hesitate to buy them because the emotion of disgust is still affecting your decision. Understanding how emotions influence our choices can help us navigate through situations where our feelings may seem contradictory to our logical thinking.

Furthermore, emotional regulation has been linked to better overall health. Studies have shown that individuals with better emotional regulation have a significantly lower risk of heart attacks. Emotion regulation is a skill that can be developed, and it plays a practical role in our daily lives. By learning to regulate our emotions effectively, we gain greater control over our actions and decision-making processes.

Now, let's shift our focus to the impact of reading and writing on our minds. Reading has long been hailed as a crucial activity for expanding knowledge and understanding. However, it is not the act of reading alone that leads to growth; it is the active engagement with the material and the subsequent processing of information that truly enhances our minds.

Warren Buffett is often praised for his voracious reading habits, but Frederik Gieschen challenges the notion that reading alone is the key to success. Gieschen argues that networking, building relationships, and traveling were equally important factors in Buffett's achievements. The act of "working" with knowledge, whether through reading, conversing, or experiencing, is what truly stimulates our minds.

Throughout history, the volume and mediums of information have changed significantly. The industrial revolution, among other factors, contributed to a surge in literacy rates worldwide. Reading allows us to build a prepared mind, as Louis Pasteur once said, "In the fields of observation, chance favors only the prepared mind." A prepared mind is one that is ready to seize opportunities and make connections based on the knowledge it has absorbed.

Just as there are preconditions for significant advancements, such as the development of wings in insects, there are preconditions for opportunities to arise. For example, the widespread penetration of mobile phones with GPS was a precondition for the emergence of companies like Uber and Instagram. Reading helps us acquire the knowledge and understanding necessary to identify these preconditions and seize the opportunities they present.

Writing also plays a vital role in our intellectual development. Flannery O'Connor famously said, "I write because I don't know what I think until I read what I say." Writing allows us to articulate our thoughts and bring them to life. When we are forced to explain our perspectives to others through writing or conversation, it forces us to deepen our understanding and refine our ideas.

In conclusion, emotions are not a hindrance to our thinking process but an essential part of it. Understanding and regulating our emotions can lead to better decision-making and overall well-being. Reading and writing are powerful tools for expanding our minds and preparing ourselves for opportunities. By actively engaging with knowledge and expressing our thoughts, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Actionable advice:

1. Develop emotional regulation skills by practicing mindfulness and self-reflection. Recognize the influence of external factors on your emotions and make conscious choices based on a clear state of mind.
2. Engage in active reading by taking notes, discussing ideas with others, and applying what you learn to real-life situations. This will enhance your understanding and allow you to build a prepared mind.
3. Embrace writing as a means of self-expression and exploration. Take the time to articulate your thoughts and engage in conversations that challenge your perspectives. Writing regularly, even if not on a set schedule, will help you uncover new ideas and deepen your understanding.

Remember, emotions and knowledge go hand in hand. Embrace both, and you'll unlock new depths of thinking and decision-making.