In the midst of a recent conversation about a workplace disagreement, my acquaintance, Lisa, remarked, “I must just be being too sensitive.” She hesitated, adding, “Perhaps I should just wait it out and ensure my feelings aren’t unwarranted.” It was evident that her emotions were clashing with her rational thoughts, creating a cacophony within her. She felt compelled to express her feelings, yet feared being labeled as “overly emotional.” This self-doubt is a common challenge many women face, often dismissing their own emotions as trivial.
Society has established a rigid image of how we should present ourselves—tailored suits, impeccable makeup, and a serene demeanor. A furrowed brow in public can signal distress, which is often viewed negatively. We are expected to maintain a composed and rational facade at all times. But why conform to these restrictive standards?
Human beings are inherently emotional. We experience a wide range of feelings: joy, sadness, frustration, and elation. Yet, societal norms often dictate that women’s emotions, and even men’s to a degree, are undervalued. While it’s acceptable to express happiness, feelings of sadness or anger are frequently dismissed. Women, in particular, are often told to suppress their emotions, leading to an internal buildup that can eventually feel overwhelming.
For years, I adhered to this expectation, stifling my feelings. If motherhood brought sadness, I wouldn’t acknowledge it. If someone offended me, I would simply let my emotions fester. But I’ve since decided to reject that mindset. Life can be challenging, and it’s important to share our struggles openly. Express how you feel; share your frustrations. Be honest and vulnerable.
Just the other day, during a discussion in a graduate course on feminism, I observed a young woman named Sarah. She was visibly anxious, striving to share her perspective but was consistently overlooked. I could see her discomfort as her thoughts were misinterpreted, likely due to her meek demeanor, making her an easy target for dismissal.
Recognizing the situation, I spoke up, saying, “Let Sarah share her thoughts; she’s been trying to contribute for quite some time!” In that moment, I allowed my emotions to surface, disrupting the classroom’s equilibrium. Surprisingly, this shift encouraged Sarah to voice her opinions too. Our unfiltered expressions resonated with our classmates, who began to value our insights and feelings. This chaotic yet authentic exchange ultimately fostered a better understanding among us.
The next time you find yourself questioning whether you’re being “too sensitive,” remember that you’re simply expressing what it means to be human. Do not bottle up your emotions like a vacuum; instead, let them out, even if it creates a bit of a mess. You can always tidy up afterward.
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In summary, emotional expression is a vital part of being human, and recognizing this can empower us to share our feelings more openly. Whether at work or in personal situations, we should embrace our emotions rather than suppress them.
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