Cultivating Reason Amidst Weeds of Emotion

Sep 14 , 2024
By Kidist Yidnekachew

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I am not one to engage in New Year’s resolutions. However, I do believe in acknowledging the aspects of ourselves we wish to change. This pursuit should come without the pressure of arbitrary deadlines. What truly matters is the process of self-improvement, as reaching goals remains the focus, no matter how long it takes.

The past year has taught me the value of prioritising my happiness and fulfilment, while also recognising the need not to let emotions fully dictate my decisions. It is essential to find a balance between feelings and logic, a lesson that has been crucial for personal growth.

I came across Psychologist Jordan Peterson's (PhD) commentaries on such issues which caught my attention. It cautions that an overemphasis on happiness can lead to unintended consequences. Ethical commitments and long-term benefits, he argues, should sometimes take precedence over immediate desires or emotional impulses.

One key reason to avoid allowing emotions to govern choices is their subjective and fleeting nature. Shaped by personal experiences and context, emotions may cloud judgment, leading to impulsive decisions. Prioritising reason offers a more stable foundation for aligning actions with long-term goals and values.

Peterson suggests that sole reliance on emotions breeds persistent dissatisfaction. While the pursuit of happiness is valid, it usually feels elusive, tied to external factors like approval, wealth, or favourable circumstances. This fixation on happiness then leads to disappointment, frustration, and even a profound sense of emptiness.

While emotions shape experiences, they also have limits. It is important to recognise the value of rational thought in navigating decisions. Building lives of purpose and stronger connections with others is possible by focusing on ethical and long-term considerations rather than short-term emotional gains.

In daily interactions, there are people with whom one may not immediately connect, whether due to personal biases, past experiences, or personality differences. It is crucial, however, that these feelings do not dictate how others are treated. Fairness and reason should guide interactions, helping maintain respect for every individual, regardless of personal emotions.

Emphasising reason over emotion enriches relationships. Treating others with fairness and respect—even when there is no personal liking—creates an environment of trust and collaboration. How individuals treat others, especially when emotions suggest otherwise, reflects character. Rising above personal biases to align with principles strengthens self-esteem and a sense of purpose.

This year, I plan to apply these lessons more consciously. I want to be more mindful of the balance between my emotional responses and rational decisions, especially when it comes to relationships and major life choices. Prioritising reason in moments of heightened emotion, I hope to create deeper, more meaningful connections with others and make decisions that reflect my long-term values, not just fleeting desires.

Achieving a balanced perspective that integrates reason and emotion is crucial for personal growth and societal contribution. While emotions encourage empathy and connection, they may also spark conflict and misunderstanding.

Ultimately, mastering the interplay between emotion and reason leads to more fulfilling lives, defined by sustained growth, purpose, and connection. In an increasingly fast-paced and emotionally charged world, cultivating this balance is essential for personal contentment and societal progress.

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PUBLISHED ON Sep 14,2024 [ VOL 25 , NO 1272]

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