Ep 37: The Ups and Downs of Feeling Discouraged, Resigned and Frustrated

podcast Apr 03, 2023

In this episode of "The Emotional Expedition with Meghan Thomas," Meghan discusses the emotions of discouragement, resignation, and frustration. She explains that discouragement and resignation are about losing motivation and confidence to continue making efforts, while frustration is the feeling of being prevented from achieving a desired outcome.

Meghan provides examples of times when she has felt these emotions in her life, such as while trying to conceive, being an entrepreneur, and in relationships.

Meghan also shares research that shows social support and positive self-talk can help individuals cope with discouragement and reduce its negative effects on mental health. In addition, she suggests goal-setting and resilience as ways to prevent discouragement, and mindfulness as a way to manage negative emotions.

The episode also highlights the positive side of frustration, as it can lead to increased creativity and problem-solving skills. Meghan gives examples such as Keith Jarrett's improvised concert and Brian Eno's use of oblique strategies to disrupt the creative process.

The episode encourages listeners to acknowledge and accept negative emotions and to seek support and positive coping strategies when facing discouragement, resignation, and frustration.

Resources:

Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart

Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: https://amzn.to/3nuMlFu

The 4 Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin: https://amzn.to/3nr0Ha6

Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://amzn.to/3Zlz0wz

To all the Magic in Me by Pavita Singh: https://amzn.to/3Ke7qNv

Dr. Kristin Neff: https://self-compassion.org/

Ted Talk: How Frustration Can Make Us More Creative: Tim Harford: https://www.ted.com/talks/tim_harford_how_frustration_can_make_us_more_creative