Bottling Up Your Emotions Doesn’t Make You Strong — It Makes You Distant
Many people believe that keeping their emotions to themselves is a sign of strength — that staying calm, collected, and in control makes relationships easier. But in truth, not talking about how you feel can quietly create distance between you and the people you love.
When you don’t share what’s happening inside — your stress, frustration, joy, or worry — others can’t really see you. And when they can’t see you, it’s hard for them to feel close to you.
Emotional Expression Builds Connection
When you tell someone, “I feel anxious today,” or “I was caught off guard in that meeting,” you invite them into your inner world. Suddenly, you’re not just describing an event — you’re sharing a feeling. And feelings are what allow people to relate to you.
Think about a friend who once told you they felt overwhelmed at work or doubted their abilities. Chances are, you didn’t judge them — you empathized. You wanted to comfort them. You probably even thought, I’ve been there too.
That’s the power of emotional expression. It transforms interactions from surface-level exchanges into genuine moments of connection.
Start With Self-Awareness
To share how you feel, you first have to know what you feel.
That means pausing long enough to check in with yourself.
Ask:
What am I actually feeling right now?
Where do I feel it in my body?
What triggered it?
At first, this can feel uncomfortable. We’re so conditioned to go, do, and achieve that sitting still can feel unnatural. But mindfulness gives you the space to notice — to witness yourself before reacting, fixing, or hiding behind “I’m fine.”
Go First
If you’re often the one who listens, helps, or supports others, you might notice that while people feel close to you, you don’t always feel close to them. That’s because vulnerability flows one way.
Your friends and family might not know to ask deeper questions. It’s on you to take the first step — to say, “I’ve been anxious today,” or “I could use some extra support.”
And while you might worry about being a burden, remember this: when your friends share their feelings, you don’t see them as a burden — you see them as human. You’re glad they trust you enough to reach out. Let them feel the same about you, and trust that you have support too.
Practice in Safe Spaces
Expressing your emotions doesn’t mean oversharing or forcing depth where it’s not welcome. It means showing up as your full self — clear, honest, and connected.
If you want to practice sharing emotions safely and mindfully, this is exactly the kind of work we do inside Mindful Mavens — my monthly membership for women who want to live, lead, and connect with more ease, joy, and authenticity.
It’s where we practice slowing down, expressing ourselves honestly, and building relationships that actually feel close.