Express Emotions with I Statements

Emotional – Activity: Express Emotions with I Statements

Just as we have choices about how to interpret an event, we also have options about how to express feelings.

First, evaluate the situation:

• How important is it to me?
• Are my feelings based on rational beliefs/thoughts?
• Is it something that can be changed?
• What are the likely results if I speak up?
• Is it appropriate to speak up?
• Is it worth it for me to take action?

If you do decide to communicate your feelings, use I Statements. The five elements of an I Statement are:

1. Observations – state the facts, describe the situation
2. Feelings – describe your own feelings
3. Thoughts – about the effects of the situation
4. Wants – ask clearly for what you want
5. Intentions – tell what you plan to do

This week, I will decide if expressing emotions is the best choice in situations that arise. If I choose to express my emotions, I will use I statements. I will print a Five Message Worksheet (pdf) and use it each day. 

Tools:

• Chart describing the five elements at newconversations.net
• Five Message Worksheet (pdf)

This is one of the weekly activities for a Year of Personal Development.

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I seek to create order from the chaos of complex information. Join me at the Daily PlanIt to gain insights, inspiration, and information to increase skills for a better life. I unlock the power of teaching reading with phonics in the pursuit of literacy at www.phonicspow.com. In my spare time I explore books and movies, often choosing titles available on both screen and page.