The Four Emotions That Hijack Your Story
But they’re supposed to be occasional messengers. Not permanent co-authors. They were meant to pass through our story from time to time. But we have a way of asking them to stay around longer.
The Six Core Emotions
Psychologists have identified six basic emotions that all humans share:
Happiness – helps us bond, rest, and feel safe
Sadness – helps us reflect, learn, and grow after loss
Fear – keeps us alert and alive
Disgust – protects us from what might harm us
Anger – rises when something’s unjust or out of line
Surprise – wakes us up and helps us pay attention
These emotions aren’t bad.
They’re good.
They’re ancient.
They’re here to serve you—not control you.
In fact, trying to avoid them is often how we get stuck in the first place.
But Four of Them Can Overstay Their Welcome
Sadness.
Fear.
Disgust.
Anger.
These emotions are loud for a reason.
They’re trying to get your attention.
They interrupt your life to say:
“Hey. Something’s not right. Pay attention.”
But they’re supposed to be occasional messengers. Not permanent co-authors.
They were meant to pass through our story from time to time.
But we have a way of asking them to stay around longer than we need them.
And when we don’t let them leave?
They hijack our story.
What Happens When They Linger Too Long?
Sadness turns into despair.
Fear turns into paralysis.
Disgust turns into contempt.
Anger turns into self-destruction.
These emotions are only supposed to stay long enough to give you clarity.
But when you set up camp in them, they stop being helpful.
They start writing your script.
Emotions Are Meant to Move
That’s not just poetic—it’s literal.
The word “emotion” comes from the Latin root for “movement.”
They’re supposed to move you.
To get your attention, push you toward growth, warn you when something’s wrong.
But they were never meant to trap you in a loop.
Feel It. Name It. Release It.
This isn’t about “getting over it.”
It’s about moving through it.
Emotions are messengers.
You’re the author.
And you get to decide what happens next.
Let the feeling come.
Let the message land.
Then thank it for the warning—and take back the pen.
Because the moment you remember you’re the author of your one and only story?
That’s when happiness can move in for an extended stay.
Well said and great advice!