When we identify our feelings specifically, we are able to learn how to respond and take care of those emotions more accurately. Not only is it helpful for others to understand what is going on inside of us, it is helpful for us to know what is going on inside of ourselves.
![emotional wheel emotional wheel](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/76/d5/9c/76d59cfcf703bc554ecbdc2bf21a20a8.jpg)
That’s way better than the “frustrated” answer, right? These more specific emotions are what you can explain to others so that they have a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing. After choosing the most accurate core emotion, you can use your finger to identify the more specific emotions that you connect with on the outer edges of the circle. With a Feelings Wheel, the core emotions are at the center of the circle-which is the easiest place to start. Secondary emotions encompass any other emotion. Core emotions are happiness, sadness, disgust, fear, surprise, and anger. The eight-pack gets you by with the necessities, while the 64-pack can be a blend of multiple emotions that provide a more specific label (for example, yellow vs. Increased relief comes with increased specificity in identifying our emotions and empathizing with them.Ĭore emotions can be seen as the eight-pack of crayons and secondary emotions are the 64-pack. Aren’t those other secondary emotions more honest and accurate though? A Feelings Wheel allows us to open up instead of hiding behind what is the easy or standard answer. But really, it was my answer to explain my negativity without having to be vulnerable. My go-to feeling when I was a teen was “frustrated.” It was my answer when I was hurt, anxious, insecure, disappointed, or powerless. So, what’s the point? The more specific your student can be in labeling their emotions, the more understanding you will have for them and they will have for themselves. To get a better picture, a Feelings Wheel is a circle that at the center has “core” or basic emotions (emotions that are more easily identified or expressed) and more complex or “secondary” emotions on the outer edge. Although it may seem a bit extra, a Feelings Wheel is a way to work smarter, not harder, with teenagers when identifying and managing emotions.
![emotional wheel emotional wheel](https://www.behappyresources.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pizza-Feelings-Wheel-Feelings-Wheel-for-Kids-1.png)
You might be thinking, “ What in the world is a Feelings Wheel, and what makes it practical for my everyday life?” A Feelings Wheel is a tool used to help recognize and communicate feelings. Sometimes having clarity about your emotions allows you to accept them for what they are and is sufficient enough for you to move forward.I know. This can mean changing your routine, doing activities that boost your mood, talking to a friend about what’s been going on, or writing in your journal about it.
![emotional wheel emotional wheel](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/51/e4/94/51e49496968ea134006f24ce912a6ab2.jpg)
Giving words to those feelings can help you feel more in control of them. Look at the wheel and go through the list of emotions to find one or more that describes that feeling. Name your emotion: Maybe you had a bad day at work.