Emoji’s are Shallow – A Tool to Feel Deeply 1

“To feel deeply we need to ensure time is granted and permission was

given to investigate.”

Penny Webb

I was at work today and my daughter, who is currently on school holidays in Melbourne hanging with her brother (having a ball), just sent me a photograph of some terrific new shoes she bought.  What did I do?  I sent her an Emoji – a smiley face one (not even very creative) – while in the bathroom in the rush of the in-between meetings mode!

I find it interesting that Emojis have become so much a part of our fast-paced, everyday life to express how we are feeling about something posted on a friend’s social media page or to respond to a text to a family member.

We have to give them some credit – they are convenient because they are timesaving, BUT they are also limited in their expression.

I feel:

• Surprised
• Fearful
• Angry
• Disgusted
• Sad
• Happy, and of course…
• So much laughter, I am crying!!

To know our true emotions, we need to give ourselves two things:

1. We need to give ourselves time, and
2. We need to give ourselves permission to investigate the full range of emotion

So that we understand ourselves better, for ourselves and those around us.

Here’s a cool little tool to help you further examine your feelings for yourself, or perhaps with your children.

So, next time when my child shares with me that she has purchased a new pair of shoes, on her own, in a big city, and they look hot – perhaps I need to let her know a little bit more than a smiley-face Emjoi can express.

“I’m feeling very proud of your success right now sweetheart.  Well done.  Can’t wait to see them on you.”

No Regrets!

Penny