Feelings Quote by Mark Epstein
““We reduce, concretize, or substantialize experiences or feelings, which are, in their very nature, fleeting or evanescent. In so doing, we define ourselves by our moods and by our thoughts. We do not just let ourselves be happy or sad, for instance; we must become a happy person or a sad one. This is the chronic tendency of the ignorant or deluded mind, to make “things” out of that which is no thing.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Thoughtful Presence, 2015
We turn fleeting emotions into fixed identities, defining ourselves by moods rather than allowing fluid experience, which limits authentic self-understanding.
In simple terms: We label feelings as permanent traits, restricting true self-awareness.
Key Takeaway
Embrace emotions without labeling them as identity.
Themes
psychology
mindfulness
identity
philosophy
self-awareness
Mood
reflective
calm
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
self-help
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- mindfulness practice
- personal reflection
- creative writing
Key Concepts
impermanence
self-concept
cognitive bias
emotional intelligence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does labeling feelings affect mental health?
- Can we experience emotions without self‑identifying them?
A Different Perspective
Oversimplifying emotions can ignore their nuanced, changing nature.
