It's Okay to Feel All the Feels

 

A little while ago, I went to see *Inside Out 2* with my grandchildren. Like many Pixar movies, I expected a fun afternoon. What I didn't expect was such a thoughtful portrayal of emotions and, in particular, anxiety.

 

The story follows Riley as she enters her teenage years, a time when fitting in suddenly feels incredibly important. New situations, friendships, expectations and self-consciousness all collide, and anxiety arrives to try to keep her safe.

 

The problem is that anxiety doesn't just want a seat at the table—it tries to take over.  As I watched, I realised this isn't just a story about teenagers. How many of us have walked into a networking event where we know no one? Started a new job? Joined a gym? Returned to study? Moved into a new community? Started again after a major life event?

 

Suddenly that familiar voice appears:

 

What if I don't fit in?

 

What if everyone else knows what they're doing?

 

What are people thinking about me?

 

It doesn't really matter whether you're 14, 44 or 64. Those feelings can show up at any age. We often hear people say, "I don't care what anyone thinks anymore." That's a wonderful place to reach, but I suspect many of us still care, at least sometimes. And that's okay .

 

The lesson I took from *Inside Out 2* wasn't that anxiety is bad. Anxiety has a purpose. It can help us prepare, protect us from genuine danger, and encourage us to think ahead.

 

The problem comes when anxiety becomes the loudest voice in the room.

 

When anxiety takes control, it drowns out curiosity, joy, confidence, hope, excitement and even calm.

 

Our world becomes smaller because we stop listening to the emotions that help us grow.

 

Whether you're changing careers, returning to the workforce, stepping into retirement, becoming a carer, or simply trying something new, remember this:

 

It's okay to have all the feels.

 

Feel nervous.

 

Feel excited.

 

Feel uncertain.

 

Feel hopeful.

 

Your emotions are part of being human. Just don't let anxiety convince you it has to drive. Let it be one passenger among many, while your values, experience and courage stay firmly in the driver's seat.

 

Growth rarely happens when we feel completely comfortable.

 

Sometimes the most important step is taking the next one, even while your heart is beating a little faster.