Confused - #FeelingsMatter

In this episode of #FeelingsMatter, hosts Michelle Stinson Ross, Tina Schweiger, and Heather Hampton explore the emotion of confusion - that feeling of being bewildered, unclear, or unsure what to do. The conversation examines whether confusion is primarily a thinking state or an emotion, how people typically respond to feeling confused, and how confusion can manifest in relationships. The hosts also discuss the concerning connection between persistent confusion and manipulative relationship dynamics, offering resources and insights for healthier responses to this common emotion. Episode Highlights: Tina suggests confusion blends thinking and feeling, noting that people often say "I am confused" (active state) rather than "I feel confused," and observes it can trigger mild anger similar to frustration The hosts contrast two common responses to confusion: either giving up ("throwing up your hands") which often involves negative self-judgment, or approaching it with curiosity and optimism Michelle shares that her deepest experiences of emotional confusion occur in relationships, particularly when someone says one thing but behaves differently, making it difficult to understand what's true The conversation takes a serious turn as the hosts discuss the "weaponization of confusion" in narcissistic relationships, with Michelle noting that frequent confusion in one specific relationship may be a warning sign of manipulation or gaslighting Tina recommends resources for handling confusion more effectively, including "The Four Agreements" (particularly "not making assumptions" and asking questions) and Byron Katie's "Loving What Is," which helps with accepting uncertainty Podcast theme music by Dubush Miaw from Pixabay This episode of the #FeelingsMatter Podcast was recorded and produced at MSR Studios in Saint Paul, MN.Copyright 2025, all rights reserved. No reproduction, excerpting, or other use without written permission. This episode is sponsored by FeelWise - bridging the gap between reflection and resilience, offering practical tools to help people overcome obstacles, embrace change, and grow stronger emotionally. https://www.feel-wise.com/ Don’t miss a moment of the conversation, subscribe to the show on your favorite podcasting platform Podcast theme music by Dubush Miaw from Pixabay This episode of the #FeelingsMatter Podcast was recorded and produced at MSR Studios in Saint Paul, MN. No reproduction, excerpting, or other use without written permission. This episode is sponsored by FeelWise - bridging the gap between reflection and resilience, offering practical tools to help people overcome obstacles, embrace change, and grow stronger emotionally. https://www.feel-wise.com/ Don’t miss a moment of the conversation, subscribe to the show on your favorite podcasting platform