Actions Follow Emotions — Unless They Don’t

I was humming in the office one morning when a colleague came up to me and asked why I was so happy. Puzzled for a minute, I asked him what made him think I was happy. He chuckled a little and said, “You’re singing. You must be happy if you’re singing!”

That made me stop and think a bit. Was I happy, and that’s what prompted my singing? At that time, I was not especially happy with my life (well before I discovered coaching). As I thought about his question, though, I realized I was feeling happy at that moment. So is it possible I was feeling happy because I was singing?

Singing does have transformative power and can create genuine happiness. Here’s why:

• Singing as an Emotional Release:
  Singing is recognized as a powerful emotional outlet. It provides a channel for expressing complex emotions- joy, sadness, frustration, or love. When you sing, you engage your vocal cords, breath, and body to create a harmonious symphony and allow pent-up emotions to flow freely. Through this process, you experience a sense of catharsis and relief, contributing to overall emotional well-being.
  
  
• The Mind-Body Connection:
  Research has shown that singing impacts physical and mental well-being. When you sing, your body releases endorphins, dopamine, and oxytocin – the “feel-good” chemicals. These neurotransmitters play a vital role in regulating mood, reducing stress, and promoting happiness. Singing acts as a bridge between your emotions and your physical state, boosting your overall sense of well-being.
  
  
• Connection and Belonging:
  Often, singing occurs in communal settings, such as choirs or group performances. Group singing fosters a profound sense of connection and belonging. When you join your voice with others, you synchronize your melodies, hearts, and minds. This shared experience creates a powerful sense of unity, reinforcing social bonds and enhancing feelings of happiness and fulfillment.
  
  
• Self-Expression and Authenticity:
  Singing allows you to express yourselves in a way that transcends words, unlocking emotions that may have otherwise remained hidden. Embracing your true voice cultivates a sense of self-acceptance and empowerment, contributing to a deeper level of happiness rooted in authenticity.

“I don’t sing because I’m happy. I’m happy because I sing.”

Emotions following actions. It happens. Try it yourself. Just start singing and see! And here’s another secret: It works when you smile, too.

When was the last time you caught yourself singing ‘for no reason’ and felt happy because of it?