10 Reminders to Help You Control Your Emotions Better

Look, emotions can be downright irrational. They’re like that one friend who insists on drama at every brunch, zero chill, all chaos.

And while we all know emotions are part of being human, letting them control every decision and reaction? Hard pass.

So, if you’re tired of feeling like your emotions are running the show, let’s talk about how to regain control, step-by-step. Here’s your personal, no-BS guide to mastering emotional self-control.

1. Stop Giving a Damn About Other People’s Opinions

Here’s a tough pill to swallow: what others think about you says way more about them than it does about you.

Let me tell you, I used to be a professional people-pleaser, treating every passing opinion like it was gospel. Then I realized… most people are just projecting their own issues, insecurities, and unsolicited advice. Stop letting their opinions mess with your head.

Once I stopped trying to impress people who didn’t matter, life got way more fun—and honestly, I even liked myself more.

2. Build Your Own Worth Like It’s LEGO

Think of your self-worth like a LEGO set: every compliment, every little win, every “you’ve got this” builds you up brick by brick.

When I started actively reminding myself why I rock (even if that sounds a bit self-indulgent), I noticed I didn’t need other people’s approval nearly as much. I validated myself. Thank you very much.

Know who you are, know what you bring to the table, and don’t wait for someone else to tell you you’re awesome. Self-confidence is homemade.

3. Not Every Comment Deserves Rent in Your Brain

Have you ever met someone who treats every comment like a life-or-death decision? I used to be that person. Now, I just call it what it is—noise.

Not every bit of feedback is worth your time. Focus on the constructive stuff and let the rest roll off like water on a duck’s back. Think about it: most people giving you “feedback” aren’t exactly experts in your life, so why let their words live in your head rent-free? If it’s not helpful, toss it.

4. Don’t Let Your Emotions Hold The Remote

Emotions are like Netflix. Sometimes they’re fun and dramatic, other times they’re just… too much.

Practicing emotional detachment is like learning to watch a show without letting it take over your entire night (or week). Instead of letting every feeling take you on a joyride, observe it.

I literally started saying to myself, “Oh, I see you, anger!” It sounds weird, but it helps. By naming and acknowledging the emotion, I can respond calmly instead of reacting like I’m on a soap opera.

5. Flip the Script on Negative Situations

Alright, so imagine you’re running late, and someone decides to give you a lecture about time management (the nerve). Instead of spiraling into shame or defensiveness, try reframing the situation.

I like to think of annoying encounters as free resilience training. Every time I handle criticism constructively, I’m basically leveling up in life.

6. Hang Out with People Who Appreciate Your Company

Some people are energy vampires, and if you keep letting them suck the joy out of you, there won’t be much left. Surrounding yourself with positive people is a game-changer.

When I made an effort to hang out with people who actually supported me, I noticed my confidence went way up.

You know those people who hype you up just because? Stick with them. Their positivity will rub off on you, and you’ll start seeing yourself through their eyes—capable, strong, and ready to take on the world.

7. Focus On Your Own Growth Story

Comparison is the thief of joy. You’re on your own unique journey, so why waste time measuring it against someone else’s?

I remember scrolling through social media and feeling like I was always playing catch-up. Then it hit me: comparing my reality to someone’s highlight reel is just silly. Instead, I focus on my progress and my wins, even if they’re small.

The less you’re obsessed with what others are doing, the more energy you’ll have to invest in your own growth. Trust me, it’s worth it.

8. Adopt a Stoic Mindset and Chill Out

Stoicism might sound like something only ancient philosophers cared about, but it’s actually genius for modern life.

Stoicism 101: You can’t control other people or situations; it’s just your reaction.

This mindset has saved me so much stress. Whenever someone says something rude or things don’t go as planned, I remind myself that their actions are out of my hands. I can only control how I respond.

It’s like emotional jiu-jitsu—using life’s little annoyances to get stronger instead of letting them take you down.

9. Embrace Your Inner Weirdo and Love Every Bit of You

Let’s get real: no one’s perfect, and pretending you are is exhausting.

Learning to accept myself—flaws, quirks, awkward dance moves and all—was probably the best decision I ever made.

Self-acceptance means external criticism doesn’t hit as hard because I’m already comfortable in my own skin. Sure, I have days where I feel like a disaster, but I’m my own favorite disaster. Life’s a lot more fun when you’re cool with who you are, mess and all.

10. Hype Yourself Up

Listen, if you’re waiting around for someone else to cheer you on, you’re missing out.

I started talking to myself like I would to a friend—yes, with pep talks and all. “You’ve got this. You’re doing great. Let’s crush this day!” It felt silly at first, but after a while, I noticed I didn’t need outside validation as much

 Positive self-talk is the most underrated skill. It’s like having your own personal hype team available 24/7. Be your own biggest fan, you’re worth it.