Emotions are an inevitable part of the human experience. They come in all shapes and sizes, sometimes overlapping and conflicting, leaving us perplexed and unsure of how to navigate through them. But what if I told you that it’s okay to have multiple, countless emotions at the same time? It’s normal, and it’s a valuable space to be in.

Recently, I watched the movie Inside Out with my grandkids, and it served as a reminder that we are capable of experiencing more than one big emotion simultaneously. In the film, sadness and joy coexist as the young protagonist learns to embrace them both. It got me thinking about the beauty and complexity of our emotional landscape.

Often, we strive to push away sadness, anger, or fear, believing that we should only focus on happiness and positivity. However, suppressing our emotions can lead to mental and emotional instability. Instead, let us give ourselves permission to acknowledge, express, and explore the full spectrum of our emotions.

Sometimes, sadness may come knocking at our door, even during moments when we desire happiness. It’s essential to recognize and honor these emotions, even if they seem contradictory. We can experience happiness and sadness simultaneously, or any other combination of emotions. We can be thrilled about new experiences while still feeling sad about the changes they bring.

Just as there is light within darkness, there is also a touch of darkness on the brightest days. This blend of emotions is perfectly normal. Having these varied experiences makes us who we are — vibrant, multifaceted beings capable of joy, sadness, fear, excitement, and so much more. This understanding allows us to live fuller, richer lives.

As we head into the fall, we may feel sadness as daylight hours wane, but let’s also try to find joy in what is to come. It’s okay to have both emotions. It’s okay to cry, be emotional, and equally okay to embrace happiness. Naming and understanding our feelings can aid our emotional journey, helping us navigate challenging times.

I encourage you this week to take a moment to recognize and embrace your emotions, no matter how conflicting they may seem. Allow yourself to feel all the feels, and remember — it’ll be okay, and it’s entirely fine to be all over the place.

It’s okay to experience the full spectrum of your emotions.

Stay strong and be kind to yourself.