The Power of Action in Shaping Our Emotions
Created at: June 17, 2025
Don’t wait for your feelings to change to take the action. Take the action and your feelings will change. — Barbara Baron
The Principle of Behavioral Activation
Baron’s quote introduces a transformative psychological principle: rather than waiting for emotions to shift before acting, we can act first and let our emotions catch up. This approach underpins behavioral activation therapy, often used to treat depression, where individuals engage in meaningful activities even if motivation is lacking. By taking action, people frequently find that their mood and outlook naturally improve over time.
Historical Roots of Action Preceding Feeling
This concept is not new; it echoes William James’ seminal work in psychology. In his book ‘The Principles of Psychology’ (1890), James asserted that actions can influence emotions: ‘We do not run because we are afraid; we are afraid because we run.’ Through this lens, initiating positive behaviors sets in motion a feedback loop that can shift our internal states, often more reliably than waiting for feelings to change on their own.
Overcoming Procrastination and Inertia
One of the major obstacles to self-improvement is the tendency to procrastinate, waiting for the elusive spark of motivation before beginning. By choosing to act regardless of current feelings, individuals bypass this paralysis. For example, someone reluctant to exercise learns that simply putting on workout shoes and starting a gentle walk can trigger an eventual sense of accomplishment and well-being, demonstrating that action is a powerful antidote to inertia.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Practice
Cognitive-behavioral therapists often rely on this concept to help clients break negative cycles. Clients are encouraged to engage in activities that align with their values, even when feeling indifferent or resistant. Over time, these behaviors reinforce positive emotions and self-efficacy, highlighting that meaningful change is often sparked by action, not waiting for the 'right mood.'
Practical Applications in Everyday Life
Ultimately, Baron’s insight has wide-reaching applications. Whether confronting anxiety before public speaking or battling creative blocks, starting with small, concrete actions—like writing a single sentence or making eye contact—can shift internal resistance. As action begets feeling, individuals discover they possess more agency over their emotional landscape than previously imagined, fostering both resilience and empowerment.