Mindletic Journal Interpretation - Low-energy unpleasant quadrant

How to interpret emotions in the Mindletic journal?

A study by Barrett (1998) shows that emotions are based on a dimensional model, which emphasized two qualities: valence (level of pleasantness) and arousal (bodily activation).

Based on this emotion dimensional model, the Mindletic journal defines emotions as having two dimensions, pleasantness and energy. The horizontal axis is meant to track pleasantness - it represents how pleasant or unpleasant we feel. The vertical axis represents energy: how much physical energy is running through our bodies. The two axes cross to form four quadrants, and each has a color that you can interpret using this guide:

The low-energy unpleasant quadrant (light blue) represents the feelings of sadness, disappointment, discouragement, depression, or loneliness. While lingering on this side of the emotion meter, it is the best time to work on a project by yourself, especially a project including reading, editing, or critical thinking. Being “in the light blue” helps us feel empathy. Being in this quadrant is a good place to be when you need to focus on a detailed task or think carefully about something.

How to move from this quadrant when needed?
Try listening to music, talking with a friend or co-worker, or having a snack or coffee. Use self-talk to remind yourself of the big picture or try positive reframing - putting a positive spin on a situation.