How many times have you heard the expression – it is better to vent and get things out? Maybe people think venting is preferable … because we all know that to hold rage in is to work against your own well-being. 
As far as the brain goes though... it’s like swallowing a bottle of Clorox and hoping the toxins don't take out too many organs along the way.
People assumed that the opposite to becoming a victim to tough times or abusive people … is to vent. But is it really?
People who vent actually:
1. Grow dendrite brain cell connectors to vent even faster next time
2. Create a pattern in their brain’s basal ganglia so that anger comes out more whenever they are stressed
3. See fewer answers and sustain fewer friendships than people who reflect... say nothing ... or give thoughtful responses
4. Cause conflicts that spread to other people through negative venting practices
5. Shut down learning and blind themselves and others to possibilities that would solve the problem ... because of the cortisol hormone that increases through venting
Is venting really better? For most of us ... it seems easier ... comes faster ... and even appears justified. Maybe it even makes you feel better for a moment or two. In reality... venting is a learned behavior, that comes more naturally to some mental dispositions than others.
No question though … in the long term venting is not your brain's best solution … that's if you plan to hold onto a health, keep good friends or develop leadership skills. What do you think?
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Employers for years have told us they look for enthusiasm in people they hire… workers gravitate to positive people who inspire them … and research tells us how boredom is a serious problem that limits all we do or say.... [Read More]
Tracked on: January 26, 2007 7:00 AM | Permalink to Trackback