Based on how often I engage in an activity, though, I realized that I was overlooking what must be my favorite hobby - procrastination. I don't get a lot of joy out of it, but considering I do it every day, usually many times each day, it must really fill some need in my life. Though I try to do it less and less, it still lingers in my life like the refrain from a song you can't get out of your head.

Do you procrastinate? Probably a little, right? Or maybe procrastination isn't the negative habit you deal with daily. It might be anger, low self-esteem, depression, or worry. There are many ways negative and self-defeating habits can creep into your life.

My goal isn't to talk about how I procrastinate, but rather to focus on the fact that we all deal with negative emotions on a daily basis. These negative emotions manifest themselves differently for each of us, but they are present in everyone’s lives.

Too often we let these feelings isolate us and we feel that we are the only ones who experience these states. Well, we are all human, and we all experience the highs and the lows of life. I've worked with a number of people who have all felt that their negative emotions are unique and somewhat embarrassing. What is important to understand is that wrestling with these negative emotions is a normal experience that we all go through.

So next time you are in a low place, understand that it doesn't make you any less of a person for being there.   One of the most insidious effects of negative emotions is that they are so isolating.  One of the best ways to combat this negativity is to see the interconnectedness of everything – we’re all in this together.  By seeing those connections, you’ll be able to pull yourself out of the trap of negative emotions.  Ask for help if you need it; reach out to others.