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Navigating Grief

No one is every fully prepared for the loss of a loved one. From Kettering Health, “Losing someone or something important is always difficult. Loss changes our world in an instant and suddenly, we’re faced with learning to adjust, to cope, and—namely—to grieve.” 

Even though grief is universal, there is no one way, or correct way of processing the loss.  Because of the deep emotion involved, everyone experiences grief differently and each person's journey is unique, influenced by their individual perspectives, relationships, experiences, and preferences. Some may seek comfort in routines and structure, while others find solace in emotional connections. Understanding and supporting these diverse ways of coping can help us support each other through the challenging process of grief. 

This past weekend, an unexpected tragedy struck my family. In mere moments, shock tore through our lives, and the painful journey of coming to terms with what had happened began. It was only when a few moments of quiet finally presented themselves that I could begin to reflect on my response to this profound loss.  

For anyone who has experienced loss, or if you have been the support for someone who has experienced loss, my hope is that this information provides you with meaningful insights on how our unique Emergnenetics preferences may show up while processing and also coping with grief and loss. 

  

Analytical Preference: 

Processing the Loss: Those with an Analytical Preference may seek to understand the facts surrounding the loss. They might research information about grief stages and try to rationalize their emotions. 

Coping Mechanisms: They may find solace in logical explanations, structured mourning rituals, or by seeking information that provides clear, evidence-based strategies for coping. 

 

Structural Preference: 

Processing the Loss: Individuals with a Structural Preference might need routines and rituals to manage their grief. They may find comfort in organizing memorial services or creating schedules to manage daily life without the loved one. 

Coping Mechanisms: They may find comfort in keeping busy with tasks, maintaining a structured environment, and having a clear plan for each day. This may help them feel more in control during a time of emotional upheaval. 

 

Social Preference: 

Processing the Loss: Those with a Social Preference may seek out the support of friends, family, and community. They value emotional connections and may need to talk about their feelings frequently. 

Coping Mechanisms: Participating in support groups, spending time with loved ones, and engaging in activities that involve helping others can be particularly healing. 

  

Conceptual Preference: 

Processing the Loss: Individuals with a Conceptual Preference might explore the philosophical or spiritual aspects of loss. They may think about the larger meaning of life and death and find comfort in abstract concepts or creative expression. 

Coping Mechanisms: Engaging in creative activities, such as writing, art, or music, and exploring spiritual or philosophical texts may provide comfort and a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. 


Expressiveness: 

1/3 Expressiveness: May grieve more privately and need space to process their emotions alone. They might not readily share their feelings and could find writing or solitary activities helpful. 

 3/3 Expressiveness: May prefer to express their grief openly and may need to talk frequently about their loss. They might benefit from group conversations, talking to friends, or participating in memorial events. 

  

Assertiveness 

1/3 Assertiveness: May allow themselves to experience their emotions without feeling the need to take immediate action. They might prefer gentle support. 

 3/3 Assertiveness: Might actively seek out ways to cope and find solutions. They may organize events, start initiatives in memory of their loved one, or engage in physical activities to process their emotions. 

  

Flexibility 

1/3 Flexibility: May need consistency and predictability in their grieving process. They might find comfort in established traditions and routines. 

3/3 Flexibility: Might adapt to the grieving process in a fluid manner, allowing themselves to experience a range of emotions and finding comfort in varied activities and new experiences. 

Understanding the different Thinking Attributes and Behaviors may help in offering more personalized support to those who are grieving, ensuring that their unique needs and coping mechanisms are acknowledged and respected.  But most importantly, give grace. Under these unexpected and emotionally charged scenarios, sometimes what we (I) need most is comfort and presence, knowing we’re not sitting here alone. 

In loving memory of Julie Gore. 

I also encourage you to review this blog from Emergenetics on grief and loss, after the passing of our founder, Geil Browning, last year: https://emergenetics.com/blog/acknowledging-grief-through-the-emergenetics-attributes/  

   

Understanding how the different Thinking Attributes and Behaviors may process grief and cope on a profound loss, may help us in understanding those who are grieving, ensuring that their unique needs and coping mechanisms are acknowledged and respected.  

But most importantly, give grace. Under these unexpected and emotionally charged times, sometimes what we need most, is comfort and presence, knowing we’re not sitting here alone.

 

In loving memory of Julie Gore. 


I also encourage you to review this blog from Emergenetics on grief and loss, after the passing of our founder, Geil Browning, last year: https://emergenetics.com/blog/acknowledging-grief-through-the-emergenetics-attributes/  




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