Faux feeling A judgement of myself
Competent
Not a feeling: a judgement of yourself.
‘I think I have the skill to do this well.’
Why it’s not a feeling
Competent is a verdict on yourself: you have the skill to do this well. It grades your ability, the way a teacher might, and grades are thoughts about what you are rather than states inside you. When that verdict is there, notice what comes with it, perhaps confidence or a steady satisfaction.
Feelings underneath
Needs
When these needs are met
Saying it as a feeling
‘I feel competent.’
When I fixed the leaking tap using only the instructions in the manual, I felt confident and satisfied, because I need competence and effectiveness.