Ethan Cross, a psychology professor, delves into the concept of chatter, where our inner voice turns negative, hindering our problem-solving abilities. He emphasizes the need to distance ourselves from our problems to gain perspective and offers strategies to tame the negative inner voice for a happier life.
Harnessing the Inner Voice: Strategies for Mental Well-being
Cross discusses tools for managing chatter, such as using your own name or the second person pronoun to gain a different perspective on problems. He highlights the benefits of temporal distancing, where people envision how they will feel about current issues in the future, to reduce anxiety and broaden thinking.
Seeking Support: Effective Ways to Address Emotional Issues
Cross explores the role of relationships in managing chatter, noting that venting to others can provide temporary relief but may not address underlying issues. He suggests a balance between emotional expression and cognitive reframing in conversations to gain insights and broaden perspectives.
Nature's Influence: The Power of Green Space in Reducing Chatter
Cross reveals how connecting with nature can help restore attention depleted by chatter and induce feelings of awe that diminish personal worries. By immersing in nature and experiencing awe, individuals can gain a broader perspective on life's challenges, easing emotional turmoil.
Psychology professor Ethan Kross is an expert on the science of introspection, and the role our inner voice plays in shaping our sense of well-being. While our inner voice has a lot of benefits, it can sometimes turn negative and lead to what Ethan calls “mental chatter.” In this episode, we discuss science-based strategies for how to rein in our mental chatter so we can live happier, healthier lives.