Ethan Kross, a psychologist at the University of Michigan, shares insights on emotional regulation—one of life’s essential skills. He discusses how self-talk can combat fear, drawing from a harrowing astronaut story. Kross introduces personal writing and music as powerful tools for mood regulation. He emphasizes the importance of selective avoidance to break emotional spirals. With anecdotes from various individuals, he highlights that emotional management techniques are not one-size-fits-all, but rather a toolbox for navigating life’s ups and downs.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Dad's Emotional Driving Outburst
Ethan Kross observed his dad, calm in many situations, become aggressive and reckless when driving in Brooklyn due to perceived injustices on the road.
This contrast illustrated how emotional regulation can vary greatly depending on context.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Ethan's Airport Confrontation
Ethan confronted a man at an airport who was rude to an airline worker, leading to Ethan's own emotional outburst and later regret.
This showed how even experts struggle with emotional hijacking triggered by perceived injustice.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Astronaut's Self-Talk in Crisis
Astronaut Jerry Lininger used self-talk in a life-threatening fire on the Mir space station to calm himself and take effective action.
His coaching himself helped manage fear and focus on survival.
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Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don't Manage You
Ethan Kross
In 'Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don't Manage You', Dr. Ethan Kross presents a comprehensive approach to emotional management. Drawing from his extensive research, Kross offers practical strategies to help individuals control their emotions rather than being controlled by them. The book addresses common myths and provides evidence-based techniques to enhance emotional well-being.
On the Origin of Species
Charles Darwin
Published on November 24, 1859, 'On the Origin of Species' by Charles Darwin is a seminal work in scientific literature. The book presents a comprehensive theory of evolution, arguing that species evolve over generations through the process of natural selection. Darwin supported his theory with evidence collected during his voyage on the HMS Beagle, as well as from subsequent research, correspondence, and experimentation. The book addresses the struggle for existence, the variability of species, and the principle of divergence, explaining how natural selection leads to the adaptation and diversification of life on Earth. It has been a cornerstone of evolutionary biology and has had significant impacts on both scientific and public discourse[2][4][5].
Do you feel like you control your emotions, or do your emotions control you? What scientists call "emotion regulation" turns out to be one of the most important life skills we can possess. It's essential in dealing with setbacks, in balancing risks and rewards, and in maintaining successful relationships. This week, psychologist Ethan Kross explores the growing and fascinating science of managing our emotions. He explains why our feelings so often go astray, and shares insights into how to reel them back in.
In this episode, you'll learn:
*How to coach yourself through emotionally intense moments.
*Why certain types of personal writing can help with your thorniest problems or challenges.
*How to use music and your physical senses to regulate your mood.
*How to use the technique of "selective avoidance" to shortcut emotional spirals and "what if" thinking.
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