Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik cover image

Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik

How to Control Your Emotions & Benefit from Negative Ones with Ethan Kross

Mar 17, 2025
Ethan Kross, an award-winning professor at the University of Michigan and author of 'Shift: Managing Your Emotions', shares his insights on harnessing emotions as tools for success. He emphasizes that emotions, both positive and negative, can be functional when used appropriately. Kross discusses innovative strategies like distant self-talk and mental time travel to better manage feelings. He also highlights the importance of personalized approaches to emotional regulation, encouraging listeners to experiment with various tools for improved well-being.
19:54

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Emotions are essential tools that guide us through life and motivate actions when managed effectively, regardless of their positive or negative nature.
  • Employing strategies like distant self-talk and mental time travel can enhance emotional regulation, fostering clearer perspectives during challenging situations.

Deep dives

Understanding Emotions and Their Function

Emotions serve as essential responses that help individuals navigate the complexities of their lives. They are triggered by meaningful events and manifest as a coordinated set of physiological and psychological reactions. For example, anger arises when one perceives a violation of their expectations, motivating them to address the source of their frustration. Recognizing that both positive and negative emotions can be functional is crucial, as they provide valuable information and inspire action when managed appropriately.

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