Why We Cannot Simply “Choose Happiness” (And What We CAN Choose!)

Emotions are not light switches. You cannot simply turn them on or off just because you (or somebody) would like to.

Being told (or telling others) to calm down, cheer up, or get over it is dismissive and unhelpful. There is no direct mechanism for selecting your emotions.

The biggest problem is that this type of command is outcome based - become x new emotion now. But without a process for changing your emotions you may do more harm to your current emotional state.

I'm sharing with you that process here. Get Practical tools for navigating life with depression and anxiety, delivered weekly. https://mailchi.mp/90ccaf44c876/self-hope-psychology My book: For When Everything is Burning https://bit.ly/forwheneverythingisburning Organize your day around your mental health goals with Sunsama https://bit.ly/DrScottSunsama (affiliate link) The app I use to learn core principles from thousands of nonfiction books in minutes http://shortform.com/drscott (affiliate link) Connect with me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.scott.eilers Therapy with me (Iowa residents only) http://www.northstarpsychcenter.com/ Work with me (Non-Iowa residents) http://www.drscotteilers.com/ Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a replacement for receiving treatment. It is purely educational in nature. My relationship with you is that of presenter and audience, not therapist and client. But I do care.