Naomi Rothman, a psychologist at Lehigh University specializing in mixed emotions, shares her insights on ambivalence and its complexities. She discusses how feeling both happy and sad can affect our perceptions and relationships, especially in leadership roles. With personal anecdotes, she highlights the societal preference for decisive leaders and the often misunderstood nature of mixed emotions in professional settings. Rothman emphasizes that embracing this emotional complexity can enhance creativity and enrich our connections with others.

We've all been in situations where we experience mixed emotions. Maybe you've felt both joy and sadness during a big life decision, such as whether to purchase a home or accept a job offer. Or maybe you've experienced mixed feelings about the ways the COVID-19 pandemic has shaped your life. Psychologist Naomi Rothman says that while these feelings of ambivalence are uncomfortable, they can also serve us in important ways. If you like this show, please check out our new podcast, My Unsung Hero! And if you'd like to support our work, you can do so at support.hiddenbrain.org.