How to 'shift' your emotions

Approach

Psychologist and neuroscientist Ethan Kross challenges the myth of universal emotional confrontation, suggesting that strategic avoidance can be beneficial. He explains that sometimes stepping away from a problem allows for a clearer perspective and reduced emotional intensity, making it easier to address later 1. This approach is particularly useful in interpersonal dynamics, where giving space can lead to smoother interactions 2.

You don't have to choose between only confronting immediately or avoiding chronically. You can go back and forth, and that can be useful for you much of the time or some of the time.

--- Ethan Kross

Kross emphasizes that the key is knowing when to approach or avoid emotions, using a framework to guide these decisions.

   

Emotions

Ethan Kross draws parallels between emotions and physical pain, highlighting their protective and informative roles. Just as physical pain prevents further injury, emotions provide valuable information about our experiences 3. However, they become problematic when experienced too intensely or for too long.

All emotions, even the quote unquote bad ones, provide us with information that can be useful.

--- Ethan Kross

Kross's book offers research-backed strategies to process emotions effectively, preventing them from becoming overwhelming or stagnant.