Since the beginning of humanity, we have struggled to cope with emotions. It seems we've tried everything: leeches, exorcism, burning witches, trepanation of the skull. Today we act more gently. But the problem remains the same: burnout, loneliness, obsession with anxiety and anger. We spend millions on the happiness industry — and still cannot befriend our feelings. Yet they influence so much: who we fall in love with, who we hate; they give us new strength or, conversely, take away our energy.
This book contains strategies that will help you better control your emotional life and understand yourself and others more deeply. Ethan Kross presents fresh research results, myths about emotions, real-life stories — from the trials of "Navy SEALs" and bedbug infestations to rock ballads of the 80s and anaphylaxis at ten thousand feet.
The most important thing — are the practices for every day. Kross provides techniques for switching attention, cognitive reframing, setting up space and social interactions. By mastering them, you will learn to quickly exit destructive states, strengthen resilience and mindfulness, improve relationship quality, and achieve your goals.
The book is useful for those who struggle with obsession over anxiety, anger, or guilt, with burnout and conflicts, who feel a disconnect between knowing "what to do" and automatic behavior.