Ethan Kross, the best-selling author of "Chatter", has now released another excellent book entitled, "Shift: How to Manage Your Emotions so They Don't Manage You." I was immediately interested in this book just based on the title. Kross begins his text with the following definition of what an emotion is: "emotion is an umbrella term that describes a loosely coordinated response that includes what we feel, think, and experience in our bodies to events we judge meaningful." We typically see our emotions as bad or unhelpful, but the author encourages his readers to harness them for helpful purposes. There are several warning signs to watch for that tells us when we're not using our emotions to our advantage: we can't stop thinking about our problems, we find ourselves chronically relying on substances, and we are constantly seeking reassurance.

Finally, Kross encourages his readers to change how we think about things, which will in turn change our emotions. This process is typically referred to as reframing. "Shift" had a lot of practical advice and useful information. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Ethan Kross, renowned for his insightful exploration of the human mind in “Chatter,” returns with another compelling work, “Shift: Managing Your Emotions—So They Don’t Manage You.” This book is a myth-busting, science-based guide that delves into the intricacies of emotion regulation, offering readers practical tools to harness their emotional power.

Kross begins by challenging common misconceptions about emotions, such as the belief that avoidance is always harmful or that living in the moment is the ultimate goal. Instead, he presents a nuanced view, arguing that emotions are neither inherently good nor bad but are vital sources of information that can guide our decisions and actions when managed effectively.

The book is structured around a series of riveting stories and cutting-edge research. Kross introduces us to a diverse cast of characters, from a mother whose quick thinking during a flight saved her daughter’s life to a Navy SEAL who learned to embrace both joy and pain during grueling training. These narratives are not just engaging but serve to illustrate the practical applications of Kross’s theories.

Kross doesn’t just explain the science behind emotion regulation; he provides readers with concrete strategies to implement in their daily lives. Whether it’s techniques for reframing negative thoughts, leveraging social connections, or creating environments that foster emotional well-being, Kross equips readers with a toolkit for managing their emotions effectively.

Kross’s writing is accessible and authoritative. He has a knack for breaking down complex psychological concepts into digestible insights without oversimplifying. His background as a leading psychologist and director of the Emotion and Self-Control Laboratory at the University of Michigan lends credibility to his advice, making this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their emotional intelligence.

“Shift: Managing Your Emotions—So They Don’t Manage You” is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and master their emotional life. Ethan Kross combines scientific rigor with compelling storytelling to create a guide that is both informative and inspiring. Whether you’re dealing with everyday stressors or navigating major life challenges, this book offers the tools you need to take control of your emotions and, ultimately, your life.