Purpose and Managing Emotions with Dr. Ethan Kross

Recently, I had a lively discussion with Ethan Kross during our “Mental Health Month is Over. Now What?” webinar. I always come out of a conversation with Ethan Kross feeling energized. He’s the real deal – a renowned scientist studying the right things in the right way. Ethan dives into one of the most difficult yet important issues we’re facing personally, and in our organizations today: namely, how to keep our heads on straight during difficult times.

Ethan’s book Chatter synthesizes hundreds of studies – many from his own Emotions and Self Control Lab at the University of Michigan – to help real people better manage their emotions. One of the learnings from our research together is this: purpose in life is very connected with emotional self-management and resilience.

The most purpose-associated coping strategies – like seeing the big picture, engaging in a family or religious ritual, and communing with nature – are also the most effective strategies for coping with stress!

These evidence-backed go-to strategies clearly outperform others like indulging in drink, over-eating, venting to others, and hiding our feelings when it comes to coping with challenging emotions.

And here’s the kicker: people with stronger purpose in life are far more likely to use the effective strategies, and far less likely to lean into the less adaptive ones. They show greater resilience, and better emotional self-regulation.

Toward the end of our conversation, Ethan commented on the use of science (or lack thereof!) in many real-world vendor solutions. He lamented how he sees many “experts” recommending ineffective or even harmful approaches to build emotional regulation and mental health in employer-based programs. There’s a strong and growing science that supports the stuff that works – and we at Kumanu keep it real by following this science. We hope you do too!

Stay purposeful my friends!

Vic