We live in a culture that tells us that some emotions are bad. Unfortunately, these same “bad” emotions are unavoidable for anyone aiming to live a meaningful life. As a result, many of us spend much of our lives in conflict with our own emotions, stuck in self-narratives that no longer serve us. Thankfully, on this episode of Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu, Harvard Psychologist Susan David shows us a way out of this self-destructive internal conflict. She explains how to use your “negative” emotions to connect with your core values (which you can learn more about by taking this quiz here: http://quiz.susandavid.com/s3/eai ). She also discusses the dangers of focusing on being right, the power of self-compassion and importance of emotional agility. This episode is brought to you by: Butcher Box: Go to ButcherBox.com/IMPACT to reserve your spot on their waitlist. You’ll get an email when they’re ready to take your order. Skillshare: Explore your creativity at skillshare.com/impacttheory for 2 free months of Premium Membership. Blinkist: Go to https://blinkist.com/impact to start your FREE 7 day trial AND get 25% off a Blinkist Premium Membership.   SHOW NOTES:   Emotions are data but they are not directives [1:33] How we approach our thoughts, emotions and stories determines our quality of life [3:48] What do you do when you realize the stories you tell yourself no longer serve you? [6:26] Our culture tells us some emotions are bad, so we get in conflict with our emotions [11:50] Only dead people never feel stress, anger, agitation or fear [14:15] How do you uncover what your emotions are really trying to tell you? [17:35] Technology has outstripped our ability to thrive [20:32] Susan explains how to understand your emotions in a more specific way [22:53] Our minds can convince us that we are right, even if it destroys our relationships [28:04] Susan describes the process of recognizing our emotions and stories for what they are [31:39] Even if the gods tell you that you’re right, you still have to decide who you want to be [33:46] Being seen and belonging are core human needs [36:35] Tom and Susan discuss the “tyranny of positivity” [38:30] Success is living a life concordant with your values [41:43] Susan shares the impact she wants to have on the world [47:08]   QUOTES:   “Some of our stories were written on mental chalkboards at age 3.” [5:53]   “Our thoughts, our emotions and our stories aren’t good or bad. They just are.” [10:53]   “Discomfort is the price of ambition to a meaningful life.” [14:43]   FOLLOW:   WEBSITE: susandavid.com  INSTAGRAM: https://bit.ly/3eyCLaP  FACEBOOK: https://bit.ly/2ZMoP9d  TWITTER: https://bit.ly/2XdezFp