The Positive Power of Negative Emotions

The pursuit of happiness is universal. Most of us would like to experience more joy and elation. But when we feel like we are falling short of this ideal, we can often feel downcast. We may even see 'darker' emotional states, from sadness and anger to envy and anxiety, as character defects or serious illnesses.

In fact, there is unexpected value in the emotions most of us see as 'negative'. In subtle ways, the more negative emotions can bring us to a richer state of wellbeing. For example, sadness can open our hearts to the fragile beauty of life, enabling us to appreciate what we would usually take for granted. While anger may seem unpleasant, if channelled well, it can be a great catalyst for change and improvement in society.

THE POSITIVE POWER OF NEGATIVE EMOTIONS shows how the darker states of emotion are vital to a better understanding of ourselves and a more fulfilled life.

Short-listed for British Psychological Society Book Award 2017 (UK)

“This book is far more than an argument for tolerating bad feelings. Drawing on philosophy, the arts, psychology and personal experience, Tim Lomas shows how sadness, anxiety, anger and the rest can be a path to growth. His surprisingly uplifting message is that learning to harness our negative emotions will expand our capacity for joyA truly inspirational new book - Daily MailAlthough we might not want to face our feelings of fear, sadness, and loneliness, these are the body's warning lights. In this useful and enjoyable book, Tim Lomas shows how our feelings give us the clues for how to make a better life. Learn to listen to your inner voice of wisdom - Professor Stephen Joseph, author of Authentic: How to be yourself and why it matters”

This book is far more than an argument for tolerating bad feelings. Drawing on philosophy, the arts, psychology and personal experience, Tim Lomas shows how sadness, anxiety, anger and the rest can be a path to growth. His surprisingly uplifting message is that learning to harness our negative emotions will expand our capacity for joy

A truly inspirational new book - Daily Mail

Although we might not want to face our feelings of fear, sadness, and loneliness, these are the body's warning lights. In this useful and enjoyable book, Tim Lomas shows how our feelings give us the clues for how to make a better life. Learn to listen to your inner voice of wisdom - Professor Stephen Joseph, author of Authentic: How to be yourself and why it matters

Dr Tim Lomas is one of Europe's leading experts on positive psychology and the programme leader at the University of East London's MSc in Applied Positive Psychology (one of the most highly respected post-graduate courses in Europe). He has written for the Guardian and has published numerous academic papers in high-profile journals, including Psychology, Public Policy and Law, Mindfulness, Psychology and Health and the Journal of Happiness Studies. His first book The Positive Power of Negative Emotions was published in 2016.

The pursuit of happiness is universal. Most of us would like to experience more joy and elation, but when we feel like we are falling short of this ideal, we can often feel downcast. We may even see 'darker' emotional states, like anger and envy, as character defects or serious illnesses. In The Positive Power of Negative Emotions , Dr Tim Lomas reveals that these 'negative' feelings are not only normal and natural, but may in fact serve as pathways to the very happiness and flourishing that we seek. Anger can signal that you've been treated unfairly and push you towards change. Guilt suggests that you have let yourself down, and drives you to be better. Envy can motivate you to improve yourself and your life. Boredom can be a gateway to creativity and self-transcendence. Loneliness allows your authentic voice to be heard, and teaches self-sufficiency. The Positive Power of Negative Emotions will be your guide to using your darker feelings to discover what you really want and the person you want to be. It will radically change the way you think about your emotional life, and empower you to use your negative feelings in positive ways.

The pursuit of happiness is universal. Most of us would like to experience more joy and elation. But when we feel like we are falling short of this ideal, we can often feel downcast. We may even see 'darker' emotional states, from sadness and anger to envy and anxiety, as character defects or serious illnesses.In fact, there is unexpected value in the emotions most of us see as 'negative'. In subtle ways, the more negative emotions can bring us to a richer state of wellbeing. For example, sadness can open our hearts to the fragile beauty of life, enabling us to appreciate what we would usually take for granted. While anger may seem unpleasant, if channelled well, it can be a great catalyst for change and improvement in society. THE POSITIVE POWER OF NEGATIVE EMOTIONS shows how the darker states of emotion are vital to a better understanding of ourselves and a more fulfilled life.

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