In his book “Chatter: The Voice in our Head, Why It Matters, and How to Harness It,” psychologist Ethan Kross describes the intrusive, debilitating power of negative self-talk. Our “inner voices” can literally take us over, creating a dynamic in which we lose control of our emotions and the emerging narratives about ourselves and the world. These narratives are usually narrow, irrational, and highly resistant to change or revision. Interviews of Kross in which he describes his notion of chatter are available on Harvard Business Review’s “IdeaCast” and The Brian Buffini Show. To move away from limiting self-talk and achieve greater control of what and how you think, Kross’s research suggests the value of “self-distancing” as opposed to “self-immersion” inner conversations. He also discusses the tennis player Rafael Nadal’s personal challenges with negative self-talk and how the use of rituals has advanced Nadal’s capacity to control his emotions and achieve high levels of performance. In the next virtual meeting of the Men’s Group Seminar on Saturday, November 6, 2021 (10:15 to 11:30 AM), we will explore Kross’s ideas.

*Registration Directions: If you would like to attend the next virtual meeting of the Men’s Group Seminar on Saturday, November 6, 2021, 10:15 to 11:30 AM, please RSVP to me at 949-338-4388 or jt@jamestobinphd.comno later than Thursday, November 4, 2021.  The fee is $25.00 (payable before entering the virtual meeting) and informed consent for participation in this telehealth event must be completed prior to the seminar. Please note that the Men’s Group Seminar is psychoeducational in nature, not therapeutic, and does not constitute psychotherapy or counseling.