Emotional Equations

               The quest to examine emotions, why we have them, how to deal with them, and the best way to view them will empower you.  An invaluable operating manual to explore emotions is entitled Emotional Equations by Chip Conley.  He gives us some simple truths for creating happiness and success.  The main point of the book is that we all have emotions, and when they are handled in a clever way we will have a meaningful happy life.  He quotes Viktor Frankl and Benjamin Franklin with the seeds of wisdom they have given humanity.  He uses prime examples of ways we can step back from our emotions and really weigh the impact of the things that cause us to move forward in life the way we do. 

                This book pointed out that research has shown that a person’s IQ in decision making is ten points lower when they make a decision when they are emotionally charged.  This however makes sense.  I often encourage people to “sleep on it.” when they are making a big decision.  It is also a good idea to not make too many changes in your life when you are going through an emotional time in your life.

                I strongly suggest anyone who would like to step back from their emotional reactive life and really think about what makes us tick emotionally read this book.  The equations such as [Curiosity = Wonder+ Awe] and [Anxiety= Uncertainty x Powerlessness] are explained, and will help me think about the way I feel and decide which way is the best way to act before I react to my emotions.