Anger is often viewed as a negative emotion that is typically associated with violence. While aggression is destructive, anger is a normal human emotion that is designed to promote survival, provide a sense of control, motivate us to solve problems, make us aware of injustice, drive us toward our goals, and inject optimism.

Awarded the 2013 Distinguished Early Career Researcher Award by the American Psychological Association, Todd Kashdan dives deep into the surprising benefits of anger and the many ways it pushes people to go beyond what they are capable of and pursue their desired rewards. Through his book “The Art of Insubordination,” Todd also offers an essential guide for those who are seeking to be heard, make a change, and rebel against an unhealthy status quo.

In this episode, Darius and Todd discuss the value of anger, the advantages of giving and receiving critical feedback, the benefits of creating mental space, the demerits of social mobility, and the ways to bridge integrity and flexibility.

Topics include:

The challenges of growing up without a father figure

How Todd got into writing at a young age

Giving and receiving feedback effectively

Curiosity and insubordination

The surprising benefits of anger

The three elements that can improve the quality of life in difficult situations

The two forms of self-talk and their benefits

Ways to create more psychological space

Todd shares the story behind his new book “The Art of Insubordination”

The consequences of social mobility on relationships and overall well-being

Psychological flexibility with integrity

And other topics…


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