How Emotions Are Made

Lisa Feldman Barrett's research in 'How Emotions Are Made' shows that emotions are not universally experienced. What we feel is largely influenced by our culture, upbringing, and personal experiences. So, the way you experience happiness or sadness might be different from someone else.

Barrett argues that emotions are not hardwired into our brains, but are constructed based on our experiences. This means that our emotions can change and evolve over time. So, if you're struggling with certain emotions, it's possible to change how you feel.

In 'How Emotions Are Made', Barrett explores the role of the brain in creating emotions. She explains that our brains create emotional responses based on our past experiences and the information we have at hand. This means that our brains are constantly predicting and creating our emotional responses.

Barrett's book also digs into the impact of language on our emotions. She suggests that the words we use to describe our emotions can shape how we feel. So, by expanding our emotional vocabulary, we can better understand and manage our emotions.

In her book, Barrett also looks into the link between emotions and our physical health. She suggests that understanding and managing our emotions can lead to better health outcomes. So, if you're looking to improve your health, it might be worth taking a look at your emotional wellbeing.