Thursday, October 15, 2026

What’s Working

For readers looking for what’s still working in the world

ResilienceUpworthy

Psychologists say the easy ‘Third-Person’ method helps you get over tough emotions quickly

In a fascinating exploration of emotional regulation, psychologists have pinpointed a simple yet effective strategy: third-person self-talk. This approach involves mentally stepping back from one's immediate emotional experience by referring to oneself in the third person. This small shift in perspective can lead to significant reductions in emotional brain activity, as evidenced by studies where participants showed decreased emotional responses when they adopted this technique. By creating a psychological distance, individuals can analyze their feelings with greater clarity and calm, a method that promises to enhance emotional resilience and decision-making.

The power of this method lies in its accessibility and ease of use. Unlike some therapeutic strategies that require extensive practice or professional guidance, third-person self-talk can be employed instantly, offering immediate relief from overwhelming emotions. This technique not only aids in handling present emotional turmoil but also provides a lens for reflecting on past experiences with less distress, thereby fostering a healthier emotional outlook and encouraging thoughtful responses rather than impulsive reactions.

Constructive analysis

The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.

The problem
The challenge of managing intense emotions and avoiding reactive behavior.
The actions
Psychologists have developed and tested the third-person self-talk method as a tool for emotional regulation.
Evidence of progress
Studies show decreased emotional brain activity when individuals use third-person self-talk, indicating reduced emotional distress.
What we can learn
This technique is an effective, immediate, and accessible way to manage emotions, which others can adopt for better emotional health.
PERMA profile of this story

How this story scores across the PERMA dimensions.

Positive Emotion
7
Engagement
8
Relationships
5
Meaning
6
Accomplishment
7
PERMA

Character strengths in play

Top VIA strengths this story embodies.

  • Perspective

    By creating a psychological distance, individuals can analyze their feelings with greater clarity and calm.

  • Curiosity

    Researchers discovered this third-person hack by showing study participants emotionally disturbing images and asking them to react in different ways.

  • Hope

    This method promises to enhance emotional resilience and decision-making.

Try this today

Next time you feel overwhelmed by emotion, try referring to yourself in the third person. For example, instead of thinking 'Why am I upset?', ask 'Why is [Your Name] upset?'. Notice any changes in your emotional response and clarity of thought.