Creating psychological distance from our thoughts doesn’t solve our problems, but it does increase the possibility that we will be able to do so at some point. When we zoom in on the chatter, and get stuck – rather than developing the ability to shift between moving into our thoughts and standing back and observing them – we lose perspective. This lack of cognitive fluidity allows the negative voices to step forward loudly, encouraging rumination, stress, anxiety and depression. Psychologist Ethan Kross reveals the hidden power of our inner voice and shows how to harness it to combat anxiety, improve physical and mental health, and deepen our relationships with others.

