Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety

Psychologist Carmichael (Dr. Chloe’s 10 Commandments of Dating) offers advice and practices for channeling undirected energy in her accessible guide for high-functioning people. According to Carmichael, high-functioning people (those with “markers of personal and professional achievement” such as a great spousal relationship or a “career that brings fulfilment”) often struggle with nervous energy and anxiety that keep them from “get[ting] to the next level” and fulfilling their ambitions. She provides a “menu” of nine key practices for controlling nervous energy, including three-part breathing, mental shortlists for moving from “swirling thoughts” to productive action, mind maps for listing goals and ambitions, and designated worry time. Such exercises, she argues, give high-functioning people the control they desire and the boundaries they need to constructively direct their energies. The vignettes that begin each chapter and Carmichael’s strategies for daily integration of key techniques make this an engaging and easy-to-implement guide. Those looking for ways to tame distraction and calm inner turmoil will want to give this a look. (Mar.)