In his book "The Obstacle Is the Way," Ryan Holiday discusses the nature of emotions and how they affect our responses to adversity. He suggests that emotions are only truly beneficial when they can lead to constructive change in our circumstances. If an emotion fails to contribute to problem-solving or improvement, it might be deemed unhelpful or even harmful.

This perspective encourages readers to evaluate their emotional reactions critically. Recognizing emotions that do not serve a purpose can aid in personal growth and resilience. By focusing on emotions that align with actionable change, individuals can better navigate challenges and turn obstacles into opportunities for advancement.