Conversations from the Heart #75 - Letting Go of Normal
Today's conversation with Julia and Meka explores the problems with being "normal" and recommends strategies for being authentic and real, instead. The idea of being "normal" can be misused to keep people compliant and obedient - but this isn't always the "healthiest" or wisest move.
Additionally, this episode features some discussion on the way domination systems use the concept to uphold existing power structures via moralistic judgements of "good/bad" and "normal/abnormal".
A takeaway: Instead of asking "Is this normal?" try asking instead "Is this working for me?"
- 3:10 How can I remind others how I want to engage?
- 7:30 Care for the impact vs. responsibility for others' reactions.
- 11:30 What is "normal"?
- 14:26 What the concept of normal is used for.
- 15:32 Why we want to inspire change.
- 18:55 Just because something is normal doesn't mean it's healthy.
- 22:20 The way domination systems use the idea of "normal" to enforce obedience and conformity.
- 30:30 The difference between normal and healthy.
- 35:02 The benefit of embracing our authenticity.
- 39:02 Questions we can ask ourselves to reflect
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