Deep Questions with Cal Newport cover image

Deep Questions with Cal Newport

Ep. 264: IN-DEPTH: How to Master Change (with Brad Stulberg)

Sep 4, 2023
In this conversation, Brad Stulberg, an expert on human performance and resilience, shares insights from his book, 'Master of Change.' He discusses the necessity of embracing change as a continuous process, highlighting 'rugged flexibility' as a strategy for adapting to life's uncertainties. Stulberg emphasizes the interplay between personal values and identity during transitions and explores how resilience can be fostered through varied identities. The duo also critiques the evolving nature of work and the impact of technology on our professional lives.
01:20:03

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Rugged flexibility is crucial for navigating change and finding stability in life.
  • When faced with major changes, it is important to shift perspectives and embrace the new, taking small actions in the new direction.

Deep dives

Rugged Flexibility: Embracing Change and Finding Stability

Rugged flexibility is the key to navigating change and finding stability. It involves being adaptable while holding onto core values. Change is an ongoing process, and stability comes from being able to change. The traditional idea of homeostasis, returning to a baseline, is not accurate for healthy systems. Stability is always somewhere new. Fear is a common response to change, but trying to suppress or ignore it only prolongs distress. Taking small actions and seeking support from others can help overcome fear. Developing multiple aspects of our identity and diversifying our sense of self can also contribute to stability in times of change.

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