Dive into a captivating conversation where Ryan Shelton shares his journey through feelings of jealousy and shame in pursuit of success. He reveals how uncovering his true purpose has liberated him from a cycle of inadequacy. Explore the emotional significance of competition and the importance of open communication in friendships. The discussion on finding joy through vulnerability highlights the transformative power of authenticity. With reflections on growth and anticipation for future adventures, this dialogue truly resonates.
Ryan Shelton emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in addressing personal struggles, which fosters connection and encourages reflection among listeners.
The episode highlights the pressures of comparing oneself to others, illustrating how jealousy and shame can impact personal relationships and self-worth.
Ryan advocates for seeking professional help, reinforcing that therapy is beneficial for all individuals in fostering self-understanding and mental well-being.
Deep dives
The Importance of Vulnerability
The episode emphasizes the significance of being vulnerable and open about personal struggles. The hosts discuss their desire to help listeners by sharing their imperfections and the challenges they face, illustrating that everyone has their battles. This openness fosters a connection with the audience, providing relatable insights and encouraging listeners to reflect on their own lives. By addressing their vulnerabilities, they create a space for dialogue about mental health and well-being.
Personal Experience with Performance Pressure
The conversation shifts to Ryan's experience with athletics and the pressure he feels as a 39-year-old competing against younger athletes. He recounts a humorous yet painful moment when he pushes through a race despite injuring his hamstring, motivated by the presence of his father and child. This anecdote highlights the tendency to prioritize external expectations and fear of failure over personal well-being. It serves as a reminder for listeners to acknowledge their limits and the importance of self-care.
Old Friends, New Realizations
The discussion delves into Ryan's friendship with Hamish Blake, reflecting on their careers and the dynamic between them. Ryan shares feelings of envy and self-doubt related to Hamish's success, revealing how these feelings have affected their friendship. Through candid conversation, Ryan learns the importance of addressing these feelings and communicating openly with friends about insecurities. This moment showcases growth and the potential to strengthen relationships through honesty.
Identifying and Overcoming Shame
A pivotal moment in the episode is when Ryan discusses his shame and how it influenced his perception of self-worth. Conversations with his mentor, Ben Crow, lead him to understand that the shame he feels stems from unrealistic comparisons and personal expectations. Identifying his purpose in spreading joy and inspiration through creativity becomes crucial in alleviating this burden. This insight encourages listeners to examine their own feelings of shame and consider how to redefine their self-worth.
The Value of Therapy and Support
The episode concludes with an important highlight on the value of seeking professional help for mental health. Ryan shares his positive experience with therapy, emphasizing that therapy can benefit anyone, regardless of their mental health status. It reinforces the notion that talking about one's feelings and experiences can lead to deeper self-understanding and growth. The advocacy for therapy serves as a call to action for listeners to prioritize their mental well-being and be open to seeking help when needed.
This special, end-of-season episode sees co-host Ryan Shelton step into the interviewee's chair. Ryan talks about his bold career ambitions, and the complex feelings of jealousy and shame when he didn't feel like he was successful enough and how uncovering his purpose has freed him from the vicious cycle of feeling inadequate.
If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we strongly recommend lifeline on 13 11 14. For more info please visit: theresilienceproject.com.au/podcast/