10% Happier with Dan Harris A Surprisingly Effective Way to Deal With Your Inner Critic
38 snips
Aug 8, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, Dick Schwartz, a renowned therapist and founder of Internal Family Systems Therapy, explores the dynamic nature of our inner selves. He explains how different 'parts' of our psyche can either collaborate or conflict, particularly highlighting the role of the inner critic. Schwartz emphasizes self-compassion and the significance of recognizing vulnerable aspects we may suppress. He also intertwines his insights with Buddhist teachings, promoting a healing journey through understanding and kindness towards ourselves.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Mind's Multiple Parts
- Our minds naturally comprise multiple parts or inner voices, each with positive intentions despite potential dysfunction.
- Recognizing and listening to them fosters self-compassion and better internal harmony.
Internal Family Systems Model
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) sees the mind as naturally multiple, with parts shaped by trauma into roles like exiles, managers, and firefighters.
- Healing involves understanding these parts and the Self, a calm essence underlying them all.
Managers and Firefighters Protect
- Managers try to prevent triggering vulnerable exiled parts, often acting like inner critics; firefighters react impulsively to soothe pain.
- Both protectors attempt to manage pain but can cause challenges when extreme.
