Ep377 - Barry Michels | The Tools: Transform Your Problems into Courage
Sep 1, 2023
auto_awesome
Psychotherapist Barry Michels discusses his book 'The Tools' with co-author Phil Stutz. They present four tools for dynamic change, including controlling impulses, embracing emptiness, self-mastery and leadership, and the impact of self-restraint on society. They also share a powerful visualization exercise and explore the interconnectedness of individuals.
Controlling impulses through self-restraint not only brings personal growth and freedom but also enables individuals to have a positive influence on others and be better leaders.
The Black Sun tool, a visualization technique for controlling impulses, allows individuals to tap into inner emptiness, harness limitless energy, and impact others positively by directing this energy outward.
Deep dives
The Tools: A Unique Approach to Psychotherapy
The podcast episode features psychotherapist Barry Michaels discussing his book, 'The Tools', which he co-authored with psychiatrist Phil Stutz. The book introduces four effective tools for bringing about dynamic change and understanding the human condition. Michaels shares his frustration with traditional therapy and the development of a methodology that taps into the power of the unconscious to address persistent problems. The tools have garnered attention, with a high-powered and creative clientele seeking treatment. The book aims to help readers realize their potential, leading to exceptional lives of resilience, happiness, and understanding.
Controlling Impulses and Gaining Freedom
Michaels emphasizes the importance of controlling impulses and the benefits it brings. He describes impulses as attempts to fill an inner emptiness, which can lead to self-indulgence and hinder personal growth. By using the Black Sun tool, individuals can restrain their impulses and experience a sense of freedom. This self-restraint also cultivates confidence and credibility, allowing individuals to make and fulfill commitments to themselves. Michaels explores how self-control extends beyond personal gains and can positively influence those around us, making us better leaders and empowering us to have a meaningful impact on others.
The Power of Self-Restraint in Society
The podcast episode emphasizes the relevance of self-restraint in our society, which appears to lack impulse control. Michaels challenges listeners to be the change they wish to see in the world by mastering self-control. He highlights the connection between societal institutions and the importance of personal restraint. Individuals are encouraged to use the Black Sun tool to control impulses, creating a ripple effect that can positively influence the wider society. Michaels ends the discussion with a powerful visualization exercise, envisioning a collective commitment to self-restraint and spreading the radiant energy of self-control throughout the world.
Bringing the Black Sun Tool to Life
In the podcast episode, Michaels introduces the Black Sun tool, a visualization technique for controlling impulses. He guides listeners through the tool's steps, which include depriving oneself of the desired impulse, turning inward to embrace inner emptiness, visualizing a rising Black Sun filling with warmth and limitless energy, and ultimately directing this energy outward to impact others positively. Michaels offers practical tips for learning and applying the tool effectively, encouraging individuals to start with small temptations, persist through initial challenges, and recognize the benefits of self-restraint, such as freedom, confidence, and leadership.
Psychotherapist Barry Michels visits Google to discuss his book “The Tools,” which he co-authored with psychiatrist Phil Stutz. The book presents a uniquely effective set of four tools that bring about dynamic change in the present and impart a greater understanding of the depth and complexity of the human condition. “The Tools” addresses the most common complaint patients have about psychotherapy: the interminable wait for change to begin. Barry Michels, an LA-based therapist, was frustrated by his inability to bring his patients faster relief from the issues that plagued them. He found a mentor in Phil Stutz, a psychiatrist who years before devised a methodology that arose from a similar disenchantment. The traditional therapeutic model sets its sights on the past, but Stutz and Michels employ exercises that access the power of the unconscious and effectively meet the most persistent problems people face--and the results are electrifying. Stutz and Michels are much sought-after--a recent profile in The New Yorker touted them as an "open secret" in Hollywood--and treat a high-powered and creative clientele. This book transcends the typical self-help genre because of its paradigm-changing material, the credibility of its authors, and the instant appeal and empowerment of its message. With “The Tools,” Stutz and Michels allow you to realize the full range of your potential. Their goal is nothing less than for your life to become exceptional—exceptional in its resiliency, in its experience of real happiness, and in its understanding of the human spirit. Visit YouTube.com/TalksatGoogle to watch the video.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode