Brené on Comparative Suffering, the 50/50 Myth, and Settling the Ball
Mar 27, 2020
27:44
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Exploring strategies for coping with weariness, navigating post-crisis phases, and fostering empathy and self-compassion. Highlights include settling the ball metaphor, family gap plans, sincere apologies, and the power of humor in family dynamics.
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Quick takeaways
Normalize feelings of weariness and acknowledge the shift from crisis mode to long-term challenges.
Avoid comparative suffering, embrace empathy, and practice vulnerability for deeper connections and emotional resilience.
Deep dives
The Importance of Normalizing Exhaustion and Weariness
In the podcast episode, Brené Brown discusses the prevalence of exhaustion and weariness in society, especially during times of crisis like the current pandemic. She highlights the need to normalize these feelings and acknowledge the loss of normalcy that occurs after the adrenaline surge of a crisis ends. Brown emphasizes the importance of recognizing the shift from crisis mode to a prolonged period of challenges, requiring a change in mindset for long-term coping strategies.
Family Gap Plan for Nurturing Relationships and Managing Stress
Brown introduces the concept of a 'Family Gap Plan,' emphasizing the significance of strong relationships and support systems during tough times. She shares a personal anecdote about creating a plan with her husband to address the imbalances in giving and receiving support within a relationship. The plan includes strategies such as ensuring sufficient sleep, physical activity, healthy eating, and reducing exposure to negative news. Brown advocates for open communication, empathy, and setting realistic expectations in relationships to navigate challenges effectively.
Combatting Comparative Suffering and Cultivating Empathy
The podcast delves into the dangers of comparative suffering and the impact of fear and scarcity on individual experiences. Brown explains how comparing one's own challenges to those of others can diminish self-compassion and empathy. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and processing one's emotions without judgment. Brown highlights that empathy is not a finite resource but grows through compassion towards oneself and others. By practicing empathy and embracing vulnerability, individuals can foster deeper connections and emotional resilience.
We have collectively hit weary. This is especially true for the brave folks on the front lines of this pandemic and for the people who love and support them. And it’s also true for all of us. In this episode, I talk about strategies for falling apart, staying connected and kind, and giving ourselves permission to feel hard things.