Brad Stulberg, a researcher and author focused on sustainable excellence and mental health, discusses the concept of rugged flexibility as a framework for mastering change. He emphasizes embracing adaptability to drive personal growth and navigate life's challenges. The conversation covers the importance of balancing determination and flexibility, the spectrum of emotions we encounter, and practical strategies for cultivating resilience, including sustainable meditation practices. Stulberg advocates for community support and the organic unfolding of meaning during tough times.
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insights INSIGHT
Allostasis vs. Homeostasis
Achieve stability through change, not by resisting it.
This concept, called allostasis, contrasts with homeostasis, which aims for stability through sameness.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Life as a Path
Treat life like a path, not a road.
A path requires attention to the environment and allows for detours, unlike a rigid road.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Update Expectations
Frequently update your expectations to match reality.
This reduces negative emotions and promotes skillful action during change.
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Master of Change, How to Excel When Everything is Changing, Including You
Brad Stuhlberg
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
Robert Pirsig
This classic novel by Robert M. Pirsig is a personal and philosophical odyssey that delves into the author's search for meaning. The narrative follows a father and his son on a summer motorcycle trip from the Midwest to California, intertwining a travelogue with deep philosophical discussions. The book explores the concept of 'quality' and how it informs a well-lived life, reconciling science, religion, and humanism. It also touches on the author's own struggles with his past and his philosophical quest, making it a touching and transcendent exploration of human experience and endeavor.
Tao te ching
Laozi
The Tao Te Ching is a central text in Taoist philosophy and religion. It consists of 81 brief chapters or sections that discuss the nature of the Tao, which is described as the source and ideal of all existence. The text emphasizes living in harmony with nature, the importance of simplicity, humility, and the interconnectedness of all things. It critiques unnatural actions and social activism based on abstract moralism, advocating for a life of 'nonaction' (wu wei) and spontaneity. The text has been highly influential in Chinese philosophy and has been translated numerous times, making it one of the most translated texts in world literature[2][3][4].
A Path With Heart
A Guide Through the Perils and Promises of Spiritual Life
Jack Kornfield
This book is a definitive guide to the practice of traditional mindfulness in America, particularly within the context of American Buddhism. It covers a wide range of topics including the fundamentals of spiritual practice, the stages of insight, dealing with personal issues such as abuse and self-loathing, and the role of psychotherapy in spiritual growth. Kornfield uses personal stories, practical techniques, and guided meditations to help readers navigate the complexities of spiritual life and achieve inner peace, wholeness, and understanding. The book is designed to be a universal guide for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice and live an authentic life[2][3][5].
For Brad Stulberg, the idea of rugged flexibility became a central theme in his understanding of change and resilience. In this episode, Brad and Eric explore what mastering change when everything is changing looks like. They also discuss practical strategies to navigate life’s challenge with rugged flexibility to live a more meaningful life.In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover the power of embracing change and adaptability for personal growth and success
Uncover the secrets to navigating change and finding deeper meaning in life’s transitions
Learn how to strike a perfect balance between determination and adaptability to thrive in any situation
Unlock the key to shifting your perception of time during challenging moments and emerging stronger
Explore the importance of rugged flexibility and its impact on resilience and mental strength