The High Performance Podcast Brian Pennie: How to Pause and Create Space During Emotionally Challenging Events | HP Circle
Nov 4, 2022
Brian Pennie shares his transformative journey from heroin addiction to becoming a doctor in neuroscience and psychology. He emphasizes the power of self-awareness and emotional regulation in tackling life’s challenges. Listeners learn the importance of creating a pause between stressors and their reactions, which can lead to clearer thinking and better emotional health. Drawing on personal stories and Eastern philosophy, the discussion offers practical wisdom for navigating difficult times with resilience and acceptance.
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Control Your Response
- Focus on what you can control: your words, actions, attitudes, beliefs, and responses.
- Many stressors (others' actions, external events) are outside your control, so accept them.
First and Second Darts
- Life throws "first darts" (inevitable pain like loss or hardship), but suffering comes from "second darts".
- Second darts are our reactions, like anger or guilt, which trigger further negative reactions.
Lockdown Argument Example
- During lockdown, tension with a partner escalates into an argument, affecting the whole family.
- This initial reaction triggers guilt, sadness, and further conflicts, illustrating the chain reaction of "second darts".