Unlocking Psychological Flexibility with Dr. Steven Hayes
Nov 27, 2023
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Psychological flexibility expert Dr. Steven Hayes discusses the power of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in hacking our thoughts, building habits aligned with our values, and achieving psychological freedom. He explores the importance of setting values-based goals, navigating the modern world, and catching and observing our thoughts. The episode provides actionable steps and additional resources for listeners to apply these concepts to their own lives.
Developing a modern mind helps navigate challenges by using problem-solving and other modes of mind, embracing life's process rather than viewing it as a problem to be solved.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) promotes psychological flexibility by relating effectively to thoughts and emotions, taking action aligned with core values, and living a fulfilled and authentic life.
Deep dives
Creating Modern Minds for the Modern World
The modern world challenges us in ways far beyond what our grandparents experienced. Constant exposure to tragedy and insecurity can make us feel anxious and overwhelmed. However, by developing modern minds, we can navigate these challenges more effectively. This involves learning to use our problem-solving mind when helpful, but also knowing when to rein it in and use other modes of mind. It means putting our lives in perspective, seeing the world as a process to be lived rather than a problem to be solved. By doing so, we can face life's difficulties with greater resilience, focus on what truly matters, and build lives that are truly meaningful.
The Power of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a powerful and evidence-based form of psychotherapy that emphasizes mindfulness, acceptance, and values-based methods. Developed by Dr. Steven Hayes, ACT helps individuals learn how to relate more effectively to their thoughts and emotions, and to take action in alignment with their core values. With ACT, individuals can develop psychological flexibility, being open, aware, and actively engaged in the present moment. ACT has been successfully used in various contexts, from therapy to working with Olympians, professional athletes, and elite performers across different fields. ACT offers a valuable framework for personal growth, resilience, and living a fulfilled and authentic life.
The Problem of Comparisons and Living a Process-Oriented Life
In today's world, we often compare ourselves to others and hold ourselves up to impossible standards. Whether it's comparing our lives to what we see on social media or constantly striving for more, this mindset of comparison can lead to discontentment and a sense of never being good enough. Instead, we can shift towards living a process-oriented life, where we focus on the present moment and fully appreciate what is in front of us. By embracing a mindset of curiosity and wonder, we can learn to savor the small joys, appreciate our own unique journey, and let go of the need to constantly compare and compete. This shift allows us to find fulfillment and meaning in the here and now, rather than waiting for some future achievement or external validation.
Embracing Psychological Flexibility
Psychological flexibility is a key aspect of living a fulfilled and meaningful life. It involves being open to our thoughts and emotions, accepting them without judgment, and actively engaging in the present moment. This flexibility allows us to navigate life's challenges with resilience and adaptability. Rather than trying to eliminate negative thoughts or seek constant comfort, we can embrace and learn from them. By recognizing our values and aligning our actions with what truly matters to us, we can build a life that is authentic and purpose-driven. Psychological flexibility provides a powerful framework for personal growth, self-compassion, and creating a life worth living.
Hop on this journey toward a liberated mind in this throwback episode with Dr. Steven Hayes.
Dive into the mind-bending world of psychological flexibility with a throwback episode featuring the legendary Dr. Steven Hayes. Originally released three years ago, this gem quickly became a fan favorite, boasting not just high downloads but also an impressive listen time— a testament to its transformative impact.
In this episode, we unravel the secrets of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as Dr. Hayes masterfully guides us through the art of hacking our thoughts, building habits aligned with our core values, and creating a life that's authentically ours. Imagine outsmarting your inner critic and achieving true psychological freedom!
Whether you're new to ACT or revisiting its power, this episode is your ticket to unleashing your full potential.
Get ready for mind flexing, habit hacking, and a sprinkle of Dr. Hayes' signature wit. It's time to rewrite your mental script and embrace a life of psychological agility. This episode is a game-changer, and the stats don’t lie!
If you don’t have time to listen to the entire episode or if you hear something that you like but don’t have time to write it down, be sure to grab your free copy of the Action Plan from this episode— as well as get access to action plans from EVERY episode— athttp://www.JimHarshawJr.com/Action.
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