PLAYING-IT-SAFE 85. Embracing self-acceptance, self-compassion, and self-exploration
We all experience anxiety in some form, in some way, and in some shape. Because anxiety, fears, and worries can be so uncomfortable, we quickly play-it-safe. And when you’re prone to deeply caring for what you do - as high-achievers, strivers, and perfectionists - then the fears of being a failure or not being good enough are amplified.
In this conversation, Annick Seys and I discussed the many layers in which these fears show up and how nourishing your observer-self can shift from self-criticism into self-acceptance, from self-judgment into self-compassion, and from emotional avoidance into curious behaviors.
Cultivating your observer-self isn't just about self-distancing; it is about your well-being and living a purpose-driven life.
Key Takeaways
- How to deal with the gap between expectations and reality
- How to practice self-acceptance
- How to unpack the fear of being a failure in the moment
- How to understand the fear of being a failure
- The problem with toxic positivity
- Relational Frame Theory of Language
- How to nourish your observer-self
- Understanding the observer-self
- The power of curiosity
- Self-compassion on-the-go
Show notes with time stamps
00:31 Understanding Fear-Based Reactions
01:00 The Struggles of Time Management
01:07 Dealing with Disappointments and Failures
05:31 Exploring Self-Acceptance
06:01 The Ongoing Exercise of Self-Acceptance
11:45 Unpacking the Fear of Failure
14:12 The Impact of Toxic Positivity
17:47 Tapping into the Observer Self
18:01 Exercises to Connect with the Observer Self
20:50 Understanding the Observer Self
24:03 Experiencing Different Moods
26:11 Relating to Past Experiences
29:59 Overcoming the Fear of Failure
(*) Show notes and resources of this episode
(*) Learn ACT skills for anxious achievers by taking Dr. Z. ACT courses
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.