|
|
|
| |
| |
Even though I wrote a book about tackling imposter “syndrome” (side note—it’s not actually a syndrome so let’s call it imposterism from here on out) I still struggle with it mightily. So who am I to help you with yours? In the book I say, “Isn’t that a little like trying to teach you how to be tall when I’m only 5’ 3”? Maybe.” But the problem isn’t having imposter thoughts (most of us do), it’s how we respond to them that counts.
I was recently asked to write another ACT book—and turned it down because I decided to take a stab at writing fiction instead. WHAT? But I’m not a fiction writer! How dare I? Who do I think I am?
Thanks, Sheila, you hard-working inner critic, you. I see you trying to protect me from failure and humiliation. But my values of creativity, lifelong learning, challenge, skill-building, and perseverance are going to guide my way here.
I attended a writer’s conference in Chicago where I felt like a total fraud. But I made space for my anxiety and detached from unhelpful narratives. In return, I learned a TON and connected with successful writers and agents.
I may not feel like a “real” fiction writer (yet!). But psychological flexibility helps me move my feet in the directions that bring me closer.
How might you respond to imposterism differently? What do you need to make space for? What self-limiting beliefs do you need to unhook from? How and where might you move your feet in directions that matter to you?
Stay tuned for news on my upcoming book about tackling imposterism. |
| | | |
| |
| |
Clinician’s Corner
If you are a clinician who wants to enhance your use of experiential practice in therapy, I have an on-demand virtual course (6 CEs) called “Breakthrough ACT Techniques & Experiential Exercises: A Clinical Roadmap to Help Clients Overcome Psychological Distress.” Click here for more information or to access the course.
If you are looking for in-person ACT training, I highly recommend this weekend immersion workshop with amazing trainers Shawn Costello Whooley, PsyD and Staci Martin, PhD. Click here for more information or to register.
My feel-goodie of the month
After interviewing Kelly Leonard on my podcast, I decided to take in a show at Second City in Chicago with my old friend Susie and new friend Doug. Here we are still smiling after two hours of laughing together. |
| | | |
| |
The Fun Habit with Mike Rucker
We all want to live a fun and fulfilling life, but the hustle and bustle of everyday life can leave us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. That’s why it’s so important to make time for fun, even as an adult. From reducing stress to better relationships and improving mental and physical health, carving out time for fun activities can have a transformative impact on many aspects of our lives.
Mike Rucker, an organizational psychologist, is here to share his best practices for incorporating fun habits into our day-to-day lives. Illustrating scientific evidence from his book, The Fun Habit: How the Pursuit of Joy and Wonder Can Change Your Life, we discover why fun is beneficial and what fun habits you can create to make life more enjoyable. So, let’s dive in and learn why fun isn’t just for kids—it’s an essential part of adult life too. |
| | | |
| |
Yes, And: Improv in Psychology with Kelly Leonard
Let’s talk about the magic that is improvisation, or what us cool kids call “improv.” It’s an art form that’s all about unleashing your creativity and performing without a script or plan. Sure, you may have heard of it as a side-splitting comedy act, but improv goes a lot deeper than that. From acting to business to mental health, improv skills can be applied in various areas of life.
Enter Kelly Leonard, the VP of Creative Strategy, Innovation, and Business Development at the infamous Second City in Chicago. Kelly, who over the decades has produced hundreds of original revues with comedians such as Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, and Seth Meyers (to name a few) has a unique understanding of behavioral science through the lens of improv.
Regaling us with lessons and stories from his career and book, ‘Yes And’, we learn how to utilize improv to help us adapt, empathize, communicate, trust, and collaborate better. We are reminded that saying ‘yes’ to new ideas and experiences sparks creativity and can lead to beneficial outcomes. From deepening our relationships with others by practicing active listening and learning to accept and appreciate new ideas, regardless of their origin. It also teaches us to think on our feet and work together to create innovative solutions to problems. |
| | | |
| |
The contents of this newsletter are for informational and educational purposes only. The newsletter is not intended to be a substitute for professional psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are struggling, seek the services of an appropriate mental health professional. |
| | | |
|