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


(*) Receive free weekly science-based, compassionate, and
actionable skills to stop ineffective playing-it-safe


(*) Figure out your playing-it-safe profile in 5 minutes
and identify the key thinking strategies that keep you living in
your head


(*) Learn ACT skills for anxious achievers by taking Dr.
Z. ACT courses


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