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 TakeawaysHow to deal with the gap between expectations and realityHow to practice self-acceptanceHow to unpack the fear of being a failure in the momentHow to understand the fear of being a failureThe problem with toxic positivityRelational Frame Theory of LanguageHow to nourish your observer-selfUnderstanding the observer-selfThe power of curiositySelf-compassion on-the-goShow notes with time stamps00:31 Understanding Fear-Based Reactions01:00 The Struggles of Time Management01:07 Dealing with Disappointments and Failures05:31 Exploring Self-Acceptance06:01 The Ongoing Exercise of Self-Acceptance11:45 Unpacking the Fear of Failure14:12 The Impact of Toxic Positivity17:47 Tapping into the Observer Self18:01 Exercises to Connect with the Observer Self20:50 Understanding the Observer Self24:03 Experiencing Different Moods26:11 Relating to Past Experiences29:59 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.