How to Be an Adult

When current events are so constantly upsetting, how do we remain informed without descending into despondency? In this timely episode, Luke shares how he consumes the news while remaining hopeful: It’s possible to be well-informed without succumbing to stress or doomscrolling, which means you don’t have to choose between being informed or being comfortable. To avoid filter bubbles created by social media algorithms, use RSS readers to curate news from multiple credible sources across the political spectrum and different countries. Be aware that news media is often curated, focusing on negative events (“if it bleeds, it leads”) due to commercial interests. Media consolidation can further influence narratives. Remember the purpose of consuming news is to be an informed citizen and extract actionable information, not for passive entertainment or to induce suffering in yourself. Focus on your personal sphere of influence where you can make a tangible difference, rather than solely dwelling on global events for which you have no direct culpability. Personal well-being and happiness do not detract from global efforts; instead, by being at peace, you add to the world’s overall peace and happiness. Maintain moral clarity by distinguishing between others’ wrongdoings and your own actions. Then, you can sleep well at night and help the world in the future. Defining specific times and places for news consumption, develop interests outside of news and smartphones, and engage with your local community. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 5:56 – #1: Consume the news selectively 11:40 – #2: Be aware of ideological bias in the media 18:42 – #3: Keep in mind how few events are reported 22:25 – #4: Have a clear purpose for news consumption 26:56 – #5: Have interests other than the news 30:39 – #6: Remember your personal sphere of influence 32:31 – #7: Your personal suffering does not reduce global suffering 36:33 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Cope with Tragic Events in the News (Ep. 33) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

At some point, we must all take our first jobs. In this solo episode, Luke speaks about how to get the most from yours, from the perspective of a small business owner: To excel in your first job, view it as a resume building project, focusing on the value you create which should exceed your salary. Understand that jobs are created when there’s enough work and revenue to hire someone. Your compensation is based on the value you bring, not just the hours worked. Avoid an entitled attitude; employers take a chance on new hires. Focus on making your employer’s and colleagues’ lives easier. Manage up by communicating effectively with your boss, asking clarifying questions, and anticipating needs before they are explicitly stated. Be professional by being punctual, reliable, trustworthy, and making it easy for others to work with you. This includes adhering to dress codes, communication etiquette, and avoiding distractions. Adopt a ‘can-do’ attitude, be willing to go above and beyond your job description, and solve problems even if they aren’t directly assigned to you. Recognize hidden hierarchies based on knowledge and experience, not just official organizational charts. Respect those with soft power. Understand that in most workplaces, going above and beyond is expected. Simply doing the minimum can be perceived negatively. Remember that work is a compensated activity where you often need to subsume some individuality to be part of the collective. Meet social and self-expression needs outside of work. While you are an employee, you are a worthy and dignified person working with others who are also worthy and dignified. Row alongside your team, including your boss. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 01:49 – Provide disproportionate value 10:20 – View early jobs as resume-building projects 16:16 – Work is a mercenary game you play for money 19:12 – How to “be professional” 28:39 – Be aware of hidden hierarchies 35:00 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Excel at Your First Job (Ep. 32) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In this conversational episode, Kate and Luke discuss how to overcome procrastination, based on their personal experience, as well as professional work with hypnotherapy clients. Procrastination originates from the Latin word procrastinus, meaning ‘of tomorrow,’ highlighting the tendency to defer actions to a future time. Living with the knowledge of future consequences (e.g., dirty dishes, laundry) can motivate present action and set up a better tomorrow. Self-motivated and productive individuals maximize their available waking hours by prioritizing important tasks and letting go of non-essential ones. Completing tasks quickly, rather than carrying them as burdens, leads to a lighter and easier life, as avoiding tasks often requires more energy than doing them. Tasks are frequently perceived as more difficult than they actually are; engaging with them reveals they are often feasible and manageable. The belief that one can accomplish a task is crucial, echoing Henry Ford’s sentiment that ‘whether you believe you can or whether you believe you can’t, you’re right.’ We frame procrastination as a ‘software problem’ (thought processes) rather than a ‘hardware problem’ (fixed wiring), suggesting it can be overcome by upgrading thinking patterns. Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps (chunking) is essential for completing them, similar to running a marathon one step at a time. The principle ‘done is better than perfect’ encourages action and progress over striving for unattainable perfection. Audacity is the key differentiator between those who ‘dare to disturb the universe’ and take action, and those who do not. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 0:49 – What is procrastination? 2:23 – How to make the most out of each day 6:32 – Luke’s experience with procrastination 8:47 – Is procrastination a fixed mindset, or can it change? 10:58 – Best practices for procrastination 15:20 – How perfectionism fuels procrastination 19:38 – Learn to be your own greatest ally 23:06 – Turn best practices into action 25:34 – Becoming a doer, not a dreamer 27:29 – Dare to disturb the universe Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Overcome Procrastination (Ep. 31, with Kate Voss) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

On November 5, 2025, the tranquility of our hypnosis office was broken by a clash between two student groups, Students Supporting Israel and Students for Justice in Palestine, from Toronto Metropolitan University. After a window was broken and the protesters were forced out, five arrests were made, and the police chief says that more charges are coming. If you’ve seen the videos posted on social media, you might have seen our founder Luke Chao surveying the damage and making efforts to deescalate the situation. In this special episode of How to Be an Adult, Luke reflects on what we can learn about civil disobedience and how to protest effectively. This is not legal advice: it’s practical advice for what to think inside your head. 00:00 – The protest on November 5 01:39 – The purpose of civil disobedience 04:35 – #1: Remember the human 05:42 – #2: When fighting monsters, do not become one yourself 07:15 – #3: Do not reverse victim and perpetrator 08:04 – #4: Narrative is not everything 08:51 – #5: Avoid getting swept up in mobs 09:37 – #6: Be Socratic 10:23 – #7: Pick your battles 11:19 – Closing remarks Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Principles for Effective Protest: A Special Episode Following the SSI-SJP Clash Near TMU (Ep. 29) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Chances are, there isn’t a revolution coming, and you’re going to be living in a capitalist society for the rest of your life. Now what? In this solo episode, Luke shares eight principles for adapting to (indeed, thriving in) the economic system that our listeners live in: Capitalism is a system where private property and corporations own the means of production, and winning at it means accumulating enough capital to generate income without working for wages. To win at capitalism, you need to become a member of the capital-owning class by investing in assets like stocks, bonds, or real estate. It’s important to be a master of capital, not its slave, by using capital as a tool rather than letting it control your decisions. Cultivating an internal locus of control is crucial, as believing you are responsible for your circumstances empowers you to take action and accumulate capital. Optimism is essential for winning at capitalism, as it drives investors, entrepreneurs, and content creators to take risks and work hard for future rewards. Adopting a positive-sum mentality, where wealth creation benefits everyone, is more pragmatic and productive than a zero-sum mindset. Understanding supply and demand helps you position yourself uniquely in the market, allowing you to charge higher fees or wages. Living below your means and playing offense by increasing your income through strategic investments or career moves is key to accumulating capital. Respecting and admiring successful capitalists can help you learn from their strategies and avoid cognitive dissonance. Wealth amplifies your existing character traits, so it’s important to cultivate good values and principles before and during your journey to financial success. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Introduction 8:46 – Become a member of the capital-owning class 15:48 – Become a master of capital, not its slave 24:34 – Cultivate an internal locus of control 28:06 – Foster optimism 31:35 – Develop a positive-sum (win–win) mentality 39:31 – Understand supply and demand 45:07 – Play offence, not defence 50:18 – Find winners to admire Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post 8 Ways to Win at Capitalism (Ep. 28) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In this episode co-hosted by Luke Chao and Kate Voss, we discuss how we might maturely relate to time. It’s less about time management, and more a philosophy of how one might make the most out of your 16 waking hours in a day: Time management is crucial for adults to balance work, leisure, and personal growth, with each person having about 16 waking hours a day to allocate. Elon Musk’s time management strategies, such as scheduling in five-minute increments, highlight the importance of valuing each minute, though this level of granularity may not be practical for everyone. Time is a non-renewable resource that should be budgeted and spent wisely, similar to money, as it is scarce and valuable. Technology and social media can hijack attention and disrupt productivity, but individuals can reclaim control by using tools intentionally and turning off unnecessary notifications and other distractions. Setting long-term goals and breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks can help in effectively managing time and staying motivated. The perception of time changes with age, and recognizing its relentless forward movement can help in making better decisions about how to spend it. Rest and leisure are essential for well-being and should be intentionally scheduled, as they provide intrinsic value and prevent burnout. The hustle and grind culture often undervalues rest and leisure, but these activities are crucial for a balanced and fulfilling life. Children, retirees and the generationally wealthy offer valuable perspectives on the importance of play, rest, and non-work activities for overall happiness and well-being. Effective time management involves using simple tools like calendars and to-do lists, focusing on simplicity and practicality rather than aesthetics. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 3:07 – What does it mean to manage time? 3:46 – Every minute has priceless value 5:42 – We choose how to spend our time 12:12 – What do you do if you’re “bad at time”? 14:10 – Do you think time cares? 16:49 – Odds are, you’ll live a long time. 20:03 – Time feels faster as you get older. 21:10 – Not all time spent is well spent. 28:34 – You earn at work. You live after work. 31:04 – Write it down. Do it on time. 35:27 – Rest isn’t lazy. It’s maintenance. 38:12 – As a kid, play was scheduled. Now you have to schedule it. 43:20 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Think About Time (Ep. 27) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Most of our anxiety comes not from what actually happens, but from what we imagine might happen in an uncertain future. In this solo episode with Luke Chao, he speaks about how to face the future with clarity: The things you’re stressed about today will likely be handled by your future self with the maturity and experience of that age. Life’s uncertainties are like driving on a winding road; you don’t need to imagine threats, just trust your senses and handle what comes. Anxiety often focuses on hypothetical threats rather than the actual reality, which is usually safe and manageable. Throughout life, you’ve handled misfortunes without prior preparation, proving you can adapt to whatever comes. Mentally preparing for a long life (around 80 years) is practical and aligns with statistical averages. Focus on what you know (like your current capabilities) rather than trying to predict the unknown future. Use your imagination to visualize and create the future you want, rather than dwelling on potential negatives. As an adult, you control your environment and can create lasting good things in your life. Accept that the future is uncertain, but trust in your ability to handle whatever comes with maturity and intelligence. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Introduction 6:52 – What we know for certain 11:44 – But what if…? 18:57 – Proper use of the imagination 26:04 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Cope with Uncertainty (Ep. 26) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Kate is the newest member of our team at The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis, and in this episode, she and Luke discuss some of the hallmarks of a successful relationship. We offer suggestions for listeners at every stage in their relationship journey: Successful relationships begin with a positive relationship with oneself, characterized by self-love and self-respect. The “four C’s” of relationships—clarity, confidence, communication, and connection—are crucial for navigating both entering and maintaining relationships. Confidence plays a significant role in attracting partners. How one presents themselves non-verbally can influence the type of relationships they attract. Effective communication is essential for expressing needs and desires, which helps in forming genuine connections. Relationships should enhance both partners’ lives, with interdependence rather than codependency, where both individuals are whole and contribute equally. The concept of “positive sum” relationships suggests that partnerships should multiply love and support rather than create competition or imbalance. Individuals are encouraged to embrace their uniqueness and authenticity, avoiding the tendency to pedestalize others or compare themselves unfavorably. The importance of self-care—physically, mentally, and emotionally—is a prerequisite for being able to connect with others meaningfully. When evaluating a relationship’s future, ask whether would choose the partner again if starting fresh. Breakups can be an act of love when they allow both partners to find better compatibility. Ending a relationship does not diminish the love shared. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 2:16 – Big mistakes seen in a relationship? 2:30 – The 4 C’s in a relationship 7:28 – A cool thing about being self-loving 8:26 – What are relationships about 10:11 – Relationships and climbing mountains 11:35 – The egalitarian style 17:40 – Pedestalizing others 21:20 – Questions to ask yourself in a relationship 24:28 – How to be 100% yourself 28:15 – Scenarios and stages in a relationship 28:38 – Scenario #1: Have you never been on a date before? 33:40 – People in the dating world 37:00 – Finding your forever person is inevitable 41:15 – Scenario #2: How do you know? 46:30 – Is the grass greener? 47:45 – Complimentary or opposites 49:55 – Has the relationship run its course? 54:54 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post What Makes a Relationship Successful (Ep. 25) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

The questions we ask ourselves determine which thoughts subsequently enter our minds. If we ask ourselves about counterfactual scenarios, our mind floods with counterfactual scenarios. If we ask ourselves about reassuring truths, we find reassuring truths, almost as though we were typing a query into a search engine. This episode is about how to ask yourself the second type of question. Good questions can lead to productive thoughts, while bad questions can evoke unnecessary anxiety and confusion. The way we think is influenced by the questions we ask ourselves, which can shape our emotional and physical well-being. It’s essential to challenge the premises of our questions, as flawed assumptions can lead to unhelpful answers. Questions about others’ opinions or actions distract from our agency; instead, focus on self-directed questions using “shall” to emphasize personal responsibility. Using frameworks like the five W’s (who, what, when, where, why) and strategic versus tactical questions can guide effective self-inquiry. Intuition plays a crucial role in decision-making; allowing time for reflection can lead to more satisfying answers than immediate rational thought. Individuals should prioritize asking themselves questions about their own values and priorities rather than seeking validation from others. Recognizing one’s agency in decision-making can reduce anxiety and empower individuals to shape their futures. The ultimate goal of questioning is to approach truth and broaden perspectives, leading to actionable insights and improved self-awareness. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 0:55 – Why good questions matter 8:26 – “What if” and “why” questions 13:36 – The purpose of a question 19:25 – The 5 W’s and H 24:42 – Let questions sit Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Ask Yourself Great Questions (Ep. 24) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

This timely episode tackles an important topic that I’ve tried a few times to speak about. For the half of the population who are male, how are we supposed to “be a man”? In this episode 23, I make an attempt to answer this question using the same analytical lens through which I’ve dissected how we are all supposed to “be an adult.” The concept of masculinity is evolving, and traditional definitions centered around being a provider, protector, and procreator are becoming outdated as women can now fulfill these roles independently. The real battle is against oneself rather than against women or other men. Discussions around toxic masculinity does not provide constructive role models for young men to emulate. Role models for healthy masculinity are scarce, with examples like Mufasa from “The Lion King” and Keanu Reeves being cited for their positive traits and authenticity. Societal norms around gender are largely socially constructed, and men can redefine masculinity in ways that break away from outdated conventions. Be aware of your inherent power and strength, using it to uplift and support others rather than to intimidate or harm. Being a good man is synonymous with being a good person, regardless of gender. Identify role models who exhibit desirable qualities and strive to emulate them in daily life. Everyone has a unique path to happiness and success, and it’s essential for individuals to recognize their potential for growth and improvement over time. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 00:51 – How to “be a man” 02:13 – The inspiration behind the episode 05:21 – Healthy masculinity 07:52 – Men and women are apples and oranges 11:00 – The Tate hate 13:59 – Who are our male role models? 20:55 – The obligations of a man 28:52 – Do we need to atone for other men? 31:52 – Finding strength on your path to success 35:32 – A good man is a good person 41:10 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to “Be a Man” (Ep. 23) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

We all know that we should forgive ourselves for our mistakes, but until somebody teaches you how, the path to redemption isn’t always obvious. In this episode, I’m going to break down what it means when you’re feeling guilty or ashamed, and what to do about it.: Remorse serves to reflect and improve oneself to avoid repeating past mistakes. Guilt arises from specific wrongful actions, while shame is a deeper feeling of being a bad person. When you recognize your position in your redemption arc, you can make amends and grow as a person. Continuous self-reflection and learning from past actions are essential for personal development and need not lead to perpetual guilt or shame. Unlike manufactured objects that degrade over time, humans grow and evolve throughout life, and past mistakes do not define one’s current worth. Individuals should assess their behaviors with kindness and understanding, similar to how a good parent or teacher would guide a child, rather than harshly criticizing themselves. Many people hold themselves to harsher standards than they would apply to friends; recognizing this double standard can foster self-compassion. Everyone deserves moments of joy and forgiveness, regardless of past transgressions, and self-compassion is integral to healing. Instead of asking self-deprecating questions, individuals should focus on what kind of person they want to be and the values they wish to uphold moving forward. 0:00 – Intro 0:54 – The difference between guilt and shame 1:43 – Guilt means a good thing 2:21 – Life is a redemption arc 3:42 – Everyone has regrets 5:35 – The utility of remorse 6:07 – What it means to be a lifelong learner 7:16 – Humans get better with time, not worse 9:33 – How to learn from your mistakes 11:25 – When to stop of punishing yourself 13:25 – Everyone deserves a second chance (to know better next time) 16:27 – Treat yourself as a friend 18:21 – Who do you want to be tomorrow? 20:12 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Forgive Yourself (Ep. 22) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

This episode is for all the recovering people-pleasers out there. If you feel like it’s hard to say “no” in an unfair situation, I’m going to give you a moral framework that lets you to speak your mind and simultaneously feel like the hero in the story of your life… at the same time! We start by recognizing the false morality instilled during childhood that suggests being agreeable equates to being a good person. We should prioritize authentic, truthful communication over merely saying “yes” to please others, because this shift is essential for personal growth and emotional well-being. The ‘fawning’ response is a common trauma reaction that leads you to please others at the expense of their own feelings and beliefs. We encourage you to view yourself as an equal to others, regardless of hierarchical positions, because everyone has a right to voice their thoughts and feelings. Self-respect and self-love are crucial for establishing healthy boundaries and asserting your needs guilt-free. Neglecting your own morality inevitably leads to feelings of anger and resentment. Treating yourself as an equal can influence how others perceive and treat you, promoting a healthier social dynamic. Self-love and respect do not diminish others’ happiness; instead, they contribute to a collective increase in well-being, because emotions are positive-sum. Asserting yourself and saying “no” when necessary is a civilized and mature response that fosters healthier relationships and personal integrity. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 01:12 – “You’re only good if you say ‘yes,’ and bad if you say ‘no’” 02:57 – People-pleasing as a trauma response 04:12 – Neglecting your morality will lead to resentment 05:48 – The inequality of people-pleasing 09:38 – Your moral obligation to say ‘no’ 14:58 – You can still be a good person even when you’re rocking the boat 16:35 – Our heroes say ‘no’ all of the time 18:17 – We are all living in your world, too 23:29 – Ceasing to people-please doesn’t make you a jerk 29:26 – Put your own oxygen mask on first 30:53 – Why I don’t trust people-pleasers 33:32 – A wolf that does not defend itself is demoralized or sick 34:35 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Stop People-Pleasing (Ep. 21) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

We’ve recently heard of a trend of young people avoiding the news entirely to preserve their mental health. In our view, this is unnecessarily self-defeating, because it’s possible to be informed and happy at the same time. In this episode, we share how: It is possible to stay informed about world events while also prioritizing mental health, debunking the notion that one must choose between the two. Each person can make a positive impact in their community and the world, and benefits from focusing on their own contributions rather than feeling overwhelmed by global issues. Individuals should acknowledge and take credit for their positive actions, such as volunteering or voting, rather than blaming themselves for broader societal issues. Small individual actions can collectively lead to significant positive change, reinforcing the idea that every person’s efforts matter. Engaging with a variety of news sources and perspectives is crucial for a well-rounded understanding of events, as media often emphasizes sensational stories. Recognizing that media outlets may present biased representations of news helps individuals navigate the information landscape more effectively. People should be mindful of their emotional responses to news, as outrage and fear are often used to capture attention, potentially skewing perception. Each person has the power to influence their environment and society, and should leverage that power through informed voting and civic engagement. Education and knowledge about current events empower individuals, allowing them to make informed decisions and participate actively in democracy. A free press is essential for a healthy democracy, and individuals play a critical role in supporting journalistic integrity by engaging with credible media sources. Table of Contents: 00:00 Intro 01:12 New trend of avoiding the news 02:25 Give yourself credit for what you are able to do 07:42 We’re all adults that can accept reality 10:01 “If it bleeds, it leads.” 13:07 Even when the media isn’t completely trustworthy, it isn’t completely untrustworthy either 16:49 Journalism is a check and balance against corruption 20:16 You don’t just exist helplessly in a world created by others 23:53 Knowledge is the great equalizer 29:47 Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Consume the News Without Falling Apart (Ep. 20) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In one of our most focused episodes to date, Luke deconstructs the notion of perfection and suggests achiveable standards, such as authentic self-expression, that are still worth striving toward: Perfection is an unrealistic and unattainable standard that no one can truly achieve, even in simple tasks like drawing a perfect circle. Holding yourself to a standard of perfection is unnecessarily cruel and prevents you from being genuine, authentic, and relatable to others. Your worth as a human being is independent of any criteria or flaws, just as you would not reject a friend for having “imperfections.” Limitations, flaws, and imperfections are where we find room for connection, growth, and the formation of meaningful relationships. As an adult, you will often find yourself at the “edge of knowledge” where there are no clear answers, and you must rely on your own inner guidance and reasoning. Perfection is a concept that looks to the past, whereas true progress often requires breaking from the mold of what has been done before. The 80/20 rule suggests that trying to achieve 100% perfection often results in diminishing returns and is not worth the excessive effort. Your inner critic has few valid opinions and should be ignored, as true criticism must come from a place of appreciation and understanding. Perfectionism often stems from a sense of low self-worth, and recognizing your inherent human value can help you let go of this unrealistic standard. The goal should be to recognize where you are already doing well enough, rather than faulting yourself for falling short of an impossible ideal of perfection. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 00:56 – You can only expect perfection in elementary tasks 03:31 – Perfection is unnatural 05:30 – Your favorite things aren’t perfect 07:44 – In most human endeavors, perfection isn’t necessary 08:33 – There is no such thing as a perfect animal or plant 10:40 – The rules for how we treat life are different from the rules for how we treat objects 12:40 – Our lack of perfection, our “scratches,” are where practices of healing, friendship, and community take place 16:01 – Imperfection, or deviation from the model, is the only way to make something yours 25:23 – Perfectionism erases individuality 25:59 – 80/20 rule 28:13 – Reframing your inner critic 32:40 – Perfectionism and low self-worth 36:13 – The way to overcome perfectionism 37:00 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Stop Being a Perfectionist (Ep. 19) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In the eternal debate about whether the proverbial glass is half full or half empty, both arguments are often presented as equally valid. In this solo episode with Luke, he makes a case for why the glass being half full is the correct answer: A glass half full perspective encourages individuals to appreciate what they have rather than lamenting what they lack, fostering gratitude. Acknowledging and appreciating what one has can counteract negative thoughts, promoting mental well-being. Recognizing abundance does not equate to complacency; it can motivate individuals to nurture and build upon their existing blessings. We include practical examples, such as wealth comparisons and feelings of inadequacy in relationships, to illustrate how a glass half full perspective can shift one’s emotional state. A change in perspective happens instantaneously, allowing individuals to find peace and happiness without waiting for external changes. By focusing on the positives, individuals can build resilience against stress and feelings of inadequacy in various aspects of life, including work and personal relationships. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 00:54 – The correct view of the glass 01:24 – You can only make a meal with the ingredients you have 05:12 – A half-full view is grateful and appreciative; a half-empty view is ungrateful and cynical 07:12 – Changes in perspective happen instantaneously, requiring no change to your nature, your life or the world around you 15:42 – Happy people are still motivated, productive and advocates for change 16:39 – Stuff your inner critic into a box 18:00 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, when you are stressed 19:16 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, in the context of public speaking 21:21 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, as applied to exercise motivation 22:52 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, when feeling insecure in a relationship 23:53 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, when worrying about your career 25:02 – Practise gratitude 29:40 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Why the Glass Is Half Full (Ep. 18 of How to Be an Adult) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

This episode of How to Be an Adult, the second of two parts, features a very special guest: Marc Lewis, Ph.D., psychologist, academic and bestselling author of Memoirs of an Addicted Brain and The Biology of Desire. Marc joins Luke in our studio to discuss how popular models of addiction are flawed, and how we can better serve those who are suffering: Shame is a major obstacle in addiction recovery, as it can exacerbate the problem rather than help. There can be a positive intent or function behind addictive behaviors, which is often overlooked. Unconditional positive regard and self-acceptance are crucial for supporting those struggling with addiction. Systemic factors like poverty, lack of social support, and toxic environments significantly contribute to addiction. Harm reduction approaches that focus on minimizing harm rather than abstinence can be a helpful strategy. The ideal is to find ways to address the root causes and context rather than just self-medicating, but this is not always feasible. Willpower and self-control are complex and can be influenced by various factors, not a simple binary. Narratives, personal stories, and understanding the individual’s experience are valuable in understanding and treating addiction. Practices like AA that involve confession and acceptance can provide a sense of community and belonging that supports recovery. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and flexibility and nuance are required when addressing addiction. This episode continues episode 16. To learn more about Marc’s work, visit his website. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 00:45 – Recognise the positive intent behind addiction 04:22 – The importance of self-love and forgiveness 11:00 – Addiction in unchangeable circumstances and toxic environments 26:12 – Sheer willpower 28:50 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post More About Addiction, with Marc Lewis (Ep. 17, pt. 2 of 2) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

This episode of How to Be an Adult, the first of two parts, features a very special guest: Marc Lewis, Ph.D., psychologist, academic and bestselling author of Memoirs of an Addicted Brain and The Biology of Desire. Marc joins Luke in our studio to discuss how popular models of addiction are flawed, and how we can better serve those who are suffering: The medical model of addiction as a disease disempowers those it’s supposed to help, by taking away their sense of agency and responsibility. Addiction is better understood as a psychological habit, a cognitive and emotional pattern, rather than a brain disease or pathology. The opposite of addiction is not sobriety, but connection—the lack of meaningful social bonds and relationships is a key factor in addiction. Practices like mindfulness, self-reflection, and cultivating self-love and compassion can be more effective in overcoming addiction than the disease model and 12-step programs. The disease model of addiction became popular as a way to remove stigma and blame from addicts, but it has had the unintended consequence of also removing their sense of agency. Addiction is deeply intertwined with our broader psychological and social lives, so it cannot be neatly categorized or treated as a distinct medical condition. The medical model of addiction is perpetuated in part because it is more easily institutionalized (and monetized) compared to approaches focused on personal agency and social connection. Engaging with the different “parts” of the self, including the addictive urges, with compassion and an understanding of their positive intentions can be a helpful approach (Internal Family Systems therapy). Addiction often stems from trauma and has an undercurrent of shame, so it’s important to address those root causes. To learn more about Marc’s work, visit his website. Luke’s conversation with Marc continues in part 2 of this interview, which will be released in two weeks. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 02:42 – The dominant model of addiction 06:13 – Perception of addicts as lacking agency and the benefits of self-empowerment 09:35 – Practices for and approaches to treating addiction 23:41 – Marc’s experience with challenging the disease model 27:16 – Self-love’s role within addiction 35:56 – Internal Family Systems Therapy 42:01 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post About Addiction, with Marc Lewis (Ep. 16, pt. 1 of 2) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Not every relationship lasts forever, and it’s when a relationship ends that all your self-loving and self-caring will really matter. In this episode, Luke and Pascal draw from their own personal heartbreaks to discuss some ways to cope with a breakup: Experiencing a breakup is a normal grieving process, not a sign of being “broken.” Acceptance is the inevitable end point. Both parties can walk away from a breakup with their self-worth and dignity intact. Avoid blaming yourself or your ex, and focus on questions that lead to growth. Practice self-care and self-compassion during this difficult time. Your worth is inherent as a human being, not defined by others. There are multiple paths to happiness and fulfillment beyond any one relationship. Relationships naturally have an end date, which is not inherently bad. The one constant, permanent relationship is the one you have with yourself. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate the grieving process. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Introduction 01:26 – You are grieving, and it’s normal to go through the stages of grief 04:54 – At the end is acceptance, which is the light at the end of the tunnel 08:41 – You can both walk away with your dignity and your (separate) futures fully intact 18:35 – Remember to love and care for yourself, to, as you will often be the person most in need of your support 25:23 – Nobody is the arbiter of your worth, not even your inner critic, and especially not your ex 28:44 – There are multiple (perhaps infinite) paths to happiness and love, never just one 34:03 – Most of your relationships have an end date, and this is not a bad thing 39:31 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Cope with a Breakup (Ep. 15) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

When you keep hearing that you need to love yourself, and nobody gives you instructions in how, it’s easy to feel stuck (and not any more loved). But self-loving people are not a different breed of human being: they’ve just internalized certain lessons earlier in life. In this episode, we’ll do our best to articulate what these lessons might be, so that you can adopt them in adulthood for the decades-long timeline of your future, too: Love is a positive-sum pursuit, not a zero-sum or negative-sum one. Loving yourself does not take away love from others. The only condition for self-love is simply being a living human being. There should be no other conditions placed on one’s self-worth. Self-love is a process, not just a static state. It requires actively turning inward and finding the love within yourself. Look to where the “glass is half full” rather than dwelling on what’s missing. Focus on appreciating what you do have. Apply self-love as a salve to heal emotional and physical wounds, just as you would comfort a friend. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding you would extend to a loved one in a similar situation. You already have the capacity for self-love within you. You just need to recognize and nurture those positive thoughts and feelings. Overcoming resistance to self-love often stems from conditioning in childhood where love was conditional. Societal and cultural messages can also contribute to the difficulty in practicing self-love. Self-love is a fundamental human right, not something that must be earned or achieved through perfection. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 03:17 – Love is a positive-sum pursuit, not zero-sum. 08:00 – You need no reason to love yourself other than that you’re alive. 12:52 – Your own heart makes more of it and you won’t run out. 14:16 – If you don’t feel anything the first time, try as many times as you need to. 19:02 – Look where the glass is half-full, not half-empty. 22:47 – Apply self-love to wherever it hurts, is scared or feels empty. 26:25 – When you’re treating yourself equally to others, you’re doing it right. 32:32 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Love Yourself, Too (Ep. 14) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

If you’ve had an experience that overwhelmed your ability to cope, or when you’ve been in an environment where you were regularly unable to cope, you’ve experienced psychological trauma. In this episode, we share seven principles for living well with our wounds and speeding our journeys toward healing and recovery. Trauma is common. Depending on how you define it, around 75% of people experience some form of trauma in their past. Trauma does not mean someone is “broken”, rather they have experienced wounds that can heal with time, care, and adopting healthy coping strategies. It is important for trauma survivors to fulfill all their basic physical, social, emotional and safety needs. This includes needs like food, water, sleep, touch/physical contact. Trauma survivors should treat themselves with compassion as they would a loved one, recognizing their inherent worth and that they are responsible for their own well-being and care. Grounding techniques like being present in the senses and immersive experiences can help trauma survivors avoid rumination and flashbacks. Connecting to one’s own moral center and values can help avoid being demoralized by toxic people and viewpoints. Small, incremental steps towards self-care should be recognized and celebrated, not criticized. Experiences of awe, beauty and transcendence through art/nature can help trauma survivors feel less alone. Trauma-informed therapy can aid recovery when immersed in a supportive environment. It is important for trauma survivors to avoid harmful coping mechanisms like drugs/alcohol and instead sit with difficult emotions in a self-compassionate way. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 04:51 – Point One: You are wounded, not broken 09:34 – Point Two: Take guardianship of your body 16:37 – Point Three: Fulfill all of your physical needs 24:01 – Point Four: Find your moral centre 28:20 – Point Five: Believe in the evidence of your senses 33:04 – Point Six: Give yourself healthy stimulation 41:30 – Point Seven: Keep away harms 47:21 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Live Well After Trauma (Ep. 13) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In this episode, we advocate for capital-letter Truth, Morality and Beauty in our purportedly post-modern world, and we argue that these ideals are not quaintly outdated, but necessary for society to function and for you (as an adult) to be at your happiest: Pursuing truth, morality and beauty are worthwhile goals even in modern times, and not just “Victorian” concepts. Maintaining lies, especially lies to oneself, can be psychologically and physically damaging over time due to the stress of keeping up deceit. Defining and staying connected to one’s own moral values and sense of right and wrong can help reduce anxiety and improve mental health. Universal human morality can be defined as behaviors that are pro-social and foster good social relationships and community. Foundations like religion previously provided backing for moral systems, so alternative foundations need to be established. Beauty can be defined as a balance between chaos and order, and things done with care and quality are more likely to be considered beautiful. Architecture and art should aim to be aesthetically pleasing since most people will experience it. One’s environment should aim to create positive feelings in others. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Introduction 1:04 – Truth 16:00 – Morality 32:00 – Beauty Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Truth, Morality and Beauty: Not Just for Victorians (Ep. 12) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Since the dawn of time, philosophers have grappled with how to cope with our knowledge of death, both when it happens to loved ones and when it happens to us. In this episode, we do our best to answer this age-old question, referencing both traditional wisdom and more recent thought. Bonus content: Luke demonstrates that it’s okay to cry in public, such as when you’re talking about your cat’s final days. How to Be an Adult has shifted from a bi-weekly to a monthly release schedule. Repressing our knowledge of mortality is a root cause of anxiety according to Ernest Becker’s theory. Accepting death can help alleviate lower level anxieties. Near-death experiences can give people a new perspective on life and the inevitability of death. Pascal had a scary flight experience that made him value living in the present. The Latin phrase “memento mori” means “remember you will die” and reminds us to confront death and accept it to gain liberation from fears. Some Buddhist practices involve meditating on corpses. When coping with the deaths of others, it’s important to remember the whole story and relationship rather than just the final moments. Memories and values of lost loved ones continue after they’re gone. Parents will usually die before their children, but the lessons and values they instilled can echo for generations through what is passed down. Quality of life matters more than mere quantity, and it may be right to pursue death in cases of extreme suffering without treatment options. Being present with a dying pet during its final moments can provide closure and comfort for both the animal and its owner. To face one’s own death well requires living life well through self-love, letting go of regrets, and aligning with one’s values so there are no missed opportunities. Considering what we might regret or not regret on our deathbed can help guide decision-making and priorities while alive. Discussing death helps demystify it and cultivate equanimity, which supports well-being and alleviates everyday anxieties. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 01:22 – Repression of our knowledge of death is a leading cause of anxiety 03:53 – Memento mori 10:37 – How do we cope with those who die before us? 17:10 – Appreciating the small moments 20:44 – Quality over quantity of life 25:58 – How do we die excellently? 32:13 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Memento Mori: Facing the Inevitable (Ep. 11) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

If you do adult life well enough, eventually you’ll be considered such an exemplar of adult behaviour that your boss will ask you to lead other people, or you will naturally end up being a leader by virtue of having more skill or knowledge. But promotions don’t usually come with an instruction manual, and too often, we see senior-level leaders thinking and behaving in intermediate-level ways. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss how: Leadership involves having authority or knowledge that others lack. It requires being the first to act or take risks to show others the way. Power itself is neutral — it depends how it’s used. Abuses of power have led people to fear it, but thoughtful leaders can wield it for good. Good leaders follow their inner guidance to make tough choices when faced with problems that lack clear answers. Leaders face uncertainty and criticism due to operating on the edge of knowledge and morality. Self-validation is key to withstanding public judgments. Hierarchies are socially constructed and position says nothing about one’s inherent qualities. Wisdom and authority come with experience over time. Servant leadership empowers followers to excel. Anti-authoritarianism targets tyranny, not legitimate authority that’s based on expertise. Thoughtful leaders who question power structures should seek power. Resentment sometimes stems from others’ ambitions, not the leader’s qualities. Developing a confident leadership mindset requires reframing one’s self-concept through training like the kind that we offer. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 01:47 – Power often gets a bad rap 08:49 – Leaders go first 10:40 – Leaders must make decisions with their own inner guidance 23:16 – Leaders face a lot of trolley problems, where there’s no good solution, only trade offs 29:09 – Leaders attract envy and resentment — this is not personal, and comes with the territory 34:51 – Leaders have to speak publicly, so you should start getting comfortable with this 35:33 – Public speaking masterclass in January 37:58 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Be a Leader (Ep. 10) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

So many of us grew up hearing from adults that work is necessarily hard, or that money is necessarily hard to come by. Yet younger generations have exceeded their parents in many ways, and work does not need to be an exception. In this episode, we share some principles for how to find meaning and happiness in a world where most of us have to work for a living: A scarcity mindset is one where there never seems to be enough money. An abundance mindset that views wealth as plentiful allows you to see the opportunities. Wealth and morality are independent—one can be wealthy and moral, or poor and unethical. Money itself is a tool, not inherently good or bad. As adults, we should be productive creators who add value to the world through our work, not just consumers of other people’s productivity. Money flows from consumers to creators, not the other way around. Money is a technology to be understood and mastered. It is a tool for meeting needs, not the source of our worth or meaning. It is not our master. Markets are generally efficient. Free or easy money should be viewed with suspicion. Work is a game played for money, not something to lose sleep over. Find balance between work and your passions. Our worth as human beings is not defined by our economic value, but by everything outside the commercial sphere, such as relationships with family and friends. Principles (like treating people well) will matter more to your long-term well-being than financial wealth. How one uses wealth defines their character more than the amount. Having your fundamental, physical needs met means that you can have a certain detachment from money that allows you to make objective decisions about it. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 01:24 – Luke and Pascal’s financial histories 08:03 – Principle 1: It’s possible to be wealthy and to be a good person at the same time 11:56 – Principle 2: Be the master of money, not the other way around 16:40 – Principle 3: Be a creator, not only a consumer 18:54 – Principle 4: Develop an abundance mindset, instead of a scarcity mindset 27:04 – Principle 5: The efficient market hypothesis is roughly correct 35:12 – Principle 6: Work is a game we play for money 40:30 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post What They Didn’t Teach You About Work and Money (Ep. 9) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

For the first 18 years of your life, your parents were responsible for ensuring that you had adequate food, clothes and shelter. Once you reach adulthood, it’s you, not your parents, who hold this responsibility. But unless we’ve been show how to perform acts of self-care, and why we need to, they often elude us. In this episode, we endeavour to remedy this gap: We have a duty to care for our physical bodies, as the stewards of our own lives. We should treat ourselves with at least the same level of care and compassion as we would a pet. Exercise is a fundamental human need, like sleep, food and water. Lack of exercise always leads to poor health outcomes over time. Our minds and bodies are interconnected, and our mental attitudes affect our physical healing and well-being. Self-compassion is important when recovering from any kind of illness or injury. Aging is natural and inevitable. We can age gracefully by focusing on cultivating inner qualities and continuing to care for our physical needs appropriately for our stage of life. Maladaptive behaviors may be attempts to meet needs in unhealthy ways. With self-care and self-love, we can update our approaches over time. Life persists through adaptation. We can find ways to live fully even with physical challenges or disability. While professionals can help with diagnosis and treatment, we are responsible for our own pursuit of health and happiness on a daily basis. Self-care requires both knowledge of what to do and intrinsic motivation from self-love. Without the love factor, knowledge does not translate into action. Whether or not it happens, we should plan to live into our 80s and beyond to consider both short and long-term impacts. Balance is key. We can take chances while young to avoid regrets later, while also caring for ongoing health through daily habits. 00:00 – Introduction 01:06 – Why bother with self-care? 05:30 – Create the right conditions for your body’s healing and growth 10:06 – Give yourself enough, but not too much of what you need (quality over quantity) 12:37 – Your needs are not luxuries 13:29 – Healing is inevitable 17:41 – Care for your sick or injured body as you would another’s 20:07 – Accept your aging gracefully 26:22 – You should outsource diagnosis and treatment, but you can’t outsource a focus on living a happy life 29:49 – Plan to live 80+ years 35:04 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Care for Your Body (Ep. 8) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

By the time we reach adulthood, we’re expected to be responsible for our own thoughts and emotions: we can’t just blame other people every time we’re unhappy or upset. But if you didn’t learn how to be happy and relaxed in childhood, how can you expect to be happy and relaxed in adult life, when circumstances could be more adverse? In this episode, we do our best to give you pointers: Self-loving thoughts that are caring, respectful and esteem-building will always make one feel better, while self-critical thoughts have the opposite effect. Jealousy and envy can become habitual, but viewing them as signs of one’s values allows for self-improvement instead of stewing in negativity. Unconditional positive self-regard is important for well-being and can fulfill some of the role that therapists (and good parents) play. One’s sense of self-worth should not depend on external validation but come from within through self-love and self-respect. Gratitude for the positives in one’s life is healthier than focusing on negatives or falsehoods, and no less sophisticated. Everyone has innate worth, regardless of perceived flaws or failures, including you. Treat yourself with the same care, respect and forgiveness that you give to others. Combine a growth mindset of learning from mistakes with self-compassion when you do make mistakes. Rather than being selfish, self-care allows you to better help others by being emotionally fulfilled. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Introduction 01:02 – Stoics and CBT therapists are right 10:18 – Think to yourself the way you would speak to a friend 13:33 – Love and esteem are needs, not luxuries 20:58 – Recognize the innate worth and dignity in all human beings, including yourself 29:21 – Practise gratitude by keeping your attention on what’s both truthful and uplifting 31:02 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Care for Your Mind and Emotions (Ep. 7) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Throughout this podcast, we’ve made the case (and we will continue to make the case) that living an excellent life requires us to abide by a set of principles that are universal enough that we could say they are in accordance with human nature. But why? And what happens if we don’t? In this episode, we speak about how: Having clear principles to live by helps guide decision making and reduces regret. Principle remain relevant even in times of strong emotion. To pick truth as an example, white lies may seem harmless, but being consistently truthful builds a trustworthy reputation that’s worth developing. External signs of success like wealth or status don’t guarantee happiness. Feeling secure comes  more reliably from living according to one’s values. Shared basic principles like non-aggression allow people to get along across cultures and disagreements. Self-care needs change over life stages, but the principle of treating oneself well endures. Relying only on external motivation leaves one vulnerable to random chance; internal principles provide stability. Assuming the best of others has benefits, but one must also protect against manipulation. Courage means sticking to principles even in difficult or dangerous situations, as exemplified by Oskar Schindler. Small acts of honesty like returning a lost wallet create a more trustworthy society and allow one to “sleep well at night,” literally and metaphorically. Table of contents: 00:00 – Introduction 01:04 – Why should we live a principled life? 06:19 – Problems with “following your heart” 08:56 – Problems with prioritizing outward signs of success 12:48 – Principles transcend your egocentricity 20:24 – Does having principles make you gullible? 24:20 – What if those around you are not living by principles? 25:51 – When should you compromise on your principles? 29:43 – The softest pillow is an easy conscience 34:43 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Why Live a Principled Life? (Ep. 6) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

You can find many people and traditions that will tell you to honour and respect your parents. In this episode, we make a case for why, in adulthood, you must exceed your parents too. Unless we do this, society will become more closed and intolerant, rather than open and accepting of changes that occur in the world—which is what actually happens as the decades and centuries progress. We speak about how: Younger generations exceeding their parents is necessary for societal progress as it allows for new ideas and tolerance of differences. Change and disruption of norms drives human advancement. Good parents want their children to succeed beyond them, while insecure parents fear being exceeded and try to control their children. Adults should set good examples of behavior for children rather than the children learning bad habits. When this doesn’t happen, the children have to contradict their parents. Accepting new information, even if it contradicts accepted beliefs, is an important part of intellectual maturity. Conservatives and liberals both have important but different roles to play. Conservatives stabilize while liberals innovate and disrupt. Core humanist principles of treating others with dignity can persist across generations and cultures. Independent thinking and not relying on others’ opinions is a sign of adulthood. Future generations will face different challenges and opportunities, so an open and adaptable mindset is needed. Living by proven principles allows one to raise children who can positively shape future societies in ways that are not known until they do it. Table of contents: 00:00 – Intro 01:08 – Exceeding your parents is a long tradition 03:10 – Your parents made mistakes 06:42 – You will evolve prior generations’ views 12:09 – Principles will stand the test of time 15:34 – Younger generations are more liberal 22:12 – Change has to be embraced 27:45 – A universal lens helps you to identify lasting principles 31:24 – You will be on the planet longer 34:35 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Why You Must Exceed Your Parents (Ep. 5) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In most households and in schools, the rules for children are different from the rules for adults. But the time you reach adulthood, these childhood rules become obsolete and have to be abandoned. In this episode, we identify several of these childhood lessons that you must abandon in adult life, like that your own opinions aren’t good enough, or that you can get things perfect in adult endeavours. We speak about how: By age 18, people should be able to trust and value their own thoughts, opinions, and ability to make decisions for themselves without needing validation or permission from others. Core life skills like making friends and being responsible can be mastered by one’s early 20s to serve a person for the rest of their life. It’s important for parents to allow their children to make mistakes and learn from experiences, even if it causes the parent distress, as it prevents overdependence. Power itself is not inherently bad; it depends on one’s values, morals, and how power is wielded in a responsible, pro-social manner. Simply existing and relaxing is a valid way to spend time and find pleasure, not just being productive. Non-commercialized pleasures like singing in the shower have intrinsic value. Meals and leisure time with friends are important parts of a balanced, adult life alongside periods of work and achievement. Perfection is an unrealistic and harmful standard, especially in creative or complex fields where failure provides learning opportunities and where perfection literally cannot be achieved. Adopting new views can help people develop better perspectives to become the independent, self-assured adults they are meant to be. Table of contents: 00:00 – Introduction 01:39 – Anti-Principle #1: You have to turn to others for validation or permission 18:08 – Anti-Principle #2: You are incapable of handling power 22:15 – Anti-Principle #3: You always ought to follow your heart/emotions 28:14 – Anti-Principle #4: You are lazy when you are doing nothing 32:45 – Anti-Principle #5: You can achieve perfection 35:59 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Childhood Lessons You Must Unlearn (Ep. 4) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In this episode, Luke and Pascal speak about how to relate to other human beings as an adult, and more generally, your place in the world. We start by speaking about the importance of approaching other people with a metaphorical cup that’s full or running over. We also discuss the importance of truth, boundary-setting as an expression of morality, human nature as fundamentally pro-social, relationships as a positive-sum pursuit and social media being anything but that: Love, respect, esteem are important needs for adults but are often not recognized as such. Filling one’s own “cup” with self-love and acceptance is important for well-being. Adulthood brings the responsibility to make meaningful choices through voting and civic participation. Most democracies designate 18 as the age of majority. As adults, we are responsible for setting our own boundaries and saying “no” when needed from a place of moral principle rather than to be disagreeable. Self-esteem allows one to acknowledge mistakes without “crumbling” due to shame. It provides stability and security. Relationships are most fulfilling when both parties contribute love and esteem. Being alone may be better than a relationship where no one does the loving. Social media presents an unrealistic highlights reel and encourages unhelpful comparisons to others’ curated profiles. Adults don’t need to wait until being “perfect” to feel worthy of respect at the grown-up table. Personal development is ongoing. Childhood experiences may not provide the perspectives needed for happy, peaceful adulthood; new learning is important. Honest, truthful speech from friends can help by calling out one’s “BS” in a caring way. No one is defined by their worst moments or times of weakness if they have self-esteem filling their “cup.” Humans are complex and imperfect. Table of contents: 00:00 – Intro01:01 – As an adult, treat yourself as an equal to others- you have a seat at the adult table04:35 – What is your place in the world- approach others with a cup that’s already full14:22 – Value your word, and honest even when it’s hard21:34 – Setting and enforcing your own boundaries25:18 – You are not responsible for the decisions of other adults27:10 – Prefer pro-social norms to anti-social norms29:20 – Only pursue relationships where you’ve doubled the love in two people’s lives by being in it30:24 – Only make apples-to-apples comparisons, if you have to compare yourself to others at all35:43 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Your Place in the World (Ep. 3) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In this episode, we’re going to delve into a philosophy of adulthood that makes it empowering and liberating, rather than onerous and burdensome. We challenge a few popular notions, like that self-love is self-centred, or that truth is irrelevant in a world where narrative is everything. This is the guide to life that your parents should have given you by the age of 18, but didn’t. Your hosts are Luke Chao, founder of The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis, and Pascal Langdale, the newest addition to our team. While Luke has been a lifelong hypnotherapist and speaks from that perspective, Pascal has had a diverse and wide-ranging career—most prominently in the performing arts—and is a father in a blended family. In this episode, we talk about how: There is inherent value in being alive and honoring one’s life, regardless of circumstances. Our existence is extraordinary given the low probability of being born as you are. Self-care, self-love, and self-respect are important for well-being and ensuring one can continue serving themselves well through challenges. As adults, we have freedom but can feel overwhelmed by choices; focusing inward on our values can help navigate this. Play, joy, art and culture are important parts of being alive that celebrate life even during hard times. Telling the truth, even when uncomfortable, is better in the long run for one’s conscience and relationships than lying or denial. Maintaining curiosity and openness to new experiences into adulthood helps ensure a full, rich life with continuous learning and growth. Responsibility in adulthood can be recast positively as freedom and agency rather than a burden, depending how one was parented. Adulthood freedoms help one navigate difficulties, unlike childhood where options were limited. Self-care and fulfillment of basic needs are prerequisites for happiness. With greater power as an adult comes opportunity to shape the world for good through one’s responsibilities. Table of contents: 00:00 – Introduction00:57 – You are the captain of your own ship04:23 – Care for yourself because you are life08:21 – Speak to yourself as a friend09:39 – Why we should care for ourselves14:44 – Find a common humanity18:40 – Why adults should care about truth24:41 – Prefer pro-social views26:17 – Choose your path32:34 – Take responsibility37:18 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Be an Adult: The Untold Lesson (Ep. 2) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Our team has launched a new podcast, called How to Be an Adult. It’s the trail guide to life that you should have received when you turned 18, but didn’t. Whether you’re 18 or 80, we intend to help you to feel like an equal to your peers, and to live excellently. In the first episode, your co-hosts Luke Chao and Pascal Langdale discuss what it even means to be an adult. We discuss definitions, rites of passage, and how adulthood should feel empowering and liberating, rather than onerous and burdensome: This podcast aims to provide practical guidance for people who have become adults but don’t feel like they know what to do. We share thoughts to democratize self-assurance as an aspect of adulthood. Adulthood is defined beyond just legal definitions and looks at factors like emotional maturity and reasoning ability. Feelings of adulthood don’t necessarily indicate being an adult, as feelings can mislead. Outward markers don’t guarantee internal feelings of adulthood. Developmental psychology differentiates childhood, adolescence and adulthood as distinct phases, rather than seeing children as deficient adults. Responsibility can feel burdensome if one feels not up to it, but empowering if one feels able to fulfill it. Underestimating oneself is common. Identity is partially socially negotiated beyond just jobs/careers, including relationships with friends and family. Commercial value at work doesn’t encompass full humanity or value as a living being. Responsibility for one’s outcomes and future depends on steering one’s own course, not blaming others. Principles discussed aim to be universally applicable to humans rather than just individuals. Future episodes will outline axioms of treating oneself with respect, valuing truth, and being prosocial. Table of contents: 00:00 – Introduction02:02 – Definition of terms03:09 – Legal and personal rites of passage07:25 – When you feel like an adult, and what that means11:13 – Childhood as a 20th century concept12:25 – Adulthood can be empowering and liberating15:32 – You have power over what surrounds you22:16 – Shame and accountability25:43 – What to expect from upcoming episodes30:48 – Qualifications of your hosts Pascal Langdale is our newest hypnotherapist. Born in London, he comes from a storied background in the performing arts. His understanding of humanity enriches our team’s conversations about human emotion and motivation. Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party ads. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post What Is an Adult? (Ep. 1) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.