Criticism and feedback are fundamental to growing as an individual and professional. However, often, our brain perceives such conflicts as a threat. The amygdala acts upon this and kicks in our survival instincts. As a result, we check out and shut down to protect ourselves. 

How do we avoid acting from this place of fear and focus on working toward developing ourselves?

In this quick dip episode, we uncover the overarching principle of the amygdala. We discuss how to avoid an amygdala hijack and how not to operate from our threat zone. We have a choice around how we perceive and respond to triggers. We introduce the first principle of the SCARF Model and how to get over it.

Learn how to minimise threats for yourself and others. If you want to know how to avoid an amygdala hijack, this episode is for you. 

Here are three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:

1. Learn why avoiding amygdala hijack increases performance and happiness.
2. Discover the idea of Civility Saves Lives.
3. Discover the 'S' in the SCARF model.

Episode Highlights

[00:28] Avoiding Amygdala Hijack

[02:55] Civility Saves Lives

[04:16] You Have a Choice

[07:37] The ‘S’ in SCARF Model

[08:38] Becoming Aware of How You Display Status

[10:05] Getting Over Status

[10:51] Being in a Higher Status

Resources

• You Are Not A Frog Ep 167: Why We Become Terrible in a Crisis
• Civility Saves Lives
• Learn about the SCARF Model by David Rock
• THRIVE Weekly Planner
• Sign up here to receive a link to the episode workbook and CPD form downloads for each podcast. You can use them for reflection and to submit for your appraisal.

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Connect With Me

Have any questions? Contact Rachel through these platforms:

LinkedIn: @Dr-Rachel-Morris 

Twitter: @DrRachelMorris

Email: [email protected]

Find out more about our training here.

Mentioned in this episode:

FrogFest Virtual 2025