In this special Thanksgiving episode of My BrainWise Coach, co-hosts Cole Bastian and Phil Dixon embark on an exploration of the concept of 'multiple characters' within us. They discuss how different aspects of our personality show up in various contexts and why it is important to identify and understand these traits. They share personal anecdotes and real-life examples, providing insights into how recognizing these characters can improve personal and professional interactions. Additionally, they celebrate their 800 subscribers milestone and announce the winners of their latest contest. The episode concludes with BrainWise moments, offering a blend of neuroscience and behavioral science with practical takeaways just in time for the holiday season.

00:00 Welcome and Thanksgiving Greetings

01:01 Contest Winners Announcement

02:01 Reflecting on Podcast Growth

05:17 Introduction to Multiple Characters

06:56 Understanding and Identifying Multiple Characters

08:57 Real-Life Examples of Multiple Characters

14:40 Practical Applications of Multiple Characters

15:43 Exploring Personal Multiple Characters

19:15 Common Multiple Characters and Their Contexts

27:10 Combining and Managing Multiple Characters

32:41 BrainWise Moments and Final Thoughts

Here are some insights that will guide your exploration:

1. Identify Your Characters: Begin by acknowledging the different personas you have. Are you a gentle teacher at times and a stern general at others? Recognize these roles without judgment.
2. Contextual Awareness: Different characters show up in different contexts. By being aware of when and where they emerge, you can use them to your advantage, such as bringing out a focused, business-oriented character in professional settings.
3. The Power of Naming: Naming your characters can be a powerful tool. It can help you control and understand them better, like calling a protective side "The Protector" or a more assertive side "The General."
4. Balance Emotional and Rational Sides: Recognize when your left brain (logical, analytical) and right brain (emotional, creative) are influencing your decisions and actions.
5. Navigating Inner Conflicts: Sometimes, characters might be in conflict, like wanting to be carefree while also being responsible. Navigate these conflicts thoughtfully.
6. Use Your Inner Team: Think of your characters as a team you can deploy in different situations. Which one is best suited for the task at hand?
7. Encourage Playfulness: Allow yourself to be playful in this exploration. Finding humor in your characters can ease the tension in discovering and managing them.
8. Learn Through Reflection: As you engage with these characters, reflect on past situations. When did they help or hinder you?

BrainWise Tips

• Embrace Diversity in Yourself: Just like embracing diversity in others, embrace the various characters that live within you.
• Engage in Self-Dialogue: Have a conversation with your characters. This can be a private reflection or a structured exercise.
• Acknowledge Strengths and Weaknesses: Each character has both. Understand these to better deploy them in fitting scenarios.