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In this episode, we delve into the core tenets of Stoicism, discussing the four cardinal virtues and how they serve as pivotal tools in our life. We'll dissect what they mean, their relevance, and how to apply them in our everyday living. Moreover, we spotlight the concept of philosophical journaling—a method adopted by the Stoics and modern-day Cognitive Behavioral Therapy alike, and its transformative effects.

Why You'd Want to Listen:

• Delve deeper into the philosophy that has shaped great leaders and thinkers throughout history.
• Learn about philosophical journaling and how it can be a transformative daily practice.
• Discover actionable steps for self-awareness, self-coaching, and reshaping destructive patterns.
• Combine meditation practices with journaling for a synergistic effect on self-improvement.
• Learn to integrate these practices daily and see genuine, long-lasting changes in behavior and thought processes.

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Here is a remix of a premium lesson I created for my 7-Day Stoic Radical Gratitude Course about the importance of awe and wonder. It includes music, whereas the original does not. 

Enjoy! 

🤗 

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🎥 Watch the video that goes with this podcast here:
https://youtu.be/R0ll911BVmM?si=mT1Qq6nfoxqzXziv

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🚨 Watch the video version of this podcast over on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/H6QUMkbjWqY?si=exfXyM1QXiLVkojE

In this exploration of Epictetus' Enchiridion Chapter 19, we delve into the profound Stoic understanding of success and failure. 

Many in today's society grapple with feelings of envy and frustration, often due to external factors beyond our control. Epictetus teaches that true freedom and happiness lie in understanding the distinction between what we can and can't control. Instead of competing in external contests that can lead to inevitable defeat, one should focus on personal growth and character. 

Succumbing to envy and placing value on external achievements only leads to unhappiness. True success is anchored in good character and the wisdom to recognize it. Remember, freedom is about looking beyond outward appearances and valuing our internal essence.

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• Stoic Handbook Premium
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• Stoic Handbook Newsletter

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Support the show

Resources

• Stoic Handbook Premium
• Stoic Anxiety Mastery
• Stoic Handbook Newsletter

Send us a text

“If we’re in a fully awakened state, trauma’s not a problem. In a sense, it’s not trauma. It just becomes something beloved. It becomes washed through with love and acceptance. That’s the healing.”
— Henry Shukman, HEx Podcast #55

While Western mental health often focuses on eliminating trauma and pain as if they were thorns to be plucked, Eastern philosophies offer a contrasting perspective: embracing suffering through unconditional love and acceptance, thereby neutralizing its negative impact.

The terms "awakening" and "healing" are frequently used interchangeably, though they convey distinct concepts. Healing is the act of mending what is fragmented, optimizing what can be improved, and integrating what has been divided. In contrast, awakening refers to the awareness of reality's non-dual nature, a realization that there is nothing to mend or improve because everything is inherently perfect and whole.

So, should we bypass healing and jump straight to awakening? According to Henry Shukman, our guest for this episode, the answer is more nuanced.

Henry is a seasoned meditation instructor who has harmoniously blended various meditative disciplines with psychotherapy, plant medicine, and other therapeutic practices to create a synergistic path toward wholeness in his own life. From the depths of eczema and despair to profound enlightenment and peace, Henry has navigated a balanced pathway that he shares in this illuminating discussion.

Join us as Henry generously lays down the stepping stones for us to traverse the intricate landscapes of healing and awakening.

What We Explore:

• Henry's transformative awakening journey and the subsequent emotional challenges
• How awakening alters our relationship with trauma
• A powerful solution to combat loneliness
• Initiating the journey into non-duality while dealing with trauma
• Practical approaches to working with Zen koans
• Can ordinary individuals achieve true awakening?
• Henry’s top Zen resources and recommendations
• Strategies for finding the right spiritual mentors and practices
• The viability of making substantial progress via online spiritual training courses

Tune in for an enlightening episode that bridges the gap between healing and awakening, and offers practical guidance for those navigating both realms.

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• Stoic Handbook Premium
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In this episode, we explore the idea of bad luck omens and how to navigate them using principles from Stoic philosophy. Whether it's a forecast of bad weather or hearing a concerning noise from your car, these signs often unsettle us. Learn how to turn these instances into opportunities for personal growth and well-being.

Key Takeaways:

1. Dichotomy of Control: Understand what is within your control and what is not.
2. Reframing: Learn to view bad luck omens as opportunities for growth, rather than as setbacks.
3. Empowerment: By reframing your perspective, you become more in control of your life narrative.
4. Evidence-based Approach: There are no adverse effects to reframing too much; it's a beneficial practice.

Appreciate you tuning in. Take the Stoic approach to navigate through life's uncertainties and remember that every sign can be a good luck sign if you choose for it to be. 

Please leave a review if you find my work helpful. 

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In this episode, we delve into the philosophy of Essentialism, inspired by Greg McKeown's book "Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less." We explore how the constraints of parenthood led to a transformation in productivity, focus, and overall well-being. Whether you're a parent, a digital nomad, or someone juggling multiple interests, this episode offers valuable insights into making the most of your limited time and energy.

Why You Should Listen:

• Discover the Philosophy of Essentialism: Learn how focusing on less can actually lead to more meaningful results in every aspect of your life.
• Parenting as a Catalyst for Change: Hear a firsthand account of how the responsibilities of parenthood can be a powerful motivator for personal growth.
• The Moscow Method: Understand a simple yet effective method for prioritizing tasks and projects in your life.
• The Professional Mindset: Learn why waiting for inspiration is the hallmark of an amateur and how to cultivate a professional approach to your passions.
• The Power of Limitations: Find out how constraints can actually fuel creativity and productivity.
• Trade-offs and Choices: Understand the importance of making conscious choices and trade-offs in a world filled with endless opportunities.
• Art and Essentialism: Learn how the principles of Essentialism can be applied to artistic pursuits for more fulfilling results.
• The Real Value of Things: Gain insights into assessing the true value of your tasks, relationships, and goals.

Relevant Resources:

• Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
• The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
• Maxims by Francois La Rochefoucauld
• Greg McKeown's Videos on Essentialism
• The Big Five Personality Test

Tune in to discover how to live a more focused, meaningful, and productive life by embracing the principles of Essentialism.

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In this episode, we delve into the complexities of anxiety with Dr. Aziz Gazipura. We explore four primary frameworks that explain the origins of anxiety:

1. Exposure: Anxiety stems from avoiding certain situations.
2. Cognitive: Irrational thoughts can escalate our anxiety levels.
3. Biological: Biochemical shifts can also trigger anxiety.

But the fourth, known as "The Hidden Emotion Model," suggests that unaddressed issues and suppressed emotions in our lives are key contributors to anxiety. This is essentially another term for being "too nice."

Being "nice" often means keeping the peace at the expense of your own feelings, which can ultimately lead to emotional turmoil and mental health struggles. I can personally relate to this, as my perspective changed after diving into Dr. Aziz's work.

Dr. Aziz Gazipura is not just a compelling speaker but also holds a PhD in clinical psychology. This makes his work both engaging and rooted in scientific research. He specializes in helping people build social confidence.

In our discussion, we cover a wide array of topics, including:

- Why Dr. Aziz emphasizes the pitfalls of being "too nice."
- The role of trauma healing in contrast to self-optimization.
- The significance of Shadow work and techniques for practicing it.
- Striking a balance between assertiveness and compassion.
- Dr. Aziz's personal journey from shyness to social confidence.
- Ways to express yourself without reservation.

And much more! Don't miss this enlightening episode.

Dr. Aziz Books: https://www.socialconfidencecenter.com/books

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"It's possible to be a legitimate victim of something... but to not be consumed by the label of victim."

"The victim mindset is not just disempowering, it's also foolish, inaccurate, and irrational."

In this enlightening discussion, we delve deep into the concept of the "victim mentality." While acknowledging the legitimacy of being a victim in certain situations, the focus is on the overarching mindset where one perceives themselves as a perpetual victim, feeling that life is constantly against them.

Here's what you'll learn:

• Understand the difference between being a victim of an event and adopting a victim mentality.
• Discover the hidden benefits and drawbacks of the victim mindset.
• Learn about the origins of the victim mentality from childhood experiences.
• Gain insights into the Stoic philosophy and its perspective on external events.
• Explore the concept of self-ownership and taking responsibility without self-blame.
• Dive into the practice of Jiu Jitsu and the inspiring story of coach John Danaher.
• Understand the profound wisdom of German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche on loving one's fate.
• Engage in the "good exercise" to shift perspectives on challenges.
• Delve into the concept of radical gratitude and its transformative power.
• Get a sneak peek into the intriguing topic of the inner critic and its role in self-sabotage.

Join me in this deep dive into the victim mentality, its origins, its implications, and the transformative power of Stoic philosophy and radical gratitude. Whether you've felt trapped in this mindset or are simply curious about human psychology, this talk offers valuable insights and tools for personal growth.

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• Stoic Handbook Premium
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