Get a Better Handle On Life: Recent Episodes
Barry Winbolt
We are seeing a noticeable drop in standards of public courtesy. I think we all know some of the contributors, public figures and politicians giving free rein to their and fleeting judgments and prejudices with no regard for the normal rules of civil discourse.
This appears to be affecting how we, the public, act when trying to get our needs met, particularly when we are under pressure. Little thought seems to be given to some of the people whose jobs involve dealing with the public. Is it time to name bad behaviour and call it out?
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
tinycast #tinycastuk #badbehaviour #difficultpeople #trump #incivility #relationships
If you've got a single idea in your head about something that happened with another person, and it's harming you, harming your relationship, or both, this Tinycast is for you. When we can't step back from it and see an alternative point of view, and you can't hear the other person's explanation, this gets us into trouble a lot of the time.
Our need for explanations regarding others' behaviour, can distort our thinking and harm relationships. This brief Tinycast explains how fixating on a single explanation for someone's actions can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. To counter this, psychologist Barry Winbolt illustrates a technique for fostering mental flexibility, and reducing harmful ruminations. This approach promotes clarity and healthier relationships.
When unwanted change hits us it's natural to want to get through it as quickly as possible and put the past behind us. The paradox is, though, that our eagerness to move on can make drag out the process and hold up how we adapt.
Got a question? Contact me.
Post: Moving On Might Mean Standing Still
tinycast #tinycastuk #findingmeaning #dealingwithchange #transition #mentalwellbeing #personalgrowth
Here's an idea that can have real impact in a person't life.
When someone says “I’m unhappy”, “I need to see you in my office at 3.00”, or “Don’t call us, we’ll call you”, the chances are the listener will provide their own overlay of meaning and start to worry. In which case, it’s the MEANING (not stated but provided by the listener) which triggers the worry.
Whatever the information the speaker intends to convey gets overshadowed by the meaning the listener imposes on it.
Now you know that, listen for how to use it.
Got a question? Contact me.
Post: Whatever they say, It's Just Information
tinycast #tinycastuk #findingmeaning #attributions #hurtfeelings #mentalwellbeing #personalgrowth
Libby King, a gay solo parent-to-be, faced discrimination and isolation during her journey to start a family, with healthcare professionals often assuming she was heterosexual.
Libby’s personal experiences fueled her determination to help others. She founded the LGBT+ Parent Support Group, Bourne This Way, to offer guidance, community, and belonging for LGBTQ+ families and prospective parents. The committee at Bourne This Way is diverse, with each member contributing their own unique experiences. Together, they are committed to fostering growth, listening to members, and offering valuable support.
As the founder and chair, Libby’s mission is to help others find belonging and support on their own parenting journeys.
Find out more about Libby King at https://bournethiswaylgbtparents.co.uk
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
bournethisway #getabetterhandleonlife #LGBTQparenting #InclusiveParenting #SoloParentJourney
Another enlightening conversation with Adele Leah. We talk about understanding your superpower, finding your voice, working to your strengths and talents, and idenitifying your tribe. There's a whole lot of 'finding' going on in this episode, and as ever, how to apply it to help you get a better handle on life!
Adele brings some real gems into the conversation and offers some free resources too.
So if you're at a point in your career where you're dreading Monday morning, or maybe you're just wanting a change, and you're not quite sure how to go about it, this could be the essential episode for you.
Find out more about Adele at www.adeleleah.com
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
getabetterhandleonlife #personalcoaching #adeleleah #superpower #careermove
You don't have to be an optimist to learn to think positively about yourself and the future. You can learn the skills and reap the benefits of optimism.
Learning optimism and teaching ourselves to use it by choice can have far reaching consequences that reach deep into our unconscious processes and create emotional and physical resilience. Even if it doesn’t suit you to take a positive outlook, becoming more resilient should still be of interest for its proven advantages when dealing with the unavoidable setback and adversity that life throws at us.
Got a question? Contact me.
Post: Think Like an Optimist – New Possibilities
tinycast #tinycastuk #optimisticthinkinging #thinklikeanoptimist #resilience #mentalwellbeing #personalgrowth
Here's a simple formula to help you manage the stress in your life. Stress is everywhere, we all experience it to some degree. But, although we acknowledge it and it gets talked about a lot, the advice we get is often rather banal and not a lot of practical value (slow down, simplify your life, get a hobby…).
Contours stress can lead to overwhelm, but there are simple ways to take the pressure off and build your resilience to the pressure.
My way starts with three simple questions that lead you straight into thinking about what you can do to reduce the stress you are experiencing.
Got a question? Contact me.
Video: How to Develop a Stress Gauge
tinycast #tinycastuk #stress #reilience #stressmanagement #overwhelm #prioritising
Learn What it Means to be Free through the Journey to Realness with my guest, Oli Anderson, Transformational Coach and author. He explains why he thinks that "99% of our problems in life are caused by our mis-perceptions of what is actually real".
We explore how becoming more self-aware can help you understand and break free from negative habits and inhibiting beliefs.
We discuss the importance of 'realness' and accepting all parts of yourself, including shame, which he says is a major obstacle for many people. The aim is to to grow and develop self-compassion, with new understanding that can lead to a life that reflects your true values and purpose, benefiting both you and those around you.
Oli eloquently describes how being real and authentic fosters genuine connections, creativity, and meaningful contributions, leading to a more harmonious and fulfilling life. Join us to see why being real is key to success –because "real always works".
Got a question? Contact me.
Contact Oli Anderson.
realness #authenticity #shame #coaching #creativity #flow #confidence
Rather than perceiving imperfections as shortcomings, view them as reservoirs of strength.
Embracing the Japanese philosophy of kintsugi involves recognising the beauty in imperfections, and applying this mindset to your life can be transformative.
Understanding that perfection is an unattainable standard and accepting yourself allows more time and mental energy to grow. What sets you apart is the unique mosaic of your flaws.
Got a question? Contact me.
Post: Kintsugi – Reframe Your Imperfections
tinycast #tinycastuk #confidence #success #positivepsychology #reframing #personalgrowth #kintsugi
There’s a myth that confidence is something your either have or don’t have. While some of us seem to be naturally more outgoing, ready to engage, and sure of our actions, it doesn’t follow that we are confident in everything we do. We are all under-confident in some things, sometimes.
Got a question? Contact me.
Post: How to Grow Your Confidence
tinycast #tinycastuk #confidence #success #positivepsychology #personalgrowth #selfesteem #motivation
Overthinking happens when you overanalyse or overthink a problem to a point where it seems impossible to move forward or find a solution. You can’t make a decision, nor take action… You are stuck in an endless cycle of rumination.
Instead of problem-solving, you dwell on an issue without finding a rational solution. It becomes an endless cycle of negativity that constantly plays on your mind.
Got a question? Contact me.
Post: Recognising andDefeating Rumination and Overthinking
Check out: How to Stop Overthinking – My video course
tinycast #tinycastuk #rumination #overthinking #analysisparalysis #mentalhealth #thoughts
In order to be a leader you must have those who are willing to follow you. Creating a culture of leadership means that Transformational leadership skills, performed well, will achieve this.
Are you struggling with the pain of heartbreak? Discover effective ways to heal and move forward in my latest 5-minute Tinycast, Ease the Pain of Heartbreak. This practical guide offers instant tips to help you calm the emotional turmoil and find peace. You can manage your feelings, rebuild your self-esteem, and create a positive outlook for the future. Don't let heartbreak hold you back. Listen now and start your journey towards healing and happiness.
Subscribe to my channel for more helpful advice and support on relationships and personal growth.
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
Post: How to Heal a Broken Heart
Podcast episode: How to Heal a Broken Heart – Coping to Bereavement and Loss
tinycast #tinycastuk #breakup #heartbreak #healing #loss #grieving #lonely #selfcare #relationships
The seven habits of highly resilient people adds up to a recipe for resilience. If you are having a stressful time there is a lot you can do to help yourself. People who deal well with stress have certain characteristics which set them apart. Some of these factors are qualities we all have to some extent, and they can be learned and developed.
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
More on my blog: The Seven Habits of Highly Resilient People
tinycast #tinycastuk #wellbeing #mentalhealth #resilience #selfcare #emotionalintelligence #positiveoutlook
Here are five ways curiosity can benefit your wellbeing. Discover how embracing curiosity can enhance learning and growth, boost mental health, foster stronger relationships, promote resilience, and increase life satisfaction. Five minutes to reflect on why to cultivate curiosity and unlock a richer, more fulfilling life. Don't miss out on these insights that can transform your well-being!
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
Post: Nurture Your Curiosity and be Lustful
tinycast #tinycastuk #curiosity #wellbeing #mentalhealth #resilience #relationships #learning
Change is Scary, but it is also an Opportunity. Major change impacts our lives in three ways. The first two are the change itself and the effect on our circumstances. The biggest impact, and the part we so often neglect, is the process of psychological adaptation to the change. You may not like the change, but there are always new possibilities.
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
Post: Change and Transition – 'Moving On' Might Mean Standing Still
tinycast #tinycastuk #personalboundaries #wellbeing #mentalhealth #personalvalues #friendship #selfcare #relationships
We are in an age where what has been called a 'crisis of masculinity' threatens men's sense of identity, as expectations of behaviour are shifting and traditional roles are eroded. In this engaging conversation, strategic coach and author Purdeep Sangha talks about how this could spell danger for the future of men's relationships, and the shifts that confuse the idea of masculinity. He lists the five top challenges men are facing today, how these impact men's lives, and wider costs for their wellbeing and in their relationships.
Book: The Complete Man
getabetterhandleonlife #relationships #masculinitysofragile #masculinitytoday #men #mensroles #thecompleteman #purdeepsangha
Understanding personal boundaries and values is crucial for a balanced life. Boundaries and values are linked. Our values define or boundaries, which in turn reinforces our values. This Tinycast, explores how your values and boundaries interconnect to create a life of integrity and balance.
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
Post: The Vital Links Between Personal Boundaries and Values
tinycast #tinycastuk #personalboundaries #wellbeing #mentalhealth #personalvalues #friendship #selfcare #relationships
We tend to think of startups being the province of younger people, but older entrepreneurs have a higher success rate.
Though a small set of exceptional individuals may have built amazing companies while young, the fact is that most successful entrepreneurs are older, often in their forties, fifties, or even later in life.
This is the domain chosen by business coach Suzanne Mountain.
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
Suzanne Mountain's website: https://suzannemountain.com/
getabetterhandleonlife #businesscoaching #olderentrepreneurs #over50s
Break free from the trap of comparing yourself with others, embrace your authenticity, and improve your mental health. The lure of social media can lead you the wrong way.
Got a question? Contact me.
Related post: Break Free from the Curse of Comparing: Cultivating Authenticity in a Social Media Age
tinycast #tinycastuk #authenticity #curseofcomparing #mentalwellbeing #socialmedia
Thankyou to the listener who contacted me saying "Let’s give our next generation the life skills that we didn’t learn at school". In this 5-minutes I share her 11 suggestions. What do you think? Would you add anything? I'll cover each individually in Tinycasts over the next few weeks.
Got a question? Contact me.
tinycast #tinycastuk #lifeskills #successinlife
"It is what it is", "You can't win 'em all"... When a challenge stumps us, or we find ourselves with a dilemma for which we have no immediate explanation or answer, we tend to resort to platitudes that allow us to set the problem aside. Handy though this is, there is a more sinister side-effect of these 'though-stopping clichés'.
Got a question or comment? Contact me.
Post: Beware the Thought Stopping Cliches that Halt Discussion and Stifle Debate.
tinycast #tinycastuk #haltdiscussion #stopdebate #groupthink #itiswhatitis #clashofpersonalities #thoughtstoppingcliches
These proven steps to wellbeing are the basis of a good life, but they are the first to go when we are under pressure. Simple and free, they can be built into any day.
Got a question or a comment? Contact me here.
Post: Simple Steps to Wellbeing and Why You Need them
tinycast #tinycastuk, #wellbeing #resilience #mentalhealth #5minutepodcast
If you are preparing for a sensitive conversation you’ll want to avoid creating unnecessary tension or awkwardness. In this Tinycast I provide the seven essential, practical tips to help you approach difficult discussions with confidence and empathy
Got a question? Contact me.
Free download: Planning a Tricky Conversation – My Free Guide
tinycast #tinycastuk #difficultconversation #conflict #relationships
Many people ship away from it, but asking for help or support can be seen as a personal strength. It shows that we are self-aware, that we understand our needs, and that we value ourselves, and that we trust others enough to approach them.
"Asking for help is a superpower anyone can have but only some people use. It is brave to ask for help. Asking for help is the first step toward finding a mentor. Mentors can help us change our lives if we let them."
— Alexi Pappas, Bravey
Got a question or comment? Contact me here.
Tinycast #TinycastUK #askforhelp #coaching #mentoring #personalgrowth
Have you ever noticed? People listen to people who listen to them! Here's a simple communication hack to improve how you listen. In this 5-minute Tinycast I outline the benefits that this one thing can bring. Show interest in others means that they are more likely to remember you.
Got a question or a request? Contact me here.
tinycast #tinycastuk #effectivecommunication #workplacetip #getnoticed #earnrespect #listening skills #getnoticed
We all have a right to our opinions, and we tend ton think that our opinions are 'right'. But there is a clear distinction between a fact and an opinion, so beware of confusing the two, in both the giving and the receiving.
Got a question or a comment? WhatsApp me at Tinycast
Post:
tinycast #tinycastuk, #opinions #factorfiction #fakenews
When it comes to helping someone in crisis, I often hear people saying something which includes the phrase “… but I’m not qualified.”
It drives me nuts, because, any human being is ‘qualified’ to help another human being. Since when did you need to be ‘qualified’ to extend a helping hand, listen patiently, sit with another person, support others, offer help….?
Post: Don't Think You're Qualified to Help Others? Take This Quiz
tinycast #tinycastuk
What if you looked in the mirror and saw a skeletal version of yourself staring back at you? Would you be proud of your emaciated figure, or would you break down in tears? For Michele Mason, this haunting question became a daily reality when Anorexia Nervosa stripped her 5'11" frame down to a mere 96 pounds.
Decades later, Michele realised the immense importance of sharing her story rather than burying it deep within herself. In a candid and courageous memoir, Michele dives into the harrowing depths of her Anorexia hell, recounting her journey from before the deadly illness took hold, through the long, grueling days of her ordeal, and finally to the triumphant moment when she emerged victorious as a healthy, happy survivor.
Her book, Annihilating Anorexia is a testimony to the strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. Michele's story serves as a beacon of hope to those struggling with Anorexia, offering guidance, support, and a glimpse into the light at the end of the tunnel.
Annihilating Anorexia: A Memoire
Contact Barry Winbolt
anorexia #eatingdisorders #mentalhealth #getabetterhandleonlife
Is it worth five minutes of your time to learn how to stop an argument? Take control and make yourself proud. Confident people know it's not about winning.
Like most people, I learned the hard way how NOT to do it. But then, 30 years as a professional conflict resolver has taught me a thing or two about how to stop an argument, now I’m sharing it with you.
Got a question or a comment? WhatsApp me at Tinycast
Post: How to Stop Arguing – You Have Control with These Steps
tinycast #tinycastuk, #conflict #stoparguing
Have you heard of self-fulfilling prophecies? Countless examples show that success is all about attitude. If you believe you can do something, chances are you will. But if you think you can't, you're likely to prove yourself right. It's about the power of positive thinking and how our mindset shapes our reality.
Got a question? WhatsApp Tinycast
Post: Be Careful What You Wish For, How Attitude Predicts Success
tinycast #positivepsychology #attributionalstyle #positiveattitude #growthmindset
Single Session Therapy is a reality, but there are doubters. There would be, wouldn't there? Old ideas persist (or should that be 'resist'), not least among therapists themselves. Get over it, single-session therapy is needed, now more than ever.
tinycast #mentalhealth #sfbt #sst # solutionfocusedtherapy
Got a question or comment? WhatsApp me at Tinycast
Blog: Single Session Therapy is a Matter of Choice
tinycast #tinycastuk, #brieftherapy #singlesessiontherapy
Conflict is a fascinating and absorbing topic and despite many people’s anxiety about it, not one to be afraid of. On the contrary, since it is inevitable that we’ll have to deal with conflict throughout our lives, it is naive and irresponsible to stay on the sidelines and remain ignorant of the basic rules of the game.
But, before you wade in, remember the one essential truism I cover in this Tinycast.
Got a question or a comment? WhatsApp me at Tinycast
Post: Conflict is Inevitable, Fighting Isn't
tinycast #tinycastuk, #conflict #mediation #peace
We know about "you are what you eat", the food we put into our moths affects our bodies. The same applies to the stuff we feed our minds with, what's more, it will self-fertilise so, take care to protect yourself from pervasive negativity and bad news.
Got a question or a comment? WhatsApp me at Tinycast
Article: What Happened When I avoided the News for 30 Days
tinycast #tinycastuk, #positivenews #feedyourmind
Today's Tinycast was not my idea, but it is one I use all the time.
The title says it all, you can learn a lot by writing about your experience. Start with a short note, or a sentence or two, and build from there. Do it the old-fashioned way, in a notebook, because that helps the reflective process.
Try it and see, writing I mean...
Resources
Got a question or a comment? WhatsApp me at Tinycast
Writing about one problem often shows up others that are more important.
#tinycast #tinycastuk #journaling #writing
Ref: I got this from The FS Blog, said to be “The world’s most impactful newsletter.”
Acts of kindness benefit the giver and the receiver, they can also ripple out. It's not just about being nice. Studies show that "kindness is an antidote to isolation and creates a sense of belonging. It helps reduce stress, brings a fresh perspective and deepens friendships. Kindness to ourselves can prevent shame from corroding our sense of identity and help boost our self-esteem." (Mental Health Foundation).
Resources
Got a question or comment? WhatsApp me at Tinycast
Podcast episode: Sarah Browning, Kindness in Business
Supporting post: Kindness and the Warm Glow of Modest Contribution
The Mental Health Foundation: Kindness and Mental Health
tinycast #tinycastuk #KindnessMatters #makesomeonesmile #mentalwellbeing
There are millions of square miles go self-help books, videos, podcasts, and the rest with advice on how to improve your life. I have read a few hundred, and lost count of the hours spent listening, viewing, and attending workshops.
I've learned a lot, and together with life experience – professional and private – I've come up with a simple formula that makes all the rest redundant: my Two-step Life Improvement Plan.
Contact Barry Winbolt
Two-step life improvement plan
Find out what’s bugging you
Do something about it
Remember, it is unlikely that someone else will fix your life for you, so best to do it yourself.
We all do it, and mostly that's just give and take. Sometimes though, we are ignoring the early warning signs...
tinycast #tinycastuk #relationship #hardtruths
Tinycast, I mean. I thought I'd better explain, and, by the way, have you noticed the self-help has become mainstream? The figures prove it.
So many people say they are far too busy with daily demands, and it's true that life seems to be getting ever busier... So here's an idea that might help.
Every ambition starts with the imagination. You could say that everything we do starts with the imagination, good or bad. Ditch the bad and opt for the good?
Resources
You'll find more about this on my blog.
Contact Barry Winbolt
tinycastuk #useyourimagination #visualisation #positivepsychology
A useful idea in 5 minutes.
How do you behave when you are stuck with a situation you don't like? Do you do something to change it? Many of us don't (and I include myself), or at least, we leave it too long before we finally do something in desperation... or not at all.
Ring any bells? Check it out.
You'll find more about this on my blog.
Contact Barry Winbolt.
Vaihinger – The Philosophy of 'As If'
changingdirection #newbeginnings #solutionfocused #tinycastuk
It all started at breakfast, with something my wife told me. With her encouragement, no sooner had I finished my coffee, than I was in the studio while the idea was still fresh. How do we bounce back?
Disappointments, losses, rejections, setbacks... Common experiences and part of life, but they can be huge black holes nevertheless.
It turns out – and I only managed to put this into words as I recorded this episode – that there are three steps to take if you want to begin the process of adaptation following any significant life change.
Do you have a comment or question? I'd love to hear from you:
Contact me here
bouncingback #tinycastuk #reslience, #rejection #breakup #loss #disappointment #healing
Do you find yourself tossing and turning every night? Are you burdened by anxiety when it comes to sleep? Do you feel like you're in a constant battle with your own mind, struggling to find that elusive state of rest? If so, you're not alone.
In this episode, I'm speaking to Manohar Grandhi, a software engineer who, like many of you wrestled intermittently with insomnia early in his life, but then it became intrenched and making him anxious. He shares his journey from sleepless nights to peaceful sleep.
From his firsthand experiences, his early attempts failed he says failed because of what he calls 'desperation'. Despite the false starts, it was persistence that led him to develop effective strategies for overcoming insomnia and reclaiming natural sleep. These methods aren't just theoretical – they are practical solutions backed by science and centuries of wisdom – and they are all in his book.
Manohar explains how he freed himself from from anxiety, found peace of mind, and even ditched medication along the way. By embracing these techniques with an open mind and whole-hearted dedication, he explains, anyone can experience the transformative power of restful sleep.
So, if you're ready to bid farewell to sleepless nights and greet each morning with renewed energy and vitality, then stick around. Because by the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with the tools you need to sleep like a child—calm, carefree, and without a single anxious thought.
insomnia, #sleeplessness, #qualitysleep, #mindfulness, #relaxation, #anxiety, #natural sleep
Kindness and compassions are natural characteristics of our species. Though it’s mysterious and counter-intuitive in societies that live according to the gospel of personal identity and individual interest, there are countless daily examples of people doing nice things for each other with no reward in view, and spontaneously.
Three years ago, Sarah Browning embarked on a mission to counter the predominantly one-sided, pessimistic views provided by the media. She launched a programme to help raise awareness of the kindness that exists in the world
"The Time for Kindness programme is not about denying the bad things that go on in the world, but it is about saying that’s not the only story. Sharing stories of the kindness we see around us changes the narrative we have about the world and about ourselves within it. The more we ‘see kind’, the more we notice it and the better we feel."
In this episode, Sarah explains how she brings her message to the world of business and elsewhere. Start small she says, and offers a practical way to lift your spirits each day, just by observing.
Sarah' website: Time for Kindness
Links to Barry Winbolt
kindness #timeforkindness #careforothers #kindnessatwork #ChooseKindness.
It takes a particularly creative and fertile kind of mind to write good fantasy fiction. Seymour Jacklin has an intriguing process for capturing the engaging stories he writes and presents in his podcast Stories from the Borders of Sleep.
Seymour was born in Zimbabwe and enjoyed an African childhood, surrounded by a landscape that continues to haunt his waking and sleeping imagination.
Since arriving there as a student in 1996 to read Anthropology (he wanted to study Folklore, and it was the nearest he could get). He subsequently trained as a psychiatric nurse. The most consistent threads, throughout his life, he says, have been "an awareness of Divine reality, a passion for the written and spoken word, and an over-active imagination".
Having started the podcast as an outlet for his writing, and was soon surprised to discover that, as the listenership grew and he got feedback "it was clearly becoming a total magnet for insomniacs". He explains what he attributes this to, and how his stories are reaching a highly appreciative audience.
Links
Stories from the Borders of Sleep
Links to Barry Winbolt
fantasyfiction #seymourjacklin #sleepstories #insomnia #dreamstate #psychology
Discovering your purpose isn't a one-time event but a journey of self-discovery intertwined with values and contributions to community, or even humanity.
Unlike seeking happiness, purpose offers fulfillment and meaning. This episode explores the process of finding purpose, emphasising its evolution over time and its vital connection to personal growth.
By exploring key questions such as "What does 'purpose' mean to you?", "What are your natural strengths", and "What can you do today?" you will embark on a spiritual quest guided by curiosity, enthusiasm, and courage.
From understanding your strengths to exploring your passions, this episode offers insights, and provides a map for navigating your search for meaning and purpose, encouraging you to focus on personal growth, rather than a predefined destination.
Links
VIA Character Strengths Inventory
Blog post: Finding Purpose
Contact Barry Winbolt
findyourpurpose #purpose #innerlife #findmeaning #selffulfilment #goals #personalgrowth
How do you stay upbeat and happy when Life throws the worst stuff at you? It helps if you know your purpose.
I'm in conversation with Terry Tucker as he explains his quest for purpose amidst life's chaos, and finding clarity and direction during great uncertainty. Explore the importance of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance in navigating life's crossroads.
We hear from a guest who exemplifies positivity. Terry Tucker's story transcends the ordinary definition of inspiration. His resilience and positivity, even in the face of adversity, are truly remarkable. From battling cancer and undergoing the amputation of his left leg, Terry emerges as a beacon of hope and motivation. We'll be hearring about his journey, discovering how he learned to embrace life fully, refusing to surrender to despair. This compelling conversation is filled with inspiring insights and unwavering determination.
Contact Barry Winbolt
To learn more about Terry:
https://www.motivationalcheck.com
lifepurpose #purpose #selflove #lifecoach #growthmindset #beatcancer #terminalillness #positivity #motivation
The Secret Campsite is a small tent-only campsite near Lewes, in East Sussex, in the UK. Focused on nature, peace and outdoor space, the ethos of the site is to encourage contact with nature, especially the local wildlife.
You don't often find Nature, wildlife, and business in the same sentence, let alone in a fully functioning business with a special ethos.
Understanding the natural world seems to be a major factor in the founding of this enterprise. Protection of the tranquility of environment is paramount, which naturally means that there are certain rules visitors must adhere to.
Nevertheless, the interface between Nature and Business seems to be a winning formula.
In his episode I'm speaking to spoke to co-founder Tim Bullen, around themes of Nature, wildlife, protecting the environment, ecotherapy, and possibly an entirely new way of doing business.
Links
The Secret Campsite
Barry Winbolt
camping, #business #wildlife, #nature, #ecotherapy #wellbeing
If unexpected events often leave you feeling overwhelmed and stressed, this podcast episode is for you. Whether you typically manage your stress levels well, or not, a sudden change of plan can push you past your limit, and into overwhelm.
Listen to this episode and learn how better to cope with unexpected occurrences that can leave you feeling anxious and stressed. I'll tell you what is meant by headroom, and how you can can you develop it to increase your resilience to strss, with examples!
Plus, I have developed the Stress Barometer. You can use it to identify your stress level in real time, and act to create the headroom you need.
Links
The Stress Gauge
Find me here: Linkt.ree
stressmanagement #resilience #thestressgauge #anxiety #panicattack #lifepressures #overwhelm
Have you ever been desparate to change your life or something about yourself by you didn't know where to start? You knew exactly whare your goal was, but you just didn't know where to start or how to get there? If so, this episode is for you.
Daniel Hauge is a young, Danish entrepreneur who worked that out. It wasn't easy, but he learned how to stick to the plan, deal with the obstacles, and get to where he needed to be.
And now he's created a systemised approach to helping others move toward their full potential.
In this episode he's going to share how he did it and some of what he learned.
Starting from adolescent beginnings where an eye-opening moment told him that, in his words, his life "was not set to work out well", he committed to learning and designing an approach that would produce the results he wanted.
Contact Daniel Hauge
lifepurpose #love #selflove #soulpurpose #lifecoach
How important is it to thank your colleagues at work? Listen how you can transform your workplace culture for the better, AND boost your own popularity.
Regular contributor Rick Gough and I explore recognition at work from both sides, giving and receiving, and why acknowledging the efforts and accomplishments of colleagues is more than just a gesture – it's a cornerstone of building a positive and thriving work environment.
We discuss how recognition at work not only boosts morale but also fuels motivation and engagement across the board. Moreover, we'll examine how such acknowledgment sets a precedent for fostering a culture of appreciation and respect in the workplace, ultimately benefiting the entire organisation.
Don't miss this illuminating discussion, first broadcast on my radio show, Spotlight on Business, on Seahaven FM.
recognitionatwork #employeeengagement #PositiveWorkEnvironment #SpotlightOnBusiness #SeahavenFM
Find me here: https://linktr.ee/barrywinbolt
I was attempting to get Alexa to play my favourite track, but my words came out all wrong. I guessed I might be having some sort of cerebral malfunction, and it turned out to be right.
It's what is called a TIA, or mini stroke, and it is also a warning sign. Fortunately, the NHS team came to the rescue. Don't let them tell you "the NHS is broken".
But it's not all bad! A lot of good came out of it for me personally, and there were some major learning points coming from my experiences throughout the day.
Spoiler alert! It wasn't as bad as I thought, but it was a warning sign, and not just for me.
stroke #TIA #NHS #healthcrisis #wellbeing
There is, what I call the ‘logic of depression’. It completely skews your thinking when you are depressed. If you suffer from depression, you’ll know how utterly it can take you over and leave you feeling powerless to do anything about it.
When we understand how this faulty logic hijacks the mind and narrows our ability to see beyond the restricted view it dictates, we can begin to see new possibilities and break free of depression's clutches.
I was invited to be interviewed for the Stop Depression Summit in 2023 on the Logic of Depression. As so often happens when we are deeply involved in a conversation, ideas that we wouldn't normally have while alone, percolate through and become available to as in what I think of as a 'meeting of minds'.
Depression is a persuasive and pervasive condition that completely dominates your thinking. One of the reasons it is self-perpetuating is that this faulty logic colours our thinking and tells us things – always bad things, never good – that are utterly believable.
This is one of the main reasons that people who suffer this way depression don’t seek help. The Logic of Depression, as I call it, says that nothing will help, and there is no way out. Why would any reasonable person go against that?
This episode is a recoding of the interview I gave for the depression summit, in early 2023.
On my blog, you can find out more about the Logic of Depression.
Discover actionable strategies to heal a broken heart in this insightful podcast episode. Grieving the loss of a loved one is a universal human experience, but it doesn't have to consume you. Join me as I navigate the journey of healing, offering practical tips and comforting guidance. While the pain can feel overwhelming, remember that growth often emerges from adversity. Tune in to emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side of grief.
Here's a written version of the nine points I mention in this episode.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Love it or hate it, feedback is never really popular.
Most of us don't like giving feedback, and when it comes to receiving it, feedback is even less popular. Many people openly mistrust it! Feedback is intended to help us be better at what we do, so where do these negative feelings come from?
I'm in conversation with wise-manager and regular guest, Rick Gough. He shares his insights from his 28 years as a manager in a large multinational. We come up with some guidelines for giving AND receiving feedback, and in the process we stumble across some interesting side issues.
getabetterhandleonlife #businesstalk #givingfeedback
Contacts
Email Rick Gough
Email Barry Winbolt
Find me here: https://linktr.ee/barrywinbolt
Conventional wisdom is generally accepted, but it may or may not be the best advice to follow if you want to lead a fulfilling and unconventional life.
Because conventional wisdom usually goes unquestioned, it can create problems when incorrect ideas gain wide acceptance. This can make exploring new ideas much more difficult. In cases such as this, incorrect conventional wisdom can interfere with a person's health and the type of medical care they receive.
In this episode, I offer some powerful alternatives for opening up possibilities and stimulating creativity.
getabetterhandleonlife #conventionalwisdom #creativethinking
Find me here: https://linktr.ee/barrywinbolt
The book I mentioned is The Art of the Focused Conversation.
Eric was drawn into counselling after a slow process of realisation that, unless he did, he would lose someone who was extremely precious to him.
When we mentioned accountancy in this enlightening discussion, it was to draw parallels between learning, self-discovery, ambition, and success. What we discovered though, is the remarkable power of conversation to go where it needs to so that we can discover more about ourselves.
Creativity is only part of it, this is a testimony to how being brave enough to face who we really are can lead us to being unexpectedly content and, as you'll hear, genuinely happy.
Do you feel that life has more to offer you than your current situation allows? Or, maybe you are almost ready to take a leap of faith and do your own thing? What about friends and family, would they encourage you to break out and start an entirely new career?
Mohammed Kasujee faced all these questions. He discusses his inspiring account of his transition, and the deep sense of purpose that he learned to recognise and trust on his journey to greater fulfilment and happiness.
podcast #transition #career
Find Mhammed Kasujee: https://mkcareersolutions.com
Find Barry Winbolt at: https://linktr.ee/barrywinbolt
Surveys continue to show that employers are looking for qualities in their employees that will add value to the organisation.
Interviews are rarely pitched to draw out technical skills or knowledge, which are taken as read and supported by experience and qualifications.
Sure, they want proof that your skills are up to date, but, many questions are aimed at establishing more abstract and hard-to-prove qualities like motivation, creativity, communication skills, and attitudes towards working with colleagues.
Adele Leah calls these 'human skills' and explains why you should focus on the one piece of the career equation you can control – yourself. "It starts with conscious awareness", she says "Personal development allows you to take a step back, take stock, and make better choices about your career, rather than striving for a vision of success that isn't going to make you happy."
podcast #career #getabettercareer #selfhelp
Find Adele Leah: www.adeleleah.com
Find Barry Winbolt at: https://linktr.ee/barrywinbolt
The World Health Organisation says that there is an 'epidemic of Sleeplessness', but this is unhelpful, says Dr Neil Stanley. In our conversations this straight talking expert points out the if you are someone whose sleep could be improved, then "the solution is in your hands".
In his refreshingly direct style, Dr Stanley demystifies sleeplessness and talks about the contributing factors that tend to raise our anxiety levels when we find we can't sleep.
Though the statistics on insomnia make alarming reading, the good news is that he defines the three essentials for good sleep, and says, though you may not realise it, that the answer to the problem "is in your hands".
podcast #sleepwell #insomnia #getabetterhandleonlife #selfhelp
Links:
Dr Neil Stanley: Independent sleep Expert: http://www.thesleepconsultancy.com
Find Barry Winbolt at: https://linktr.ee/barrywinbolt
Livemore app: https://livemore.app
WHO Sleep Report: Sleep Problems: An Emerging Global Epidemic?
I regularly get questions like "How do I find my purpose?". I'm basing this episode on some of the replies I've sent out.
Finding your purpose means discerning a point at which your strengths, talents, interests (or beliefs) come together, to indicate a direction and/or course of action in your life. And that just the start.
Personally, I'm not sure that it's a good use of one's time to be asking such a question. After all, philosophers and others have been asking this question for millennia. Maybe its one of those questions where the value is in the asking, not in any answer you might stumble across.
Still, I do have sympathy for those seeking to find their purpose, and I have something useful to say about it (I think). In this episode I provide two key questions to ask yourself to help you on your journey, and much more besides.
There's plenty to get you thinking, so if you are on a quest to find your purpose, drop in and join me!
findmypurpose #purpose #inspiration #motivation
Links to all my platforms
For years I struggled to create my online persona. Influenced by what I was seeing and hearing online – there are many slick, smiley, positive and upbeat presenters out there – I struggled to make the transition from live presenting to a live audience, to presenting myself in the virtual world. I thought I'd have to be like the great presenters I was seeing, but it doesn't come naturally to me to be so upbeat.
I can't be something I am not, and as I discovered while recording this episode, it's about being authentic. I needed to find my natural persona. Unfortunately, I have a craggy face, and a downbeat voice that tends towards a monotone. On the plus side, I'm an optimist, I love what I do, and I have loads to share.
I've learned a lot about how to present myself online, and this episode explains something of that journey, and why you will never hear me sounding relentlessly upbeat.
Follow me
I have an upcoming free webinar Be More Confident Even When You Don't Feel Like It... and you'll find more on my blog at www.barrywinbolt.com?
You'll also find me on Instagram, Linkedin. and on my blog at www.barrywinbolt.com
Follow me there!
Listen to the episode How to Think Like an Optimist
optimism #positivity #authentic #presentationskills
Mental wellbeing doesn't come about by accident, and the world we have created can easily threaten the balance we rely on to stay mentally resilient and healthy.
What we think of as mental wellbeing is different for each of us. But people with positive mental health generally do a number of things that give them a sense of wellbeing and protect their psychological and emotional health.
If you seriously want to protect your mental health, the first positive step is to move it up your agenda. In this episode, I talk about seven factors that contribute to mental wellbeing that you can use to help you look after yourself and bolster your mental wellbeing.
Links
I also mention my upcoming free webinar Be More Confident Even When You Don't Feel Like It., and my blog at www.barrywinbolt.com.
Follow me here: You'll also find me on Instagram and Linkedin.
Emile Esfahani Smith on having meaning in life: There's More to Life than Happiness
mentalhealth #selfcare #anxiety #wellness #wellbeing #barrywinbolt
As today's guest, Rick Gough, says, at work it's great to be able to say "Yes". You'll be seen in a positive light for your willingness and 'can-do attitude, and possibly even improve your career prospects. And it's nice to please others. But, as Rick says, it comes at a cost. There's a time to say "No"; it can be empowering, and "good for everybody". In this episode we discuss the whys and wherefores of politely refusing rather than just agreeing. It's not that simple, of course, and it can be quite challenging. Depending on who's asking, it can be scary, so we cover that too. But in the long run (Rick has 27 years' experience as an employee, mentor and manager), it pays to be honest if you feel overworked, under-skilled, or for whatever reason, would rather not take on that extra task.
sayingno #quietquitting #workburnout
Contacts
Email Rick Gough
Email Barry Winbolt
Have you ever blames a communication breakdown with the explanation the someone "wasn't listening"? Most of us have, at some time.
Like it or not, at work and elsewhere you'll be judged on your communicaton skills. Thery influence not only how others perceive you, but also how much they like, respect, and trust you.
In order to communicate effectively you have to 'own' your message, and if that's so, the hard truth is that we can't blame the other person when we fail to get through to them!
If you want more from me:
Instagram - https://www.barrywinbolt.com/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrywinbolt/
Website - https://www.barrywinbolt.com
Daily blog posts - https://www.barrywinbolt.com/blog/
My podcast - https://barrywinbolt.podbean.com/
My courses and classes - http://barrywinbolt-online.com
You can access the notes for this episode here.
We are all used to the idea of stress; it is now a recognised fact of life in many jobs. But burnout is different, and more serious.
Burnout is a reaction to prolonged and unremitting stress. It results in physical, emotional and mental exhaustion. Typically, this is accompanied by feelings of cynicism, a loss of interest in the job, self-doubt and doubts about the value of your work, loss of confidence, and feelings of overwhelm and helplessness.
If you see the signs in yourself then it's time to take urgent action. If you don't, the risks to your health increase. The longer you leave it the harder it will be to restore your normal levels of vitality and motivation.
This episode explains what to do if you are noticing the signs in yourself, and how to avoid burnout in the future.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
We live in a wealthy technological age where we have all we need at our disposal. One of the costs of this is a steadily rising tide of demands and pressures which produce stress in us. There’s a lot to do and have, and it’s tempting to try and have it all!
For many people, this means that they are so busy so much of the time that they no longer have the space, nor the ability to focus on managing the stress that goes with their lifestyle. And, if you want to follow the wellbeing gurus’ advice, it just produces another list of things to fit into your busy schedule.
What if, instead of struggling to reduce the stress in our lives, we simply give up and accept it?
(This is the audio version of a webinar I presented some months back, so please excuse the references to 'video blog' and webinar).
ARISE – Start your day on a positive note then supercharge your day with this soothing, guided mindfulness exercise.
Over the years, I have built up a sizeable archive of resources. These are exercises, video and audio tracks that I've produced for a specific purpose, then filed and forgotten about.
This ARISE track is one of these. I produced it (I think) for my online course on Mindfulness, now I'm sharing it with you.
What are the pros and cons of working from home? As we have moved on from the enforced home working due to the Pandemic, more of us now have the freedom to choose to work in or away from the office.
In the old days many organisations resisted the idea of home working. That obstacle has now largely disappeared, and so has (mostly) the stigma that if you worked from home you were not quite as serious about your job as your office-based peers.
Rick has now chosen to be entirely home-based. He is a reflective guy and lately he has been keeping notes on his experiences, both for an against. His insightful comments lead us into a fascinating conversation.
See what you think, and let us know. Whether you work from home or not, let us know your thoughts. The workplace has shifted but have attitudes moved as well? Please share. You can email us at info@barrywinbolt.com.
Freelancer, solopreneur, or simply working from home? Working for yourself is great if you are cut out for it, and even if you're not you can still make a go of it if your start with your eyes open and the right mindset. Be ready for the hurdles and give yourself the advantage.
Starting a business can bring unexpected emotional stresses, but the pitfalls can be handled if you are ready for them. The personal challenges are something you can plan for, if you know what they are likely to be.
And while there's no denying the positive aspects of taking the high-road to the self-fulfilment that only being self-employed can bring, just like any other fable, there are two sides to the story of being your own boss.
Serial entrepreneur Barry Winbolt shares ideas on making the transition as painless as possible.
Also, check out:
The VIA Character Strengths Survey
www.barrywinbolt.com/blog
www.youtube.com/BarryWinbolt
In this episode, I'm sharing some ideas on what can loosely be called, Alternative Career Guidance. There's plenty of conventional career advice out there, most of it sensible and sound, but it all points one way.
Pretty well every week I get questions relating to choosing the 'right' path to a career, or tension about how to prepare. Underlying many of these questions is uncertainty and even pressure and stress. If this is you, then maybe some alternative viewpoints can help give you pause for thought.
Anyone can argue. There's no talent in fighting and there's no glory in 'winning' an argument, though you wouldn't know it from the evidence we see around us.
Given that arguments cause so much strife in relationships, if we could find a way of reducing them by even a small percentage, the savings to our societies would be unimaginable. But that's just a dream.
On the surface, it might seem that arguments are the biggest cause of relationship breakdown. They certainly contribute, but they are generally a harmful symptom, rather than the cause of breakdowns.
Download the episode notes here.
See my online course: How to Become a Great Listener.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Losing someone or something you love is one of the defining human experiences. Loss is universal and inevitable; we’ll all experience it in some way at some time. That doesn’t help much if you are grieving, but it does mean that we understand what helps. Though you may not agree right now, especially if your heart is still aching, it is also a growth experience; we come out the other end stronger and a little wiser.
If you are suffering in that way this episode will guide you through some useful and practical ideas to help ease the pain.
You can find an edited text version of this episode here. In the episode I also talk about Seven Ways to Change Your Thinking.
Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
I met a man recently who I'd been dying to talk to for quite a long time. I've been following his Just Say Hello project on Facebook, and I've had this idea floating around in my head for months. It's called, Ordinary People Who Do Extraordinary Things, and I thought this chap, Duncan, is definitely in that category.
Now that I've spoken to him, I realise I was wrong. This is no ordinary person, in fact, anything but.
This was a spontaneous recording made on his iPhone as we spoke. Listen now to how a former celebrity photographer spent a day with one of the most iconic figures in contemporary music, Lionel Ritchie. Told by Duncan Raban, a natural storyteller.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Most of us spend a lot of time working, and studies show that most of us don't enjoy it as much as we could. Have you ever really taken the time to stop and think about getting a job you really enjoy?
It's not just about money, organisational culture, sense of fulfilment, and even feeling valued all contribute to how happy you are at work.
If you do your job, pay the bills, and enjoy the evenings and weekends but deep down find yourself wanting more from your work, is that enough? Maybe you're ready for a career upgrade and to live the life you deserve?
Adele Leah is a career coach with an attitude that’s seen her place client after client in careers they love. In this engaging conversation she explains the practical steps to take if you want to find greater fulfilment in your job, and career happiness.
If you want to improve anything about your work and career, this episode is an invaluable starting point
Download Adele's workbook How to Gain Career Confidence and Clarity.
Here's a link to Livemore for you to download the app, where you'll find more from Adele, and the ever growing range of contributions from the other Livemore experts.
Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
I'm in conversation with Rick Gough. Rick came up with the brilliant idea he calls 'Declutter Your Work'. Not only is it a great idea, it is also timely as many of us will we hope soon be returning to some sort of work normality.
You may be familiar with Marie Kondo's decluttering method for the home. Rick Gough has taken her six principles and applied them to how he works.
As you'll hear, it has benefits that can go far beyond the work space – it reaches into our inner spaces and provides a metaphor for a tidier life.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
"Why?" is one of those questions. It has its place, to be sure, but most of us, most of the time, use it indiscriminately.
Asking why something happened, or why someone did this or that, for example, might be a fun way to pass the time of day, but answers to questions like these can be hard to find. Even then, they may not help in a practical way.
Asking what needs to happen, how to respond, or who can help fix something might be more sensible; answers will provide direction and momentum and can tell you what to do next.
“Why?” is speculative and if it provides answers at all they will be uncertain. Whereas questions preceded by who, where, what, how or when are on firmer ground, and they tend to indicate a course of action.
“Why?” may reveal a cause, so if you think you need to deal with the result of something (its effect), you’d best design your questions well and to understand – each time you ask one – what you hope it will do.
https://feed.podbean.com/barrywinbolt/feed.xml
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
I'm in conversation with Philip Carr-Gomm, author of around 20 books, and a psychologist and a druid. We mainly discuss tips for aspiring writers. Philip has some insightful and practical tips, plus I throw in a few of my own. Then there's his recent and first novel, The Prophecies, a story of love, obsession, and betrayal. The nice thing about a good conversation is that you'll never know where it can take you!
As promised, here's the link to Steven Pressfield's practical guide to creativity, The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles.
We use questions constantly, in our conversations with others and our conversations with ourselves. But we rarely think about how we structure them and, mostly, they go unnoticed. They are such a central part of how we think, act, and communicate that it would be hard to imagine how we could manage without questions.
Questions are powerful, to be sure, and in all sorts of ways, some unexpected. You might think of them as a grammatical construct designed to elicit information, but not all questions produce equal results. Some can even tie us up in knots, so they can be a powerful waste of time.
We travel through life guided by our questions, so it is a good idea to ask the ones that show us the direction we should be taking. Questions are an essential part of how we think and communicate. Without them, we would be neither able to think straight nor communicate effectively.
Further reading In this episode, I mention The Art of the Question by Marilee Goldberg, and my short read. Powerful Questions, on the LiveMore app.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Have you ever wanted to say sorry, but you've held back? Maybe you thought that the other person should say it first, that apologising would make you appear weak, or that the problem was in the past and now it's too late to say sorry?
The power of apology is often under-estimated. It's essential to resolve a conflict or ask forgiveness, yet apologising is often discouraged and in some cases even prohibited!
When you appreciate just how important apologising is and to want to do something about it, this can be a steep learning curve, but worth the effort.
Whether it concerns a recent event or something that happened between you in the past, apologising doesn't need to be a complicated or drawn-out process. As long as it is genuine, a sincere expression of regret is often the first step to better relations, rebuilding trust AND an end to any underlying sense of tension or guilt you may have been feeling.
Download the article which accompanies this episode here.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Most people, at some time, have felt unsure about themselves or doubted their abilities. Often this takes the form of 'lacking confidence' or being 'under-confident'. In some people, this can become a mantra which holds them back from realising their potential. At an even more basic level, feeling under-confident can mean weaker social ties and poorer prospects in relationships, career, even in Life itself.
We've been fed the idea that good self-esteem breeds confidence, but there's a fine line between belief in oneself and narcissism. How do you stay on the right side of that line?
Becoming more confident is not an intellectual exercise, it is about taking action. You have to push yourself a little to get past the doubts, fears and uncertainties that have been holding you back. But there's no point in denying them, they are there for a reason.
Confidence is built on success, so anything that you are capable of that made you feel good at the time can bolster your sense of self-worth. This inventory can also include your character strengths, so ask around; what do others appreciate in you?
Links – In this episode I mention:
The VIA Character Strengths Inventory
Does High Self-Esteem Cause Better Performance, Interpersonal Success, Happiness, or Healthier Lifestyles?
How to Boost Confidence with a Vision Board.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
I'm a psychologist, therapist and writer. I've built my career around helping people sort out the things that trouble them. Anything, from relationship problems, personal change, mental health issues, work-related problems... you name it.
You can find out more about the topics I cover on my blog at www.barrywinbolt.com.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Resilience refers to a person's ability to function well in the face of high demand, unwanted change, challenge, or adversity.
It is built of a set of characteristics that most people possess to some degree. We are naturally stronger in some of these traits than in others. This means that we can play to our strengths, and recognise and develop the characteristics which are under-developed or lacking. This is the process of developing personal resilience.
And you can learn how to do that. When you understand what these characteristics are, you can begin to foster attitudes and habits in yourself which will boost your resilience and reduce the impact of stressful events.
I'll tell you how – by doing a little each day – you can gradually become more emotionally robust and use your energies so that you flourish, rather than struggling with the things that hold so many people back when they face an unexpected challenge, crisis, or persistently high demand.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
There's a strong case for doing things with your hands. This may be on our minds more than usual at a time when many of us are finding we have so much time to fill. I explain why practical hobbies and pastimes are good for you, and why knitting is only one of many things I won't be doing during Lockdown, however long it lasts.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Working from home is a boon for many people. Hopefully, for those it suits, maybe their way of working can change forever.
But you have to approach it like a grown-up. Once the novelty has worn off, when, eventually, you are the only one left at home, what then? I love working from home, always have done, but over the years I've found some people really struggle with it.
So what about you? Are you loving it, hating it, or still adjusting. This episode has some tips to make the transition easier, and some advice about going easy on yourself. Transitions always take a little time.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Being alone doesn't mean being lonely, they are two different things. Just as we need social contact, we also require moments of peace and quiet. There is a powerful drive in the human mind to withdraw, reflect, and recharge our energies.
One way to think about this is that time to reflect and do nothing allows our inner self to do the housework, to tidy up loose ends and come to terms with things. This is essential for physical health as well and mental wellbeing.
This episode explains how to transform loneliness into time well spent which will act as a doorway into better times.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
You’ve heard the expression, you may even have used it. ‘Communication breakdown’ is a handy metaphor, but a metaphor is symbolic, which means it shouldn’t be taken literally.
Communication breakdown is a handy concept, but it can also be a cop-out. It’s a useful term in that it suggests an impasse, but if you take it literally it becomes an excuse to stop trying.
What 'communication breakdown' really means is missed opportunity to help a damaged relationship.
Whether you are directly involved in a dispute, or you are a professional conflict resolver helping others, this episode is packed with sound, practical advice to enable you to fix an impasse.
© Backing Track: Adventure, Chad Crouch, www.soundofpicture.com, licence CC BY-NC 4.0
Depending on where you live in the World you are either under lockdown, or it is imminent in your area. This measure has been inflicted on us to help protect our physical health and that of the community. But it might seem that our mental health and wellbeing could now be put at risk by forced confinement.
But it doesn't have to be. There are several steps you can take to keep yourself occupied, emotionally stable, and even on a positive track so that you flourish despite your curtailed freedom of movement.
We still have control
Of course, there are limitations to being stuck at home, and it feels as though something has been taken away. But there's a lot you can do to help keep a sense of control and so bolster your morale.
Fear of therapy is a very real phenomenon. It’s ironic that while it is seen as irresponsible not to seek help with a physical illness, there is a taboo against wanting to fix an ailment of the spirit (if ‘spirit’ turns you off, try ‘psyche’).
In a world so preoccupied with happiness, success, wellbeing and fulfilment, there is an equal and opposite tension the deflects people from the things that can help a person achieve them.
Is it worth seven minutes of your time to learn how to stop an argument? Like most people, I learned the hard way how NOT to do it. But then, 25 years as a professional conflict resolver has taught me a thing or two about how to stop an argument, now I'm sharing it with you.
We hear a lot of talk about optimism and it is often promoted as a sort of cure for personal and social ills. Despite the banter between optimists and pessimists, there are compelling reasons to consider optimism as a key factor in wellbeing. These go far beyond the usual, glib ‘glass half full’ ideas or the entreaties of the positive thinking movement.
There are now thousands of studies that attest to the value of optimism at all stages of our lives. From childhood to old age an optimistic outlook confers all sorts of advantages.
Even if you are a die-hard pessimist, you can learn to use optimistic habits of thinking when things are getting you down.
This episode explains some of the benefits of thinking optimistically, and how to train yourself into the habit.
This episode introduces your author, explains what drives the podcast, and outlines some of the topics covered.
Topics in the first 20 episodes include surviving lockdown. why we need solitude, resilience, handling difficult behaviour, the benefits of knitting and other pastimes, anxiety, conflict... more to be announced soon.
Other people’s difficult behaviour can affect us in all sorts of ways. If we are fortunate, it will simply irritate us, but when it is extreme it can cause more serious problems.
This is the second and final part of the concise audio-version of my book of the same name. Using studio role-plays it shows you how to achieve more productive outcomes in a whole range of relationships. It will help you successfully settle those difficult interactions – at work or at home – that just won’t resolve themselves.
You'll also be given the opportunity to understand how to prepare yourself so that you are more effective more often in your relationships.
This episode covers:
The Complainer
The Silent Type
The Congenial
The Expert.
We all come across them. People who either won't or can't change the ways they behave towards us. It might be outright hostility and boorishness, across the spectrum to those who appear to agree with us, only to go off and do their own thing.
Confronting them doesn't work (as if you dared), and ignoring their behaviour only serves to reinforce it. This episode will give you plenty of ideas on how to respond so that difficult behaviour no longer obstructs or troubles you.
Using studio actors to demonstrate failed 'how-not-to' tactics followed by the successful 'how-to' scenarios, the two 30-minute episodes (part 2 next week) will empower you to take control in any situation where someone else's behaviour is getting you down.
This episode explains how to deal with:
The Steamroller
The Guerilla
The Grouser
The Shadow.