Just like how physical flexibility is the amount of stretch in our muscles, the ability they have to bend without breaking, psychological flexibility is the same quality in our minds. It helps us look at situations in new lights, be open to our emotions, let go of old versions of ourselves, and step into new ways of being.
Forrest and Dr. Rick both identify as “reformed rigid people,” and in this episode of the Being Well Podcast, they explore how to become more psychologically flexible.
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Key Topics:
0:00: Introduction
1:35: Choice, and the tradeoff between flexibility and speed
2:55: Rigidity, agency, and flexibility in relationship
7:50: Behavioral vs. psychological choices
10:30: The dock and the river, and self-protection
15:40: Inflexibility as a means to an end
17:30 Tools to inquire into your rigidities
20:50: When others’ behavior isn’t about you
22:25: A different perspective on distress tolerance
23:20: Assumptions and limiting beliefs
27:35: Willingness to change, and comfort in feeling change
34:10: Releasing attachment to your ‘place’
39:50: Understanding the function of your rigidity
41:35: Oveidentification with goals and accomplishments
44:40: Stepping into the river
45:20: Recap
