In this episode of the Being Well Podcast, Forrest and Dr. Rick focus on one of life’s most challenging but essential skills – letting go. Whether you’re trying to break free from repetitive thoughts, move on from a relationship, or change an old pattern of behavior, this episode will help you learn how to release what no longer serves you.
They start by exploring why letting go is so difficult, the nature of the brain and how it gets in our way, and how to start opening up to a new way of being. They then discuss different practical approaches to letting go, how to work with the feeling of “giving up,” and staying on your own side when facing resistance.
Rumination Course: Rick’s 5-week online course Breaking Out of Rumination starts on March 29th. Rumination is a big pain point for many people, and this course will help you learn how to break repetitive patterns of thought. Learn more at RickHanson.com/ruminating, and use coupon code BeingWell25 to receive a 25% discount.
Key Topics:
- 0:00: Introduction
- 3:05: Rumination and the comfort of familiarity
- 7:00: Allowing for shifts in identity
- 14:25: Practical Example: How to Let Go
- 29:40: Being on your own side when you feel resistance from others
- 34:45: Letting go vs. giving up, and orienting toward our own fulfillment
- 43:35: The destabilization phase, and learning about yourself
- 51:05: Recap
Forrest is now writing on Substack, check out his work there.
