Confronting Self-Deception for Personal Growth
Episode #318
Hello Friends,
In this episode, I explore the idea that we often lie to ourselves about why we act in certain toxic ways. I discuss how we attribute our emotions and reactions to external circumstances, when in reality, they are a result of our own choices.
I also get into the importance of accepting the tough realities of life and not using external factors as excuses for our behaviour. Taking responsibility for our emotions and responses and striving for eudaimonia, or optimal flourishing, is absolutely crucial to the Stoic life, though is rooted in difficulty.
I hope this episode provides some wisdom,
Brandon
The audio version of this episode is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and wherever else you listen to your podcasts.
Takeaways
We often lie to ourselves about why we act in certain toxic ways.
Our emotions and reactions are a result of our own choices, not external circumstances.
Accepting the tough realities of life and not using external factors as excuses is crucial.
Taking responsibility for our emotions and responses is key to optimal flourishing.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:27 Lying to Ourselves About Our Actions
05:55 Why We Lie to Ourselves
08:57 The Tension Between Life and Death
10:34 The Appropriate Response to Life's Challenges
12:54 Finding Meaning in Both Good and Bad Times
14:22 Taking Responsibility for Our Emotions
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Stay Connected
Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
Brandon is also a writer for THE STOIC, the official journal of The Stoic Gym.