Strengthening Your Inner Resilience with Alex Lickerman
Neither wolf wins permanently, the battle always goes on.
Ever wondered how to build a mind that can weather any storm? In this episode of 'The One You Feed', host Eric Zimmer sits down with Alex Lickerman, a physician and seasoned practitioner of secular Buddhism. Alex, who has dedicated years to understanding the science behind resilience, shares his journey and insights on constructing an indestructible self. The conversation kicks off with the famous parable of the two wolves, illustrating the ongoing battle between our positive and negative traits.
Alex dives into how our inner state profoundly impacts our ability to cope with adversity, emphasizing that growth from challenges isn’t automatic—it requires a conscious effort. He discusses the importance of accepting unpleasant feelings and how avoiding pain often exacerbates it. With wisdom drawn from Nichiren Buddhism, Alex explains how maintaining a positive outlook and finding value in obstacles can fortify our mental resilience.
He highlights the difference between optimistic and pessimistic thinking styles and offers practical tips on fostering a more empowering mindset. For anyone grappling with life's hurdles, this episode offers a treasure trove of strategies to help you stay motivated, focused, and determined, no matter what comes your way.