Chris Niebauer: Embracing the Balance Between Positive and Negative Emotions
When you get in a bad mood, go for it, get into it. Own your bad mood, self-pity, jealousy, fear. We see what we don't have instead of what we do.
Ever wondered if it's okay to have a bad day? Chris Niebauer, cognitive psychologist and author of 'The Neurotic's Guide to Avoiding Enlightenment', joins Eric Zimmer on 'The One You Feed' to explore this very idea. With a Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuropsychology, Chris dives into the fascinating world of left-right brain differences and how they shape our sense of self and beliefs.
But it’s not just academic jargon; Chris brings practical insights that can help you navigate everyday emotional ups and downs. In this episode, Chris sheds light on cognitive dissonance and confirmation bias, explaining why our thoughts and behaviors sometimes clash and how we strive to align them. He also delves into the mechanics of thoughts, the power of gratitude, and the intriguing 'law of opposition'. According to Chris, accepting a bad mood can actually help it dissipate faster.
He shares his personal journey with anxiety, revealing how embracing his anxious feelings rather than fighting them led to better mental health. The conversation isn't just about feeding the 'good wolf' inside us—representing kindness and love—but also understanding and occasionally feeding the 'bad wolf', which embodies fear and negativity. Chris argues that it's not about choosing one over the other but finding a balance that works for you.
He offers practical tips on how to feed both wolves in a way that promotes overall well-being. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone grappling with their emotions. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trying to stay positive, or just curious about how your brain works, Chris's insights are both enlightening and relatable. Tune in for an engaging chat that might just change the way you view your own emotional landscape.