In this podcast, which is episode two of a two-part series, Dr. Stein walks us through his list, How to Become Your Own Best Friend. This is one of our favorite essays from Dr. Stein which is saying a great deal given the depth and breadth of his wisdom.
In last week’s episode, we covered items focused on expanding our horizons to become both interesting and interested, making mistakes, self-compassion and advocating for ourselves and not overthinking things.
We continue in the vein of standing up for ourselves with do not explain, excuse or apologize because you believe someone else expects this. Dr. Stein walks us through this difficult but essential practice of being secure enough to stand our ground and also to say “no.”
One of my favorite phrases is from Roshi Joan Halifix – strong back, soft front. In that vein, we move to talk about Dr. Stein’s instruction that we allow love and kindness to emanate from our beings. This one is my personal favorites because I spent years surfing in my father’s wake of goodness. When we do the work to see others around us like the grocery clerks and people we pass by, and greet them warmly, we not only change the tenor in the air, but in ourselves as well.
We move on to discuss when we face disappointing and hard times. Dr. Stein explains that one way through is understanding that we’ll likely return to our set point after experiencing misfortune and unhappiness. Dr. Stein says, “overcoming hardship will require a great deal of strength and willpower but it’s known we will return to our set point.”
This is a great episode full of the warm and wise advice of Dr. Stein. He proves an excellent guide past the pitfalls and into the fullness of a wonderful life. We know you’ll love it!
And if you haven’t already, read Dr. Stein’s complete list including my personal favorite, #29 “Empty your being of all your power, imagination, and grit. Use it up.” Also go back and listen to the first episode of Being Your Own Best Friend.
On a programming note, we will only be producing one more episode in 2023 after this one so that we can take a break for the holidays.
<we’ve taken out the podcast player from this post because it wasn’t working in the WordPress reader. Sorry for any inconvenience but the link to Anchor below will take you right to it.>
Search (and subscribe!) for Sharing the Heart of the Matter on Apple, Amazon, Spotify or Pocket Casts OR Listen to on Anchor Episode 47: Being Your Own Best Friend With Dr. Gerald Stein – Part II
Transcript for Episode 47 of the podcast
Links for this Episode:
Episode 47: Being Your Own Best Friend With Dr. Gerald Stein – Part II on Anchor
Dr. Gerald Stein’s Blog: Dr. Gerald Stein
How to Become Your Own Best Friend by Dr. Gerald Stein
Other podcast episodes with Dr. Stein:
Episode 46: Being Your Own Best Friend With Dr. Gerald Stein – Part I
Episode 37: The Waiting Game with Dr. Gerald Stein
Episode 29: Accidental Philanthropists with Dr. Gerald Stein
Episode 20: The Art of the Interview with Dr. Gerald Stein
Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue
Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith
Sigh…such a wonderful conversation. I’m left wondering when Part III will appear. 😉
Dr. Stein…more please so we can podcast again and continue thinking about ways to be good to ourselves, best friend-style! 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, yes, yes!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks to both Wynne and Vicki for their own wit, wisdom, and kindness. And thank you, Vicki, for continuing to offer more air time.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Our pleasure! 😉
LikeLike
Such great episodes with you, Dr. Stein! Always a pleasure!
LikeLike
I enjoyed Dr. Stein’s easy going podcast about becoming your own best friend. When he discussed our distress when we misspeak and also when we’re too timid to speak up, I was like a nodding bobblehead doll. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh my goodness – me, too Nancy. One of Dr. Stein’s gifts – how relatable his stories, anecdotes and lessons are. Thank you for that. 😘
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes – I did that too, Nancy! Oh, those are hard (but necessary) lessons to learn!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh, I’m so excited to think there may be a Part III – more thought-provoking advice!😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh, Mary, you are such a great encourager!
LikeLiked by 1 person