Deeper Insights: Resources to Help You Quit Living in the Past
Throughout July 2019, DRIVEN has been glancing at the past, and uncovering how Shame, Guilt, Regret and Blame keep us held captive there. We published four articles exploring the challenges faced by those of us who are trapped in the past by these wasted emotions, offered examples and solutions so motivated professionals like you can break down the barriers and achieve better equilibrium in the workplace. For instance, in my recent article On The Road To Release: How To End The Blame Game, I reiterated what Viktor Frankl reminded us about giving into our amygdala’s bad habits and spreading blame around: We have a choice of how to respond in every interaction! I also reminded the reader of what a wise friend once told me: When one finger points out, four fingers point back at yourself. I hope you’ve discovered these articles and have re-leased your life and career by examining your own relationship to the trials and traumas of your past.
As with each of DRIVEN’s topics, there are exceptional resources for further reading and listening. These include related DRIVEN articles and external resources like books, podcasts and video presentations. Here’s the July roundup of our favorite links related to overcoming the past, some of which will link you to additional resources therein. Explore them, and then reach out to us. We’d love to hear what resonates with you in these areas!
Books:
Dare to Lead by Brene Brown: We’ve referred to Brene’s work a few times during this month’s exploration, since she has her finger on the pulse of most modern workplace challenges as one of today’s leading change-makers. If you don't want to read the whole book (although we HIGHLY recommend this as a wise investment) read more about Shame and Vulnerability in Part One, Section Four of her book— a chapter aptly titled Shame and Empathy.
Getting Back to Happy by Marc & Angel Chernoff: Easy and uplifting to read, this whole book, especially Chapter 3, offers insight on re-leasing life. The Chernoff’s are on the same page as DRIVEN in acknowledging that WE create our future, no matter how dark our past may seem. The book also reinforces the fact that life is tough for everyone. We all have our struggles; you are not alone!
The Top Five Regrets of The Dying by Bronnie Ware: This book is a unique opportunity for us to learn from other people’s experiences, particularly folks in the position of having most of their lies behind them. The theme that hits home here is, it’s never too late to live a more intentional life. Employing the growth mindset is central to this paradigm.
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron: In the first chapter of this book alone, the reader is challenged to look back at their demons of the past, called “historic monsters”. It demonstrates that once you name these monsters, all their power dissolves. Then you can look to the future and discover your inner creativity.
Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda by Arthur Freeman & Rose DeWolf: “Unblock” your past and unlearn all of that woulda/coulda/shoulda thinking that informs your present with a healthy dose of Freeman & DeWolf’s cognitive insight. In understandable language, this book offers techniques and exercises that will get you there, fast!
Other Resources:
Brene Brown’s TED Talk about Shame: Here’s one that will in form and entertain at once. Brene Brown really nailed it with her previous talk on vulnerability, this powerful and humorous follow-up on shame is an indispensable supplement. Don’t miss out on this 20-minute commitment.
Self-Compassion.org: If you’d like to explore more about conquering your past shame and regrets through the lens of Self-Compassion, check out the website developed by one of the world’s leading experts on the subject: Kristin Neff.
If you enjoy what you’re reading and are considering living life more fully, schedule a complimentary consultative session with DRIVEN HERE.