11. Reset The Habit Of Falling Into Old Patterns. You're Done Spiraling

The podcast explores the human tendency to revert to familiar behaviors when attempting to adopt a new mindset, explaining the psychological reasons behind this phenomenon and offering insights into how one can navigate this process with self-compassion and strategic reflection.

People seek comfort in familiar behaviors, even if they know those behaviors are unhealthy or unproductive.

The speakers on the podcast underscore that falling back into old patterns is a common method for individuals to find solace. When attempting to embrace a new mindset or lifestyle, the prospect of entering unknown territory can be daunting. This unfamiliarity can make even the most confident individuals feel unstable, which may result in a retreat to old, predictable patterns as a way to cope with the discomfort.

When trying to adopt a new mindset or lifestyle, the unknown can feel unstable and uncomfortable, causing people to revert to old, predictable patterns as a coping mechanism.

Leo Skepi explains that humans naturally crave predictability and stability. Amidst the uncertainty that comes with change, leaning back into old behaviors provides a sense of security and comfort that the new and untested changes lack. Such reversion isn't about self-sabotage; it's an instinctive search for stability.

Falling back into old patterns is not self-sabotage, but rather a natural response to the anxiety and insecurity of change.

The speakers illuminate that reverting to former behaviors shouldn't be viewed as self-sabotage nor a fear of success. Instead, it is a natural and human response driven by a desire to alleviate discomfort associated with stepping into a new, less familiar identity. This return to comfort-seeking behaviors can happen particularly when one feels vulnerable or in need of immediate relief from the anxiety that accompanies new experiences.

Attempting a new mindset or identity can create a perceived disconnect between one's current and desired self, leading to feelings of disappointment and self-doubt.

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Leo Skepi guides listeners through identifying and resisting tendencies that may lead to self-sabotage, emphasizing the importance of maintaining control and adhering to personal standards in difficult times.

"Spiraling" and catastrophizing are unproductive thought patterns that should be consciously avoided.

Telling yourself you're "spiraling" gives you an excuse to lose control and revert to old behaviors, rather than staying present and making constructive choices.

Skepi urges listeners to avoid using the term "I'm spiralling" as it can be an excuse to surrender to negative emotions or behaviors, perpetuating a lack of control. He discusses "spiraling" as an unhelpful mindset triggered by setbacks, which can subconsciously fuel negative thoughts and the belief in one's inability to maintain new, positive mindsets or succeed. Instead, focusing on moving forward is crucial.

Dropping standards or compromising on personal boundaries is a common self-sabotaging behavior that must be resisted.

It's crucial to maintain the new standards and expectations you've set for yourself, even in the face of discomfort or temptation.

Skepi warns against the temptation to lower personal standards, especially in the wake of negative emotions such as loneliness or sadness. He underscores the importance of holding on to the new standards set for oneself, even when it's uncomfortable, rather than slipping back into old patterns. He also points out that when faced with the test of old habits calling, it's essential to stand firm and not slack off by making exc ...

When setbacks and slip-ups occur, it's vital to have strategies to redirect your path and learn from past mistakes. Leo Skepi and other speakers dive into practical methods to prevent temporary obstacles from halting progress and using them as learning experiences.

Unexpected obstacles and setbacks are inevitable, but they don't have to derail your progress entirely.

Skepi advises that when unexpected events and feelings cause disruptions, it's essential to view these as minor deviations, not complete derailments. He shares his experience of managing a series of disruptions, like deliveries and business calls, without allowing them to unravel the entire day's plans or shift focus away from priorities.

When your day or routine is disrupted, refocus your attention on your core priorities and non-negotiable tasks, rather than spiraling.

Skepi recommends maintaining two to-do lists: one for an ideal day and another outlining non-negotiable tasks to accommodate disruptions. This approach maintains momentum despite unforeseen circumstances. He insists that flexibility within one's routine and priorities is a buffer against unpredictability.

Each time you fall back into an old pattern, it's an opportunity to identify your specific weak points and develop better coping mechanisms.

After recognizing he succumbed to undesirable behaviors, Skepi made a conscious choice to stop the downward spiral and redirect his focus, suggesting reflection and strategy as avenues to overcome setbacks. Observing moments of disappointment is crucial in understanding the need for action changes to avoid future missteps.

Maintaining a list of your personal vulnerabilities and pre-planned strategies for addressing them can help you stay on track.

Recognizing weak points and triggers can form a personal inventory that aids in boundary setting during vulnerable moments. For example, implementing drink limits or safeguarding your phone from impulsive contacts when intoxicated are practical strategies suggested by Skepi.

Anger, frustration, and other "negative" emotions aren't inherently bad - they can be powerful tools when channeled productively.

Skepi discusses his journey with anger, evolving from a defensive response to constructing boundaries and responses conducive to his goals. Instead of lashing out in anger, he now waits to respond to contentious situations with clarity and calm, using his emotions to protect his priorities constructively.

Recognizing the value of these emotions and learning to use them to protect your boundaries and priorities, rather than lash out, is an important skill.

The speaker indicates that typically demonized emotion ...