I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life, exacerbated by an emotionally abusive marriage, then three years of court battles with my ex over our daughter (I’m writing a memoir about all that). I wouldn’t call it severe or debilitating, but it’s bad enough. Just recently I started to implement a more “Jocko” approach (incidentally, I went to elementary and Junior High with him!) by telling myself “You are strong, you can get through this.” Which has helped pretty well with not going into shutdown/collapse. I think both the tough love and the self compassion are needed at different points. It’s a balance I’m always feeling around to find.
Wonderful essay. Thx for sharing your experience. So sorry about the bone break. I love the juxtaposition of the healing bone and mental health.
Jocko! Sounds interesting. Congrats to your nephew!
When my kids were little we helped them label their feelings. Once they knew their feelings were recognized they felt better and moved on. From what I understand parents today give their kid a distraction instead. If they’re upset about not having cake you’re supposed to do a 180, change the subject or take them outside. To me this feels like the parent is ignoring the kids’ feeling. But then again I’m not the expert. 🤷♀️
Meanwhile my kids grew to be caring, giving, thoughtful young adults. 🙏
Thanks for this! I am just 8 days past wearing a boot and cast and staying off a broken foot. It had been 10 weeks off my gift. So I can relate to this. It helps you reflect but it’s a long time to be physically passive.
I had a period of time as well when I was really into Jocko and his ideas. I still think some of his ideas are worth looking at, but as with anything balance is best. There's a time for Jocko attitudes and a time for Brene's attitudes 😊
I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life, exacerbated by an emotionally abusive marriage, then three years of court battles with my ex over our daughter (I’m writing a memoir about all that). I wouldn’t call it severe or debilitating, but it’s bad enough. Just recently I started to implement a more “Jocko” approach (incidentally, I went to elementary and Junior High with him!) by telling myself “You are strong, you can get through this.” Which has helped pretty well with not going into shutdown/collapse. I think both the tough love and the self compassion are needed at different points. It’s a balance I’m always feeling around to find.
Thanks for this thought provoking essay!
Wonderful essay. Thx for sharing your experience. So sorry about the bone break. I love the juxtaposition of the healing bone and mental health.
Jocko! Sounds interesting. Congrats to your nephew!
When my kids were little we helped them label their feelings. Once they knew their feelings were recognized they felt better and moved on. From what I understand parents today give their kid a distraction instead. If they’re upset about not having cake you’re supposed to do a 180, change the subject or take them outside. To me this feels like the parent is ignoring the kids’ feeling. But then again I’m not the expert. 🤷♀️
Meanwhile my kids grew to be caring, giving, thoughtful young adults. 🙏
So powerfully and well written. Thank you for sharing these invaluable insights.
Thanks for this! I am just 8 days past wearing a boot and cast and staying off a broken foot. It had been 10 weeks off my gift. So I can relate to this. It helps you reflect but it’s a long time to be physically passive.
I had a period of time as well when I was really into Jocko and his ideas. I still think some of his ideas are worth looking at, but as with anything balance is best. There's a time for Jocko attitudes and a time for Brene's attitudes 😊
Sometimes our mental toughness overpowers our physical capabilities! I enjoyed this and will check out Jocko Willink's podcast!