Added: Aug 25, 2023
In this podcast episode titled "The Science Of Building Unstoppable Confidence," Dr. Steve Peters discusses the concept of the "chimp paradox" and how understanding and managing our chimp brain can lead to building unstoppable confidence. He explains that the chimp brain represents our emotional and impulsive side, while the human brain represents our rational and logical side. Dr. Peters emphasizes that the chimp brain is not inherently bad but needs to be understood and managed effectively.Dr. Peters begins by explaining his background as a psychiatrist and how he developed the concept of the chimp paradox through his observations in therapy sessions. He delves into the neuroscience behind the chimp paradox, highlighting the automatic circuitry in the brain that operates outside of our control. The importance of understanding the chimp system is emphasized, as it often overrides our rational thinking. Dr. Peters uses the example of eating healthy to illustrate how the chimp system can lead to impulsive decisions and instant gratification, even when we have the intention to make healthier choices. He further explains that the chimp system is similar in humans and chimpanzees, while the human system is based on rationality and logic. However, he emphasizes that the chimp system is not inherently bad and can be our best friend if we learn to manage it effectively. By recognizing the difference between ourselves and the chimp system, we can work together as a team and make better decisions. Dr. Peters discusses his work with different individuals, including athletes like Chris Hoy and Ronnie O'Sullivan, as well as patients with emotional disturbances. He explains that the approach to working with these individuals is similar, as both involve understanding and managing the chimp system. He highlights the importance of recognizing triggers and learning to manage the chimp's impulses. The conversation then shifts to the topic of self-esteem and how it can be affected by the conflict between the chimp and human systems. Dr. Peters explains that self-esteem can be degraded when we attribute our actions to the chimp system rather than recognizing our own values and beliefs. He emphasizes the importance of understanding that we are separate from the chimp system and that managing it effectively is the key to maintaining self-esteem. Dr. Peters introduces the concept of "ghost emotions," which are learned behaviors that don't belong in the present moment. He explains that these emotions can be desensitized or changed through a process of recognizing and managing them. He also distinguishes between ghost emotions and emotional scars, which require a different approach and may need to be managed rather than resolved. The conversation then turns to the topic of stabilizers of the mind, which are strategies that help maintain emotional stability. Dr. Peters explains that stabilizers can include gaining perspective, broadening time horizons, and recognizing the difference between the chimp and human systems. He emphasizes the importance of programming the computer system, which is the part of the brain that provides advice and guidance to the chimp system. Finally, Dr. Peters discusses values, beliefs, and drives. He explains that drives are innate and compelling emotions that guide our behavior, while beliefs are learned and can influence our actions. Values, on the other hand, are moral beliefs that guide our behavior and provide a sense of peace of mind. He emphasizes the importance of knowing and living by our values, as they can provide a sense of stability and self-respect. Overall, Dr. Peters provides valuable insights into the science of building unstoppable confidence by understanding and managing the chimp system, recognizing the difference between ourselves and our emotions, and living by our values. He offers practical strategies for maintaining emotional stability and achieving peace of mind.
