E 181 Small Steps, Big Wins: (Conquering Your Fear of the New Without the Meltdown

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This podcast episode discusses the fear and anxiety that often arise when we want to try new things. Host Cynthia Coufal interviews Emily Drake, a guest expert who helps people overcome these challenges.

Emily Drake is the Owner and CEO of The Collective Academy, a leadership development firm that creates programs to help individuals cultivate sustainable leadership skills and organizations build thriving communities and workplace cultures. She is also the host of the Who’s Missing Podcast. In each episode, Emily’s guests dive into how and why they chose their unique paths – personal and professional – and what they learned along the way. She has a BA in English from Augustana College and an MA in Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. 

Key Points:

• Our brains often try to sabotage us with negativity when we consider new things. This negativity can manifest as self-doubt, fear of failure, and worries about what others will think.
• The first step is self-awareness. Understand your strengths and values, regardless of the environment you're in. Don't let labels or past experiences define you.
• Take small steps to build the skill of novelty. This could involve trying a new food, watching a different TV show, or even just walking a different route to school. These low-stakes experiences help you get comfortable with the unfamiliar.
• Connect with others who can support you. Surround yourself with positive and encouraging people who will celebrate your efforts and help you step outside your comfort zone.
• Practice regulating your emotions. Learn techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing to manage anxiety in the moment.
• Expand your circle and seek out diverse perspectives. This can help you learn new things and challenge your own biases.

Additional Notes:

• The episode mentions that traditional education often emphasizes areas of weakness rather than strengths. This can contribute to negative self-talk and hinder exploration.
• The importance of open communication between parents and teenagers is highlighted. Creating a safe space for dialogue can encourage teens to share their fears and seek support.
• The episode concludes with a call to action for both teens and adults: step outside your comfort zone, embrace novelty, and seek out connections with others who can support your growth.

https://www.thecollective-academy.com/
Instagram: @emdrake, @the_collective_academy, @whosmissingpodcast // 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilydrake/
Email Emily:
contact@thecollective-academy.com

Find my podcast
Email me: ccoufal@cynthiacoufalcoaching.com
Text me: 785-380-2064
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