How to Be an Adult

In this conversational episode, Kate and Luke discuss how to overcome procrastination, based on their personal experience, as well as professional work with hypnotherapy clients. Procrastination originates from the Latin word procrastinus, meaning ‘of tomorrow,’ highlighting the tendency to defer actions to a future time. Living with the knowledge of future consequences (e.g., dirty dishes, laundry) can motivate present action and set up a better tomorrow. Self-motivated and productive individuals maximize their available waking hours by prioritizing important tasks and letting go of non-essential ones. Completing tasks quickly, rather than carrying them as burdens, leads to a lighter and easier life, as avoiding tasks often requires more energy than doing them. Tasks are frequently perceived as more difficult than they actually are; engaging with them reveals they are often feasible and manageable. The belief that one can accomplish a task is crucial, echoing Henry Ford’s sentiment that ‘whether you believe you can or whether you believe you can’t, you’re right.’ We frame procrastination as a ‘software problem’ (thought processes) rather than a ‘hardware problem’ (fixed wiring), suggesting it can be overcome by upgrading thinking patterns. Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps (chunking) is essential for completing them, similar to running a marathon one step at a time. The principle ‘done is better than perfect’ encourages action and progress over striving for unattainable perfection. Audacity is the key differentiator between those who ‘dare to disturb the universe’ and take action, and those who do not. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 0:49 – What is procrastination? 2:23 – How to make the most out of each day 6:32 – Luke’s experience with procrastination 8:47 – Is procrastination a fixed mindset, or can it change? 10:58 – Best practices for procrastination 15:20 – How perfectionism fuels procrastination 19:38 – Learn to be your own greatest ally 23:06 – Turn best practices into action 25:34 – Becoming a doer, not a dreamer 27:29 – Dare to disturb the universe Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Overcome Procrastination (Ep. 31, with Kate Voss) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

If you’ve accomplished enough with your life, and you’re very self-critical at the same time, you will probably feel at some point that you’re an impostor or a fraud. This is a pretty good sign that you aren’t. In today’s episode, we’ll explore why, and what to do about that awful feeling: Imposter syndrome is common among intelligent, high-achieving individuals who feel like frauds despite their accomplishments. This feeling often arises because our self-concept, formed in childhood, may not be updated to reflect our current adult selves and capabilities. Adult life involves operating at the “edge of knowledge,” where problems lack definitive answers and require judgment, unlike the “known problems” of earlier education. Perfection is achievable in simple tasks but not in complex adult endeavors; striving for “good enough” and conforming to best practices is often more appropriate. Comparing oneself to others, especially based on curated online personas, is misleading, as everyone has inner complexities and limitations. Developing self-validation is crucial, meaning trusting one’s own educated mind and experienced judgment rather than solely seeking external approval. Recognizing the entire journey of learning and development up to the present moment builds confidence and validates current accomplishments. Mistakes are a natural part of operating at the edge of knowledge and expanding capabilities, not an indication of being a fraud. Peers operating at the same “edge of knowledge” often possess intellectual humility and are unlikely to judge others for not knowing everything. Addressing impostor syndrome involves understanding its origins, recognizing peers are in similar situations, acknowledging one’s journey, and practicing self-validation and realistic standards. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 1:01 – Who gets impostor syndrome? 3:49 – “Edge of knowledge” problems 9:33 – You are the real deal 10:58 – Complex situations do not have neat answers 13:53 – Update your self-concept 16:30 – #1: Understand the situation 19:34 – #2: Recognize the journey that got you here 22:33 – #3: Stop comparing yourself to others 24:48 – #4: Become self-validating 26:38 – #5: Stop being a perfectionist 29:48 – #6: Making a mistake doesn’t make you a fraud 31:49 – Summary Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Overcome Impostor Syndrome (Ep. 30) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

On November 5, 2025, the tranquility of our hypnosis office was broken by a clash between two student groups, Students Supporting Israel and Students for Justice in Palestine, from Toronto Metropolitan University. After a window was broken and the protesters were forced out, five arrests were made, and the police chief says that more charges are coming. If you’ve seen the videos posted on social media, you might have seen our founder Luke Chao surveying the damage and making efforts to deescalate the situation. In this special episode of How to Be an Adult, Luke reflects on what we can learn about civil disobedience and how to protest effectively. This is not legal advice: it’s practical advice for what to think inside your head. 00:00 – The protest on November 5 01:39 – The purpose of civil disobedience 04:35 – #1: Remember the human 05:42 – #2: When fighting monsters, do not become one yourself 07:15 – #3: Do not reverse victim and perpetrator 08:04 – #4: Narrative is not everything 08:51 – #5: Avoid getting swept up in mobs 09:37 – #6: Be Socratic 10:23 – #7: Pick your battles 11:19 – Closing remarks Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Principles for Effective Protest: A Special Episode Following the SSI-SJP Clash Near TMU (Ep. 29) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Chances are, there isn’t a revolution coming, and you’re going to be living in a capitalist society for the rest of your life. Now what? In this solo episode, Luke shares eight principles for adapting to (indeed, thriving in) the economic system that our listeners live in: Capitalism is a system where private property and corporations own the means of production, and winning at it means accumulating enough capital to generate income without working for wages. To win at capitalism, you need to become a member of the capital-owning class by investing in assets like stocks, bonds, or real estate. It’s important to be a master of capital, not its slave, by using capital as a tool rather than letting it control your decisions. Cultivating an internal locus of control is crucial, as believing you are responsible for your circumstances empowers you to take action and accumulate capital. Optimism is essential for winning at capitalism, as it drives investors, entrepreneurs, and content creators to take risks and work hard for future rewards. Adopting a positive-sum mentality, where wealth creation benefits everyone, is more pragmatic and productive than a zero-sum mindset. Understanding supply and demand helps you position yourself uniquely in the market, allowing you to charge higher fees or wages. Living below your means and playing offense by increasing your income through strategic investments or career moves is key to accumulating capital. Respecting and admiring successful capitalists can help you learn from their strategies and avoid cognitive dissonance. Wealth amplifies your existing character traits, so it’s important to cultivate good values and principles before and during your journey to financial success. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Introduction 8:46 – Become a member of the capital-owning class 15:48 – Become a master of capital, not its slave 24:34 – Cultivate an internal locus of control 28:06 – Foster optimism 31:35 – Develop a positive-sum (win–win) mentality 39:31 – Understand supply and demand 45:07 – Play offence, not defence 50:18 – Find winners to admire Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post 8 Ways to Win at Capitalism (Ep. 28) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In this episode co-hosted by Luke Chao and Kate Voss, we discuss how we might maturely relate to time. It’s less about time management, and more a philosophy of how one might make the most out of your 16 waking hours in a day: Time management is crucial for adults to balance work, leisure, and personal growth, with each person having about 16 waking hours a day to allocate. Elon Musk’s time management strategies, such as scheduling in five-minute increments, highlight the importance of valuing each minute, though this level of granularity may not be practical for everyone. Time is a non-renewable resource that should be budgeted and spent wisely, similar to money, as it is scarce and valuable. Technology and social media can hijack attention and disrupt productivity, but individuals can reclaim control by using tools intentionally and turning off unnecessary notifications and other distractions. Setting long-term goals and breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks can help in effectively managing time and staying motivated. The perception of time changes with age, and recognizing its relentless forward movement can help in making better decisions about how to spend it. Rest and leisure are essential for well-being and should be intentionally scheduled, as they provide intrinsic value and prevent burnout. The hustle and grind culture often undervalues rest and leisure, but these activities are crucial for a balanced and fulfilling life. Children, retirees and the generationally wealthy offer valuable perspectives on the importance of play, rest, and non-work activities for overall happiness and well-being. Effective time management involves using simple tools like calendars and to-do lists, focusing on simplicity and practicality rather than aesthetics. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 3:07 – What does it mean to manage time? 3:46 – Every minute has priceless value 5:42 – We choose how to spend our time 12:12 – What do you do if you’re “bad at time”? 14:10 – Do you think time cares? 16:49 – Odds are, you’ll live a long time. 20:03 – Time feels faster as you get older. 21:10 – Not all time spent is well spent. 28:34 – You earn at work. You live after work. 31:04 – Write it down. Do it on time. 35:27 – Rest isn’t lazy. It’s maintenance. 38:12 – As a kid, play was scheduled. Now you have to schedule it. 43:20 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Think About Time (Ep. 27) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Most of our anxiety comes not from what actually happens, but from what we imagine might happen in an uncertain future. In this solo episode with Luke Chao, he speaks about how to face the future with clarity: The things you’re stressed about today will likely be handled by your future self with the maturity and experience of that age. Life’s uncertainties are like driving on a winding road; you don’t need to imagine threats, just trust your senses and handle what comes. Anxiety often focuses on hypothetical threats rather than the actual reality, which is usually safe and manageable. Throughout life, you’ve handled misfortunes without prior preparation, proving you can adapt to whatever comes. Mentally preparing for a long life (around 80 years) is practical and aligns with statistical averages. Focus on what you know (like your current capabilities) rather than trying to predict the unknown future. Use your imagination to visualize and create the future you want, rather than dwelling on potential negatives. As an adult, you control your environment and can create lasting good things in your life. Accept that the future is uncertain, but trust in your ability to handle whatever comes with maturity and intelligence. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Introduction 6:52 – What we know for certain 11:44 – But what if…? 18:57 – Proper use of the imagination 26:04 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Cope with Uncertainty (Ep. 26) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Kate is the newest member of our team at The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis, and in this episode, she and Luke discuss some of the hallmarks of a successful relationship. We offer suggestions for listeners at every stage in their relationship journey: Successful relationships begin with a positive relationship with oneself, characterized by self-love and self-respect. The “four C’s” of relationships—clarity, confidence, communication, and connection—are crucial for navigating both entering and maintaining relationships. Confidence plays a significant role in attracting partners. How one presents themselves non-verbally can influence the type of relationships they attract. Effective communication is essential for expressing needs and desires, which helps in forming genuine connections. Relationships should enhance both partners’ lives, with interdependence rather than codependency, where both individuals are whole and contribute equally. The concept of “positive sum” relationships suggests that partnerships should multiply love and support rather than create competition or imbalance. Individuals are encouraged to embrace their uniqueness and authenticity, avoiding the tendency to pedestalize others or compare themselves unfavorably. The importance of self-care—physically, mentally, and emotionally—is a prerequisite for being able to connect with others meaningfully. When evaluating a relationship’s future, ask whether would choose the partner again if starting fresh. Breakups can be an act of love when they allow both partners to find better compatibility. Ending a relationship does not diminish the love shared. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 2:16 – Big mistakes seen in a relationship? 2:30 – The 4 C’s in a relationship 7:28 – A cool thing about being self-loving 8:26 – What are relationships about 10:11 – Relationships and climbing mountains 11:35 – The egalitarian style 17:40 – Pedestalizing others 21:20 – Questions to ask yourself in a relationship 24:28 – How to be 100% yourself 28:15 – Scenarios and stages in a relationship 28:38 – Scenario #1: Have you never been on a date before? 33:40 – People in the dating world 37:00 – Finding your forever person is inevitable 41:15 – Scenario #2: How do you know? 46:30 – Is the grass greener? 47:45 – Complimentary or opposites 49:55 – Has the relationship run its course? 54:54 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post What Makes a Relationship Successful (Ep. 25) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

The questions we ask ourselves determine which thoughts subsequently enter our minds. If we ask ourselves about counterfactual scenarios, our mind floods with counterfactual scenarios. If we ask ourselves about reassuring truths, we find reassuring truths, almost as though we were typing a query into a search engine. This episode is about how to ask yourself the second type of question. Good questions can lead to productive thoughts, while bad questions can evoke unnecessary anxiety and confusion. The way we think is influenced by the questions we ask ourselves, which can shape our emotional and physical well-being. It’s essential to challenge the premises of our questions, as flawed assumptions can lead to unhelpful answers. Questions about others’ opinions or actions distract from our agency; instead, focus on self-directed questions using “shall” to emphasize personal responsibility. Using frameworks like the five W’s (who, what, when, where, why) and strategic versus tactical questions can guide effective self-inquiry. Intuition plays a crucial role in decision-making; allowing time for reflection can lead to more satisfying answers than immediate rational thought. Individuals should prioritize asking themselves questions about their own values and priorities rather than seeking validation from others. Recognizing one’s agency in decision-making can reduce anxiety and empower individuals to shape their futures. The ultimate goal of questioning is to approach truth and broaden perspectives, leading to actionable insights and improved self-awareness. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Intro 0:55 – Why good questions matter 8:26 – “What if” and “why” questions 13:36 – The purpose of a question 19:25 – The 5 W’s and H 24:42 – Let questions sit Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Ask Yourself Great Questions (Ep. 24) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

This timely episode tackles an important topic that I’ve tried a few times to speak about. For the half of the population who are male, how are we supposed to “be a man”? In this episode 23, I make an attempt to answer this question using the same analytical lens through which I’ve dissected how we are all supposed to “be an adult.” The concept of masculinity is evolving, and traditional definitions centered around being a provider, protector, and procreator are becoming outdated as women can now fulfill these roles independently. The real battle is against oneself rather than against women or other men. Discussions around toxic masculinity does not provide constructive role models for young men to emulate. Role models for healthy masculinity are scarce, with examples like Mufasa from “The Lion King” and Keanu Reeves being cited for their positive traits and authenticity. Societal norms around gender are largely socially constructed, and men can redefine masculinity in ways that break away from outdated conventions. Be aware of your inherent power and strength, using it to uplift and support others rather than to intimidate or harm. Being a good man is synonymous with being a good person, regardless of gender. Identify role models who exhibit desirable qualities and strive to emulate them in daily life. Everyone has a unique path to happiness and success, and it’s essential for individuals to recognize their potential for growth and improvement over time. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 00:51 – How to “be a man” 02:13 – The inspiration behind the episode 05:21 – Healthy masculinity 07:52 – Men and women are apples and oranges 11:00 – The Tate hate 13:59 – Who are our male role models? 20:55 – The obligations of a man 28:52 – Do we need to atone for other men? 31:52 – Finding strength on your path to success 35:32 – A good man is a good person 41:10 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to “Be a Man” (Ep. 23) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

We all know that we should forgive ourselves for our mistakes, but until somebody teaches you how, the path to redemption isn’t always obvious. In this episode, I’m going to break down what it means when you’re feeling guilty or ashamed, and what to do about it.: Remorse serves to reflect and improve oneself to avoid repeating past mistakes. Guilt arises from specific wrongful actions, while shame is a deeper feeling of being a bad person. When you recognize your position in your redemption arc, you can make amends and grow as a person. Continuous self-reflection and learning from past actions are essential for personal development and need not lead to perpetual guilt or shame. Unlike manufactured objects that degrade over time, humans grow and evolve throughout life, and past mistakes do not define one’s current worth. Individuals should assess their behaviors with kindness and understanding, similar to how a good parent or teacher would guide a child, rather than harshly criticizing themselves. Many people hold themselves to harsher standards than they would apply to friends; recognizing this double standard can foster self-compassion. Everyone deserves moments of joy and forgiveness, regardless of past transgressions, and self-compassion is integral to healing. Instead of asking self-deprecating questions, individuals should focus on what kind of person they want to be and the values they wish to uphold moving forward. 0:00 – Intro 0:54 – The difference between guilt and shame 1:43 – Guilt means a good thing 2:21 – Life is a redemption arc 3:42 – Everyone has regrets 5:35 – The utility of remorse 6:07 – What it means to be a lifelong learner 7:16 – Humans get better with time, not worse 9:33 – How to learn from your mistakes 11:25 – When to stop of punishing yourself 13:25 – Everyone deserves a second chance (to know better next time) 16:27 – Treat yourself as a friend 18:21 – Who do you want to be tomorrow? 20:12 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Forgive Yourself (Ep. 22) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

This episode is for all the recovering people-pleasers out there. If you feel like it’s hard to say “no” in an unfair situation, I’m going to give you a moral framework that lets you to speak your mind and simultaneously feel like the hero in the story of your life… at the same time! We start by recognizing the false morality instilled during childhood that suggests being agreeable equates to being a good person. We should prioritize authentic, truthful communication over merely saying “yes” to please others, because this shift is essential for personal growth and emotional well-being. The ‘fawning’ response is a common trauma reaction that leads you to please others at the expense of their own feelings and beliefs. We encourage you to view yourself as an equal to others, regardless of hierarchical positions, because everyone has a right to voice their thoughts and feelings. Self-respect and self-love are crucial for establishing healthy boundaries and asserting your needs guilt-free. Neglecting your own morality inevitably leads to feelings of anger and resentment. Treating yourself as an equal can influence how others perceive and treat you, promoting a healthier social dynamic. Self-love and respect do not diminish others’ happiness; instead, they contribute to a collective increase in well-being, because emotions are positive-sum. Asserting yourself and saying “no” when necessary is a civilized and mature response that fosters healthier relationships and personal integrity. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 01:12 – “You’re only good if you say ‘yes,’ and bad if you say ‘no’” 02:57 – People-pleasing as a trauma response 04:12 – Neglecting your morality will lead to resentment 05:48 – The inequality of people-pleasing 09:38 – Your moral obligation to say ‘no’ 14:58 – You can still be a good person even when you’re rocking the boat 16:35 – Our heroes say ‘no’ all of the time 18:17 – We are all living in your world, too 23:29 – Ceasing to people-please doesn’t make you a jerk 29:26 – Put your own oxygen mask on first 30:53 – Why I don’t trust people-pleasers 33:32 – A wolf that does not defend itself is demoralized or sick 34:35 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Stop People-Pleasing (Ep. 21) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

We’ve recently heard of a trend of young people avoiding the news entirely to preserve their mental health. In our view, this is unnecessarily self-defeating, because it’s possible to be informed and happy at the same time. In this episode, we share how: It is possible to stay informed about world events while also prioritizing mental health, debunking the notion that one must choose between the two. Each person can make a positive impact in their community and the world, and benefits from focusing on their own contributions rather than feeling overwhelmed by global issues. Individuals should acknowledge and take credit for their positive actions, such as volunteering or voting, rather than blaming themselves for broader societal issues. Small individual actions can collectively lead to significant positive change, reinforcing the idea that every person’s efforts matter. Engaging with a variety of news sources and perspectives is crucial for a well-rounded understanding of events, as media often emphasizes sensational stories. Recognizing that media outlets may present biased representations of news helps individuals navigate the information landscape more effectively. People should be mindful of their emotional responses to news, as outrage and fear are often used to capture attention, potentially skewing perception. Each person has the power to influence their environment and society, and should leverage that power through informed voting and civic engagement. Education and knowledge about current events empower individuals, allowing them to make informed decisions and participate actively in democracy. A free press is essential for a healthy democracy, and individuals play a critical role in supporting journalistic integrity by engaging with credible media sources. Table of Contents: 00:00 Intro 01:12 New trend of avoiding the news 02:25 Give yourself credit for what you are able to do 07:42 We’re all adults that can accept reality 10:01 “If it bleeds, it leads.” 13:07 Even when the media isn’t completely trustworthy, it isn’t completely untrustworthy either 16:49 Journalism is a check and balance against corruption 20:16 You don’t just exist helplessly in a world created by others 23:53 Knowledge is the great equalizer 29:47 Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Consume the News Without Falling Apart (Ep. 20) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In one of our most focused episodes to date, Luke deconstructs the notion of perfection and suggests achiveable standards, such as authentic self-expression, that are still worth striving toward: Perfection is an unrealistic and unattainable standard that no one can truly achieve, even in simple tasks like drawing a perfect circle. Holding yourself to a standard of perfection is unnecessarily cruel and prevents you from being genuine, authentic, and relatable to others. Your worth as a human being is independent of any criteria or flaws, just as you would not reject a friend for having “imperfections.” Limitations, flaws, and imperfections are where we find room for connection, growth, and the formation of meaningful relationships. As an adult, you will often find yourself at the “edge of knowledge” where there are no clear answers, and you must rely on your own inner guidance and reasoning. Perfection is a concept that looks to the past, whereas true progress often requires breaking from the mold of what has been done before. The 80/20 rule suggests that trying to achieve 100% perfection often results in diminishing returns and is not worth the excessive effort. Your inner critic has few valid opinions and should be ignored, as true criticism must come from a place of appreciation and understanding. Perfectionism often stems from a sense of low self-worth, and recognizing your inherent human value can help you let go of this unrealistic standard. The goal should be to recognize where you are already doing well enough, rather than faulting yourself for falling short of an impossible ideal of perfection. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 00:56 – You can only expect perfection in elementary tasks 03:31 – Perfection is unnatural 05:30 – Your favorite things aren’t perfect 07:44 – In most human endeavors, perfection isn’t necessary 08:33 – There is no such thing as a perfect animal or plant 10:40 – The rules for how we treat life are different from the rules for how we treat objects 12:40 – Our lack of perfection, our “scratches,” are where practices of healing, friendship, and community take place 16:01 – Imperfection, or deviation from the model, is the only way to make something yours 25:23 – Perfectionism erases individuality 25:59 – 80/20 rule 28:13 – Reframing your inner critic 32:40 – Perfectionism and low self-worth 36:13 – The way to overcome perfectionism 37:00 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Stop Being a Perfectionist (Ep. 19) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In the eternal debate about whether the proverbial glass is half full or half empty, both arguments are often presented as equally valid. In this solo episode with Luke, he makes a case for why the glass being half full is the correct answer: A glass half full perspective encourages individuals to appreciate what they have rather than lamenting what they lack, fostering gratitude. Acknowledging and appreciating what one has can counteract negative thoughts, promoting mental well-being. Recognizing abundance does not equate to complacency; it can motivate individuals to nurture and build upon their existing blessings. We include practical examples, such as wealth comparisons and feelings of inadequacy in relationships, to illustrate how a glass half full perspective can shift one’s emotional state. A change in perspective happens instantaneously, allowing individuals to find peace and happiness without waiting for external changes. By focusing on the positives, individuals can build resilience against stress and feelings of inadequacy in various aspects of life, including work and personal relationships. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 00:54 – The correct view of the glass 01:24 – You can only make a meal with the ingredients you have 05:12 – A half-full view is grateful and appreciative; a half-empty view is ungrateful and cynical 07:12 – Changes in perspective happen instantaneously, requiring no change to your nature, your life or the world around you 15:42 – Happy people are still motivated, productive and advocates for change 16:39 – Stuff your inner critic into a box 18:00 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, when you are stressed 19:16 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, in the context of public speaking 21:21 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, as applied to exercise motivation 22:52 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, when feeling insecure in a relationship 23:53 – Example: Where the glass is half-full, when worrying about your career 25:02 – Practise gratitude 29:40 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Why the Glass Is Half Full (Ep. 18 of How to Be an Adult) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

This episode of How to Be an Adult, the second of two parts, features a very special guest: Marc Lewis, Ph.D., psychologist, academic and bestselling author of Memoirs of an Addicted Brain and The Biology of Desire. Marc joins Luke in our studio to discuss how popular models of addiction are flawed, and how we can better serve those who are suffering: Shame is a major obstacle in addiction recovery, as it can exacerbate the problem rather than help. There can be a positive intent or function behind addictive behaviors, which is often overlooked. Unconditional positive regard and self-acceptance are crucial for supporting those struggling with addiction. Systemic factors like poverty, lack of social support, and toxic environments significantly contribute to addiction. Harm reduction approaches that focus on minimizing harm rather than abstinence can be a helpful strategy. The ideal is to find ways to address the root causes and context rather than just self-medicating, but this is not always feasible. Willpower and self-control are complex and can be influenced by various factors, not a simple binary. Narratives, personal stories, and understanding the individual’s experience are valuable in understanding and treating addiction. Practices like AA that involve confession and acceptance can provide a sense of community and belonging that supports recovery. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and flexibility and nuance are required when addressing addiction. This episode continues episode 16. To learn more about Marc’s work, visit his website. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 00:45 – Recognise the positive intent behind addiction 04:22 – The importance of self-love and forgiveness 11:00 – Addiction in unchangeable circumstances and toxic environments 26:12 – Sheer willpower 28:50 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post More About Addiction, with Marc Lewis (Ep. 17, pt. 2 of 2) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

This episode of How to Be an Adult, the first of two parts, features a very special guest: Marc Lewis, Ph.D., psychologist, academic and bestselling author of Memoirs of an Addicted Brain and The Biology of Desire. Marc joins Luke in our studio to discuss how popular models of addiction are flawed, and how we can better serve those who are suffering: The medical model of addiction as a disease disempowers those it’s supposed to help, by taking away their sense of agency and responsibility. Addiction is better understood as a psychological habit, a cognitive and emotional pattern, rather than a brain disease or pathology. The opposite of addiction is not sobriety, but connection—the lack of meaningful social bonds and relationships is a key factor in addiction. Practices like mindfulness, self-reflection, and cultivating self-love and compassion can be more effective in overcoming addiction than the disease model and 12-step programs. The disease model of addiction became popular as a way to remove stigma and blame from addicts, but it has had the unintended consequence of also removing their sense of agency. Addiction is deeply intertwined with our broader psychological and social lives, so it cannot be neatly categorized or treated as a distinct medical condition. The medical model of addiction is perpetuated in part because it is more easily institutionalized (and monetized) compared to approaches focused on personal agency and social connection. Engaging with the different “parts” of the self, including the addictive urges, with compassion and an understanding of their positive intentions can be a helpful approach (Internal Family Systems therapy). Addiction often stems from trauma and has an undercurrent of shame, so it’s important to address those root causes. To learn more about Marc’s work, visit his website. Luke’s conversation with Marc continues in part 2 of this interview, which will be released in two weeks. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 02:42 – The dominant model of addiction 06:13 – Perception of addicts as lacking agency and the benefits of self-empowerment 09:35 – Practices for and approaches to treating addiction 23:41 – Marc’s experience with challenging the disease model 27:16 – Self-love’s role within addiction 35:56 – Internal Family Systems Therapy 42:01 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post About Addiction, with Marc Lewis (Ep. 16, pt. 1 of 2) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

Not every relationship lasts forever, and it’s when a relationship ends that all your self-loving and self-caring will really matter. In this episode, Luke and Pascal draw from their own personal heartbreaks to discuss some ways to cope with a breakup: Experiencing a breakup is a normal grieving process, not a sign of being “broken.” Acceptance is the inevitable end point. Both parties can walk away from a breakup with their self-worth and dignity intact. Avoid blaming yourself or your ex, and focus on questions that lead to growth. Practice self-care and self-compassion during this difficult time. Your worth is inherent as a human being, not defined by others. There are multiple paths to happiness and fulfillment beyond any one relationship. Relationships naturally have an end date, which is not inherently bad. The one constant, permanent relationship is the one you have with yourself. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate the grieving process. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Introduction 01:26 – You are grieving, and it’s normal to go through the stages of grief 04:54 – At the end is acceptance, which is the light at the end of the tunnel 08:41 – You can both walk away with your dignity and your (separate) futures fully intact 18:35 – Remember to love and care for yourself, to, as you will often be the person most in need of your support 25:23 – Nobody is the arbiter of your worth, not even your inner critic, and especially not your ex 28:44 – There are multiple (perhaps infinite) paths to happiness and love, never just one 34:03 – Most of your relationships have an end date, and this is not a bad thing 39:31 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Cope with a Breakup (Ep. 15) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

When you keep hearing that you need to love yourself, and nobody gives you instructions in how, it’s easy to feel stuck (and not any more loved). But self-loving people are not a different breed of human being: they’ve just internalized certain lessons earlier in life. In this episode, we’ll do our best to articulate what these lessons might be, so that you can adopt them in adulthood for the decades-long timeline of your future, too: Love is a positive-sum pursuit, not a zero-sum or negative-sum one. Loving yourself does not take away love from others. The only condition for self-love is simply being a living human being. There should be no other conditions placed on one’s self-worth. Self-love is a process, not just a static state. It requires actively turning inward and finding the love within yourself. Look to where the “glass is half full” rather than dwelling on what’s missing. Focus on appreciating what you do have. Apply self-love as a salve to heal emotional and physical wounds, just as you would comfort a friend. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding you would extend to a loved one in a similar situation. You already have the capacity for self-love within you. You just need to recognize and nurture those positive thoughts and feelings. Overcoming resistance to self-love often stems from conditioning in childhood where love was conditional. Societal and cultural messages can also contribute to the difficulty in practicing self-love. Self-love is a fundamental human right, not something that must be earned or achieved through perfection. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 03:17 – Love is a positive-sum pursuit, not zero-sum. 08:00 – You need no reason to love yourself other than that you’re alive. 12:52 – Your own heart makes more of it and you won’t run out. 14:16 – If you don’t feel anything the first time, try as many times as you need to. 19:02 – Look where the glass is half-full, not half-empty. 22:47 – Apply self-love to wherever it hurts, is scared or feels empty. 26:25 – When you’re treating yourself equally to others, you’re doing it right. 32:32 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Love Yourself, Too (Ep. 14) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

If you’ve had an experience that overwhelmed your ability to cope, or when you’ve been in an environment where you were regularly unable to cope, you’ve experienced psychological trauma. In this episode, we share seven principles for living well with our wounds and speeding our journeys toward healing and recovery. Trauma is common. Depending on how you define it, around 75% of people experience some form of trauma in their past. Trauma does not mean someone is “broken”, rather they have experienced wounds that can heal with time, care, and adopting healthy coping strategies. It is important for trauma survivors to fulfill all their basic physical, social, emotional and safety needs. This includes needs like food, water, sleep, touch/physical contact. Trauma survivors should treat themselves with compassion as they would a loved one, recognizing their inherent worth and that they are responsible for their own well-being and care. Grounding techniques like being present in the senses and immersive experiences can help trauma survivors avoid rumination and flashbacks. Connecting to one’s own moral center and values can help avoid being demoralized by toxic people and viewpoints. Small, incremental steps towards self-care should be recognized and celebrated, not criticized. Experiences of awe, beauty and transcendence through art/nature can help trauma survivors feel less alone. Trauma-informed therapy can aid recovery when immersed in a supportive environment. It is important for trauma survivors to avoid harmful coping mechanisms like drugs/alcohol and instead sit with difficult emotions in a self-compassionate way. Table of Contents: 00:00 – Intro 04:51 – Point One: You are wounded, not broken 09:34 – Point Two: Take guardianship of your body 16:37 – Point Three: Fulfill all of your physical needs 24:01 – Point Four: Find your moral centre 28:20 – Point Five: Believe in the evidence of your senses 33:04 – Point Six: Give yourself healthy stimulation 41:30 – Point Seven: Keep away harms 47:21 – Outro Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post How to Live Well After Trauma (Ep. 13) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.

In this episode, we advocate for capital-letter Truth, Morality and Beauty in our purportedly post-modern world, and we argue that these ideals are not quaintly outdated, but necessary for society to function and for you (as an adult) to be at your happiest: Pursuing truth, morality and beauty are worthwhile goals even in modern times, and not just “Victorian” concepts. Maintaining lies, especially lies to oneself, can be psychologically and physically damaging over time due to the stress of keeping up deceit. Defining and staying connected to one’s own moral values and sense of right and wrong can help reduce anxiety and improve mental health. Universal human morality can be defined as behaviors that are pro-social and foster good social relationships and community. Foundations like religion previously provided backing for moral systems, so alternative foundations need to be established. Beauty can be defined as a balance between chaos and order, and things done with care and quality are more likely to be considered beautiful. Architecture and art should aim to be aesthetically pleasing since most people will experience it. One’s environment should aim to create positive feelings in others. Table of Contents: 0:00 – Introduction 1:04 – Truth 16:00 – Morality 32:00 – Beauty Listen above, on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube, free of third-party advertising. Remember to like, subscribe and share! The post Truth, Morality and Beauty: Not Just for Victorians (Ep. 12) appeared first on The Morpheus Clinic for Hypnosis.