Send us a text

We know what we want. We know when we want it. We think, at least. Every time we actually get serious about our dreams we find ourselves resisting every step towards actually fulfilling them. What gives? What is it about actually starting to see the success we have long craved coming to fruition that inspires us to self-sabotage?

In this episode of Nah-cademics, Brett and John try to get to the bottom of the brutal tendency to get in our own way and guard the doors of our own dreams. We look at the many subtle habits so many of us have developed to prevent ourselves from actually following the path we know we want to walk both when the going gets tough and (infuriatingly) when the going gets easier.

-What does self-sabotage look like? Do we always know when we're doing it, and is it something that can eventually be managed through enough awareness and perseverance?

-Is it accurate that humans are wired for comfort over happiness--even when that comfort/safety comes in the form of confining ourselves to relationships, routines, and lives that not only don't fulfill us but often make us miserable?

-Could it be said that spending time on an amateur podcast was, itself, a form of self-sabotage on the part of Brett and John who each have musical aspirations (allegedly)?

As always, this podcast offers no definitive answers to these questions (well, except maybe that last one. Answer: probably, but it's at least a more entertaining form of sabotage than all of the other distraction we'd inevitably be using to not make music), it is but quibbling in the quicksand. However, if you find yourself constantly telling yourself that you know what steps to take towards a better life, but instead find yourself just pacing the unfulfilling circular pattern you know, this podcast is for you!

Come, overthink with us!

JohnDennisMusic.com
BrettRyanStewart.com
Wirebird Productions

Send us a text

In the early innings of yet another new year, compelled to take on fresh resolutions and (likely short-lived) self-improvement projects, it can be difficult not to get overwhelmed by the incessant pressure to always be working on oneself. Of course, it is both noble and worthwhile to be willing to grow and heal, but is it possible to go overboard? Is there such a thing as unhealthy self-care?

In Season 2 episode 3 of Nah-cademics, Brett and John reconvene to discuss the, sometimes neurotic, tendency to constantly be looking for areas of improvement and consuming self-help materials—be it literature, motivational speakers, or binging those online inspirational quotes in typewriter font printed over a bust of Marcus Aurelius or Mt. Everest… you know the ones.

-In an era of much needed destigmatization of and emphasis on self-reflection, mental health, and trauma exploration, is it possible to overidentify with one’s brokenness and perceived need to be “fixed?”

-How can one approach self-improvement in a healthy and compassionate manner, rather than simply approaching personal recovery with the same tendencies toward self-abandonment, imbalance, and overextension?

-Is the term self-hell the most clever and artistically significant contribution Brett and John will collectively make to the world?

As always, this podcast offers no definitive answers to these questions (well, except maybe that last one. Answer: all signs point to yes, and Brett came up with it, so not looking good for the J man); it is but the blathering of the “broken.” However, if you find yourself burnt out trying to cure your perfectionism with more perfectionism, this podcast is for you.

Come, overthink with us!

JohnDennisMusic.com
BrettRyanStewart.com
Wirebird Productions

Send us a text

JohnDennisMusic.com
BrettRyanStewart.com
Wirebird Productions