Moment 170: The Scientific Method For Unstoppable Confidence: Professor Steve Peters

Jul 12, 2024 9m 36s 6 insights
A doctor discusses addressing low self-esteem and maladaptive coping strategies by first ruling out mental illness. He introduces a model of the "human system" versus interfering "chimp" and "computer" systems, emphasizing defining one's ideal self.
Actionable Insights

1. Seek Professional Medical Assessment

If experiencing symptoms like low self-esteem, ensure your mind is not ill (e.g., depression) by consulting a doctor. This is the critical first step to rule out underlying conditions that require treatment.

2. Define Your Ideal Self

Get a blank piece of paper and write down who you want to be and what behaviors you want to have, focusing on your desired state rather than current problems. This process helps define your true self and can immediately boost self-esteem.

3. Differentiate True Self from Interference

Recognize that your desired characteristics (e.g., calm, confident) represent your true “human system,” while anxiety or negative behaviors are interferences from the “chimp” or “computer” systems. Understanding this distinction helps realize that your outward presentation is not always your authentic self.

4. Recognize Natural Machine Behaviors

Understand that actions of the “chimp” system, even unhelpful ones like overeating or people-pleasing, are natural, not necessarily personal flaws. This reframing prevents you from confusing yourself with the machine’s automatic responses, which can otherwise be seen as weaknesses.

5. Explore Roots of Low Self-Esteem

After defining your true self and understanding the machine’s role, investigate why you developed low self-esteem. Recognizing its origins can help in unpicking these patterns and understanding them as natural but unhelpful.

6. Express Difficult Emotions

If you are not yet in a place to define your ideal self, allow yourself to express all your feelings and get them off your chest. This initial step is important for emotional release and can precede deeper self-exploration.