I was once told that in one lifetime, you can have many different experiences, many different careers. You can live many lives in one life. I LOVE this message so much…this statement has really given me the freedom to choose, to change, to go where my heart and my compass leads me.

And I would say that this mindset describes my own career path—I’ve switched career paths several times now and each of these experiences have only made my ability to adapt greater, my perspective that much richer…but the transition and the change itself never really gets easier, per se.

Greg Bodin, an ACT-based psychotherapist in San Francisco and our guest today, went through a major career change in his early 30’s…though he was encouraged by everyone around him, who were certain of his ability to become a therapist…he admits that he was hijacked by thoughts about his ability to be excellent in his work with clients…thoughts like, “I’m going to mess this up.” “I’m so not good at this.” “It’s so hard.” Thoughts characterized by this label or this greater story of being an imposter.

Today Greg is going to share that story and the many ways in which he has responded to this imposter narrative, as well as some really helpful tools that he uses to navigate these thoughts…that, admittedly, still pop up from time to time. Listen to his story and see how you might relate to it in your own way…perhaps as you consider a role change, job change, or even a career change. See if you can recognize your own internal experiences and ways in which you respond to them.

During the episode we talk about the metaphor of a Chinese finger trap and how this can parallel the struggle between you and your thoughts. For Greg the finger trap represented his struggle with the imposter line of thinking. As you listen, ask yourself, have you ever struggled with imposter syndrome? What is your finger trap struggle right now professionally or personally?

***

At the end of the episode I talk about my coaching service called “Vibrant Introverts” which seeks to serve folks who self-identify as introverts and who may experience social anxiety. In my work I empower you to define your values, your authentic self, develop people skills, build energy-giving habits, navigate social anxiety with self-compassion, and boldly pursue your greatest personal and professional goals.

Learn more on my website here: https://actinspiredbehaviorcoaching.com/coaching

***

My guest today was Greg Bodin, MS, LMFT, and a licensed psychotherapist with a private practice in San Francisco. He specializes in treating anxiety, trauma and men’s sexuality issues. Find him at:

Website: www.gregbodin.com

IG: @gregbodinpsychotherapy

Podcast Episodes

ACT-Inspired Behavior Coaching