Episode #148: “Overcome Anxiety and Stop the Cycle of Burnout” with Dr. Mary Anderson

This episode was sponsored by our parent company, Miles To Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why anxiety is so common among high achievers—and how to break the cycle.
• The role of cognitive distortions, like all-or-nothing thinking, in perpetuating anxiety.
• How recognizing and overcoming the “troublesome trifecta” of thought patterns can positively impact mental health.
• The importance of self-care pillars like sleep, exercise, and social connections for combating stress and burnout.
• Why striving for excellence (not perfection) allows for success without sacrificing happiness.
• How small, manageable self-care practices can lead to significant improvements.
• The surprising connection between ADHD and high achievement.
• Why self-worth should never be tied solely to external validation.
• How practicing gratitude can boost happiness and success.
• Practical strategies for cultivating awareness of your thoughts and feelings.

Key Takeaways:

• Self-awareness is the foundation of managing anxiety and stress.
• Cognitive distortions, such as should statements and jumping to conclusions, can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy but can be addressed with practice and mindfulness.
• High achievers can strive for goals without sacrificing their well-being by practicing structured self-care and self-compassion.
• There’s hope for high achievers to balance ambition with happiness—and it starts with small, intentional changes.

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What topics would you like to see us cover in upcoming episodes? —Alison

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