Ep.174 – Dr. Teryn Clarke – The Brain’s Role in Goal Achievement and Parenting
We all know this time of year spurs great interest in setting goals and resolutions, but do you know the difference between the two?
Dr. Teryn Clarke, our resident neurologist expert, walks us through the difference between goals and resolutions and why we should focus on goals and not resolutions. Specifically, we address the acronym SMART when setting goals. We explore the vital role of tiny wins in habit building and the rewarding shift in medicine and financial planning towards a more collaborative, lifestyle-centric approach.
As an added bonus, Dr. Teryn and I reflect on the transitions from daily parenting struggles to the satisfaction of seeing our children become independent adults.
Please enjoy my conversation with Dr. Teryn Clarke.
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES YOU MAY LIKE
1 Big Idea to Think About
An insightful takeaway from the episode is the importance of recognizing and appreciating the small, incremental steps in both parenting and personal goal-setting, as these tiny actions collectively lead to significant, long-term achievements and fulfilling relationships.
1 Way You Can Apply This
To set and achieve meaningful health or financial goals, start by incorporating the concept of tiny goals—breaking down larger objectives into small, manageable steps. For example, if saving money or getting healthier feels overwhelming, aim to save just $5 a week or walk for 10 minutes a day; these incremental changes build momentum and create a sense of accomplishment, ultimately making long-term success more attainable and enhancing overall satisfaction.
1 Question to Ask
What small, attainable steps can I take today to make a significant impact on my long-term goals, and how can I ensure that I maintain motivation and consistency during the 'middle' of this journey?
Key Moments From the Show
18:21 Challenges in "attainable" goals within SMART goals, comparing financial planning and realistic expectations.
20:54 Dr. Clarke explains the relevance of small actions in achieving larger, meaningful goals, giving practical examples.
22:48 Discussing dopamine and goal achievement, emphasizing the need for smaller goals to build habits.
24:25 Importance of clear and specific goals for those with cognitive challenges, aiding better decision-making.
26:50 Maintaining motivation in the middle stages of goals, with a focus on consistency and manageable steps.
29:33 Efficiency of the brain and reducing decision fatigue by simplifying goals and plans.
31:55 Coaching roles in guiding clients through complex processes with support and structured plans.
34:45 Dr. Clarke's anecdote about her adult children returning home for the holidays, reflecting on family joy.
37:02 Comparison between current daily parenting challenges and the satisfaction of seeing independent adult children.
40:18 Exploring differences between goals and resolutions, detailing the SMART goals framework.
42:37 Tiny goals concept to ensure success and continuous progress, linking to habit building.
45:15 Shift from prescriptive to collaborative lifestyle medicine, focusing on disease prevention.
48:02 Shift in financial planning towards a holistic, collaborative approach, helping clients take charge of their financial health.
50:27 Enjoyment in empowering patients in making positive health changes, drawing a parallel to financial planning.
53:35 Parenting dynamics shift from instructive to supportive as children become adults.
56:22 Reflecting on the growth and future dynamics of familial relationships, appreciating present moments.
Resources Featured in This Episode:
Building Healthy Habits: Overcoming Fear and Anxiety Through Tiny Changes
How to Build Better Habits in the New Year