Ep.186 – Dr. Jennifer Dragonette – Bridging the Gap Between Financial Anxiety and Reality
How do you bridge the gap between the anxiety you may be feeling and the realities of your current situation?
Our resident therapist, Dr. Jennifer Dragonette, explains the core principles of ACT, a behavioral therapy developed by Dr. Steven Hayes, designed to foster present-moment awareness, acceptance of reality, and cognitive diffusion.
Dr. Jen makes these concepts accessible, helping listeners visualize their thoughts as separate entities that can be managed rather than overtaken by them. Our conversation focuses on a listener question regarding a significant life transition—retirement—and how deeply ingrained financial anxieties clash with aspirations like generosity.
We tie the realms of financial planning with understanding the psychological complexities that impact our financial decisions. Whether you're on the cusp of retirement or navigating any transitional phase, this insightful dialogue will equip you with the tools to align reality with your aspirations.
Please enjoy my conversation with Dr. Jennifer Dragonette.
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES YOU MAY LIKE
1 Big Idea to Think About
A key takeaway from the episode is the importance of recognizing and separating our thoughts from reality by using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles, which helps in moving towards our values despite fears and anxieties, especially regarding financial transitions like retirement. By embracing mindfulness and committed action, individuals can navigate their emotions and make decisions that align with their core values, ultimately leading to greater psychological flexibility and fulfillment.
1 Way You Can Apply This
To navigate the challenging transition to retirement while alleviating financial anxiety, practice mindfulness and values-oriented actions. Embrace Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) by acknowledging financial fears without letting them dictate your behavior, and take small steps towards meaningful goals, like engaging in valued generosity, to align your actions with your core values and cultivate a fulfilling retirement experience.
1 Question to Ask
What small action can I take this week that aligns with my core values and moves me toward the life I want to live, despite any fear or anxiety I may be experiencing?
Key Moments From the Show
00:24 Topic introduction: Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), its definition and importance.
01:32 Overview of ACT's principles, including mindfulness and present moment awareness.
02:43 Explanation of cognitive defusion and separating thoughts from self.
04:09 Discussion on values identification and moving toward one's core values.
06:47 Visualization technique using thought imagery to manage anxiety.
07:50 Listener question about the tie-in of ACT to financial planning and spending anxiety.
10:26 Acknowledgment of listener Maeve's challenges with spending anxiety post-retirement.
14:58 Conversation about transitioning from a work identity to a post-retirement identity.
20:08 Discussion on successful transitions to retirement involving transitioning to a purpose.
23:08 Suggestions for Maeve: Validate her awareness and propose small steps towards generosity.
Resources Featured in This Episode:
How to Use Emotions as Information
The Science of Motivation and Strategies to Help You Achieve Your Purpose
Living Intentionally - Aligning Financial Decisions with Your Core Values