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  • E033: Get Off The Treadmill

    "Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body." – Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    There is a psychological theory called the hedonic treadmill that describes the tendency of humans to return to a relatively stable level of happiness or satisfaction following temporary changes in life circumstances. In other words, we can turn the speed of our happiness up or down with our pursuits of pleasure, but in the end, we just keep running in place.

    So, how do we do get off of this treadmill? By focusing on eudaimonic pursuits over hedonic ones.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    The hedonic treadmill describes the tendency of humans to return to a relatively stable level of happiness or satisfaction following temporary changes in life circumstances. Eudaimonic happiness, which focuses on living a life of virtue and meaning, can provide a deeper and more enduring sense of fulfillment than hedonic happiness. Persisting through difficulty and resisting the allure of short-term gratification can lead to personal growth and a greater level of happiness. Expanding one's comfort zone by embracing challenges and hardships can catalyze a deeper level of happiness and satisfaction in life.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “Reason goes for nothing when once passion has been admitted to the mind, and has by our own free will been given a certain authority.” – Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    While anger may be a natural and unavoidable emotion, our response to it is still within our control. By cultivating the habit of delaying our reaction to anger, we can, instead, harness the power of patience and restraint. We talk about it today on the podcast.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    Taking a timeout when feeling angry can help disrupt impulsive reactions and prevent saying or doing things we will regret. Delaying our reactions to anger allows for a more balanced perspective and fosters healthier relationships. Cultivating patience, restraint, and emotional control can lead to greater virtue and peace of mind. Lowering the temperature and rejecting things we do not control can help us navigate through challenging situations.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

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  • Given my background as a Special Agent I have been getting a lot of questions about the Trump shooting on Saturday and my opinion on security failures, the Secret Service response, staffing issues and what comes next. I brought my friend and classmate Jeff Fields on to discuss this incident and provide some insight from two former Special Agents who have worked with (and investigated) Secret Service.

    The conversation discusses the Trump assassination attempt and the role of the Secret Service in protecting the President and other high-profile individuals. We dive into the different divisions within the Secret Service and their responsibilities. We analyze the incident and the potential lapses in security that allowed the gunman to get within 400 feet of the President. We highlight the coordination between the Secret Service and local law enforcement agencies and emphasize the extensive training and vetting process that Secret Service agents undergo. We also discuss the criticism and misconceptions surrounding the female agents involved in the incident and address the training and skills of female agents, the challenges of using certain holsters, and the importance of communication and coordination during high-stress situations. The conversation also explores the allocation of resources and the limitations faced by the Secret Service in terms of hiring and budget and highlights the complexity of presidential protection and the need for a comprehensive understanding of the operational challenges.

    The conversation explores the issues and challenges within the Secret Service including recruitment and retention problems, resource allocation, communication failures, and the need for accountability. while highlighting the sacrifices and challenges faced by Secret Service agents, such as constant travel and missed family events.

    Finally, we dig into the potential separation of criminal investigative responsibilities from the Secret Service and the impact of being absorbed into the Department of Homeland Security while laying out what we hope to see for changes and accountability going forward.

  • “Live not as though there were a thousand years ahead of you. Fate is at your elbow; make yourself good while life and power are still yours.” – Marcus Aurelius

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    First responders understand the unpredictability of life better than most. Every call reinforces that our circumstances can change in an instant. This knowledge can be a gift, if we choose to accept it.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!


    Takeaways

    Life is fragile and unpredictable, and we should not take it for granted. First responders have a unique perspective on the fragility of life and should use that knowledge to live in the present and take action. Procrastination and complacency can prevent us from making the most of each moment. Reflecting on our actions and priorities can help us avoid procrastination and live with purpose.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “The more we value things outside our control, the less control we have.” – Epictetus

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    In the Stoic framework, things within our control are often referred to as “internal” things. These include our thoughts, beliefs, values, attitudes, choices, and actions. They are aspects of our lives that we have the power to influence and direct according to our own will. The more we focus on them, the more control we have.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    The incident involving former President Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania is still under investigation, and there are ongoing discussions about the lapses in security. In the aftermath of such incidents, online arguments and debates often arise, but it is important to focus on what is within our control and live in accordance with virtue. Taking a break from social media and directing our energy towards things we can control can help maintain our equanimity and improve as public servants.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “Let us meet with bravery whatever may befall us. Let us never feel a shudder at the thought of being wounded or of being made a prisoner, or of poverty or persecution.” – Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    Stoicism acknowledges that suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. Rather than shying away from or fearing these trials, Stoics embrace them as opportunities for personal growth and the development of inner strength. We dig into Stoic sacrifice on the podcast today!

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways:

    Adversity is an inherent part of the human experience, and Stoicism teaches us to embrace it with bravery and use it as an opportunity for personal growth. Seneca's life exemplifies the Stoic principles of facing adversity and standing on principle, even in the face of powerful opposition. First responders must be prepared to meet challenges with bravery and stand firm on their principles, even if it means sacrificing their careers.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “Withdraw into yourself, as far as you can. Associate with those who will make a better man of you. Welcome those whom you yourself can improve. The process is mutual; for men learn while they teach.” – Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    The role of a Field Training Officer is crucial in helping new officers transition from the academic and theoretical aspects of police training to the practical and real-world scenarios they will encounter on the job. Unfortunately, for many rookies the only real world scenarios they encountered with an FTO was where to get a uniform discount at lunch time and the best place to catch a cat nap on duty. Let’s talk about how we be better teachers while also learning.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways:

    Continuous learning and teaching are essential in the law enforcement and first responder professions. Seek out colleagues and friends who inspire and challenge you to become better. Build your own network of mentors and mentees. Never stop learning and teaching.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “There is no such thing as good or bad fortune for the individual; we live in common. And no one can live happily who has regard to himself alone and transforms everything into a question of his own utility; you must live for your neighbor, if you would live for yourself. ” — Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    In 1955, the Los Angeles Police Department held a contest to identify a motto that would express the ideals that the LAPD was dedicated to. The winning entry was the motto, “To Protect and to Serve” submitted by Officer Joseph S. Dorobek. Many departments have since adopted the slogan for themselves because of how succinctly it describes the relationship between police and the societies that they watch over. So what do the Stoics have to say about how we should protect and serve?

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways:

    Living for your neighbor and serving the community is essential for a harmonious and interconnected society. First responders play a crucial role in protecting and serving their neighbors. Prioritizing personal wellness is important for first responders to effectively serve others.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • "Enjoy present pleasures in such a way as not to injure future ones." – Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    Asking oneself a single filtering question like "Will it make the boat go faster?" involves considering the potential impact of each decision or action on the desired outcome. It requires a focus on efficiency, effectiveness, and eliminating distractions. It encourages us to stay disciplined, make sacrifices, and prioritize the actions in the present that have the greatest potential to contribute to our future success. We dig into it in today’s episode!

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways:

    The concept of 'Will it make the boat go faster?' can be applied to various aspects of life to guide decision-making and prioritize actions that contribute to desired future outcomes. By considering the potential impact of each decision or action on the desired outcome, individuals can focus on efficiency, effectiveness, and eliminating distractions. Having a clear goal or purpose and using a single metric or question as a filter can help individuals make better choices and stay disciplined. Applying the 'Will it make the boat go faster?' principle requires considering the long-term consequences of present actions and avoiding instant gratification that may harm future prospects.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “And as long as nothing satisfies you, you yourself cannot satisfy others ” - Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    It has been said by many a firearms instructor that an empty gun is little more than a poorly designed impact weapon. That’s why we practice emergency reloads and immediate action drills - so that we can get back in the fight. But what happens when your personal magazine runs dry?

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways:

    Taking care of oneself is essential in order to effectively serve others. An empty gun is useless, just like an empty cup or a burned-out individual. Taking breaks and engaging in activities that fulfill and rejuvenate us is crucial for mental health. Assessing our own well-being and taking action to reload and recharge is necessary for maintaining integrity and positive relationships.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “If a man knows not which port he sails, no wind is favorable.” – Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    As first responders, we all like to think that we are rooted in principles of integrity, honesty, and compassion, guiding us to act with kindness and empathy towards others. But like the sailor in Seneca’s quip, without a clear destination or purpose, we can easily become adrift, tossed about by the currents of circumstance and chance. And just as a ship requires a destination to steer towards, so too do we need a sense of purpose and direction to guide our actions and decisions.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways:

    Death is not something in the future but is happening right now. Living in constant fear of death prevents us from living fully. We should pursue our passions and dreams without hesitation or reservation. Confronting our mortality allows us to appreciate the preciousness of life. We should make a meaningful impact in our lives and the lives of others.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • "The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are." – Marcus Aurelius

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    To keep an untroubled spirit is to cultivate emotional resilience and the ability to withstand life's trials without being overwhelmed by negative emotions like anger, fear, or despair. But to succeed in this endeavor we must first be rational and reality-based in our thinking.

    Facing reality directly makes us more effective problem-solvers. By understanding the true nature of a situation, we can devise thoughtful and pragmatic solutions and approach our challenges with serenity and insight.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways:

    Cultivate emotional resilience to withstand life's trials without being overwhelmed by negative emotions. Be reality-based in your thinking and focus on facts first. Detach yourself from false beliefs and illusions. Ask yourself, 'What is true?' in every situation. Support organizations that are helping the law enforcement community.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “Your mind will be like its habitual thoughts; for the soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts.” – Marcus Aurelius

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    Every celebrity guru will sell you some version of the same mantra: “With my patented, proprietary method, you can change your thoughts and, thereby, change your life!” But long before Ted Talks were en vogue the Stoics had developed their own concept for changing their thoughts and improving their lives. They called it the inner citadel.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | www.kristoforhealey.com

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways:

    The inner citadel is a concept developed by the Stoics to maintain tranquility and resilience. Practicing self-awareness, self-discipline, and aligning with virtues helps in developing the inner citadel. Mentally rehearsing positive thoughts and reminding oneself of what is within their control is important. Asking oneself three questions - What do I stand for? What are my values? What is my purpose? - can help in focusing on what is important. Support the podcast and companies that support law enforcement.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “This is our big mistake: to think we look forward to death. Most of death is already gone. Whatever time has passed is owned by death.” – Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    We are all born with a terminal condition called life. When we live in fear of our natural and unavoidable death, we are paralyzed and prevented from living what remains of our life to its fullest potential.

    It is only by confronting our mortality and accepting the inevitability of death that we can truly appreciate the preciousness and fleetingness of life. Rather than allowing fear to hold us back, we should seize each moment as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, pursue our goals with determination, and to cultivate relationships and experiences that enrich our lives and the lives of others.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | LinkTree

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    Death is not something in the future but is happening right now. Living in constant fear of death prevents us from living fully. We should pursue our passions and dreams without hesitation or reservation. Confronting our mortality allows us to appreciate the preciousness of life. We should make a meaningful impact in our lives and the lives of others.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “A weak mind must be constantly entertained and stimulated. A strong mind can occupy itself and, more important, be still and vigilant in moments that demand it.” – Ryan Holiday

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    Panem et circenses is a Latin phrase that translates to "bread and circuses" in English. In ancient Rome, panem et circenses represented the political strategy employed by emperors and politicians to keep the population compliant. The government distributed free bread (panem) to citizens and organized lavish spectacles and entertainment (circenses), such as chariot races, gladiator fights, and theatrical performances, in grand arenas like the Colosseum. By providing basic necessities and diverting attention with extravagant shows, rulers aimed to prevent social unrest and maintain their power. Sound familiar?

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | LinkTree

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    The media operates in a way that keeps people constantly entertained and stimulated, leading to distraction and complacency. Mindfulness practices such as breath work, meditation, and journaling can help individuals stay vigilant and focused. First responders need to be prepared and aware during times of social unrest and political events. Taking breaks from technology and focusing on self-care is important for maintaining mental well-being.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “It does not matter what you bear, but how you bear it.” – Seneca

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    Will Jimeno was a 33 year old rookie cop for the Port Authority Police Department on the morning of September 11, 2001. Shortly after American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower, Jimeno and 19 of his colleagues boarded a commandeered bus and made their way towards the World Trade Center where they entered the mezzanine between the buildings. When the South Tower began to collapse minutes later, Jimeno, his colleague Dominick Pezzulo, and their sergeant, John McLoughlin were trapped in a freight elevator some 20 feet beneath the wreckage.

    Jimeno and McLoughlin were two of only twenty survivors to emerge from the collapsed buildings. Their amazing story reminds us that even in times of unimaginable despair, it is within our power to control our mind, and bear the burden with resilience and courage. It reminds us that what defines our character is not the adversity we face, but, rather, the attitude with which we face it.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | LinkTree

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    Supporting mental health services for first responders is crucial to their well-being. The 9/11 attacks had a profound impact on many first responders' lives and careers. The story of Will Jimeno and John McLaughlin demonstrates the power of resilience and mutual support in overcoming adversity. Controlling one's mind and bearing life's difficulties with resilience is key to personal growth and character development.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “In order to protect ourselves we must live like doctors and be continually treating ourselves with reason.”– Musonius Rufus

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    One thing we learned during the pandemic is the difference between proactive and reactive care. We can take proactive steps to avoid infection or strengthen our immune system, but once infected, the treatment is reactive to the illness.

    The Stoics viewed reason as proactive care for our mindset. Like a vitamin regimen or a workout schedule, we can take proactive steps to strengthen ourselves against infection.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | LinkTree

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    Taking time away from our daily responsibilities can help us find creative energy and renewed purpose. Treating ourselves with reason is like taking proactive steps to protect our mindset. Self-examination, self-reflection, mindfulness, and a commitment to self-improvement are essential for living a more fulfilled and authentic life. Being open to learning and adapting our views and behaviors is crucial for personal growth. Treating ourselves with reason is a form of preventative medicine for our minds.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “The responsibility is all yours; no one can stop you from being honest or straightforward.” – Marcus Aurelius

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    A screenshot from a 2009 educational video posted to YouTube by Stephen Morris has become a popular meme showcasing how the ‘Domino Effect’ works. In the meme, users label the first tiny domino with some insignificant event like “skipping class today” and then the last, large domino, with a life changing event such as “becoming homeless.” It’s a humorous way to illustrate how a small step in the wrong direction can have lasting impact on our lives. This is especially true for law enforcement. We discuss a personal story about how this can go terribly wrong on today’s podcast.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | LinkTree

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    One small decision can have significant consequences, especially in law enforcement. Being honest and straightforward is crucial to maintaining integrity and avoiding negative outcomes. Avoiding honesty and choosing to cover up mistakes can lead to a chain of lies and destructive actions. Taking responsibility for one's actions and being willing to admit mistakes can soften the blow of negative consequences.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “Enter people’s minds, and you’ll find the judges you’re so afraid of — and how judiciously they judge themselves.” – Marcus Aurelius

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    Imposter Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon characterized by persistent self-doubt and the fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of one's competence and accomplishments. Individuals experiencing this phenomenon often dismiss their achievements as luck, timing, or the result of deceiving others rather than acknowledging their own skills and qualifications.

    At its core, Imposter Syndrome is a fear of being judged. But whose judgment, exactly, are we afraid of?

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | LinkTree

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    Imposter syndrome is characterized by persistent self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud. The judgments we fear from others are often projections of their own insecurities and self-assessments. Use the fear of judgment as fuel for success and see others' success as a model rather than being jealous. Recognize the common human experience of seeking self-approval and free yourself from the tyranny of external opinions.

    Until Next Time…out of role!

  • “One person likes tending to his farm, another to his horse; I like to daily monitor my self-improvement.” — Epictetus

    In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:

    There are plenty of schools of thought on room clearing, but one universal truth is that thresholds are dangerous places, and how we approach them and negotiate them requires coordination and communication. That is why instructors encourage us to pause before crossing or entering a threshold. A quick pause, or ‘threshold check,’ allows us an opportunity to assess the situation before moving. It is, above all, an exercise in self-awareness. How can we apply this tactical concept to our personal lives? We discuss it on the podcast today.

    Resources + Links:

    Connect with Kristofor | LinkTree

    Connect with Kristofor on Instagram | @team_healey

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on Substack | https://thestoicresponder.substack.com

    Subscribe to The Stoic Responder on YouTube | The Stoic Responder

    Buy your copy of In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders, here!

    Buy your copy of Indispensable: A Tactical Plan for the Modern Man, here!

    Book Kristofor for a speaking event, here!

    Takeaways

    Threshold checks are essential in both tactical situations and personal life to assess the situation and practice self-awareness. Pausing before crossing a threshold allows for better decision-making and reduces the risk of unnecessary conflict. Self-improvement requires self-assessment and identifying areas for growth. Practicing daily threshold checks can lead to personal growth and improvement.

    Until Next Time…out of role!