Episode 1147 – Taming Your Inner Critic and Managing the Monkey Mind
Meet the Monkey Mind
Mike Campion kicked things off with Suzanne Bandick, a favorite guest among the Cleaning Nation. Today’s topic? The monkey mind. Mike shared that he first heard this term from a former mindset coach, Tracey, who now owns a cleaning company. This concept, though seemingly simple, can be a big barrier for many.
What is the Monkey Mind?
Suzanne explained the monkey mind as that little voice in your head that sows seeds of doubt. It’s the nagging thought that jumps in the moment you get a great idea. It reminds you of past failures and questions your ability to succeed. This voice can paralyze you, stopping you from doing things that could help you grow. Mike chimed in, sharing how this voice can pop up immediately or even creep in over time, hindering creativity and problem-solving.
Why We Have a Monkey Mind
The monkey mind, Suzanne said, is like a gremlin in your head. It’s trying to protect you by bringing up past failures or future fears. Mike admitted that he always viewed the monkey mind as purely destructive, but Suzanne reframed it. The monkey mind’s intentions aren’t bad—it’s trying to keep you safe, even if it’s often wrong. This insight helped Mike see the monkey mind as shortsighted but not evil.
Taming the Monkey Mind
Suzanne emphasized that the first step to dealing with the monkey mind is to acknowledge it. Say, “Thank you for sharing,” to the little voice in your head. Recognize that it’s trying to protect you. Then, use the word “however” to shift your perspective. For instance, “However, this time I have support,” or “However, this time I’m better prepared.” This helps you move past the doubts and focus on your strengths and support systems.
Real-Life Examples
Mike gave a scenario about hiring employees. The monkey mind might say, “Nobody wants to work here,” or “Employees always steal.” Suzanne suggested separating these thoughts and addressing them one by one. Acknowledge the monkey mind, then counter with realistic perspectives: “There must be people who love cleaning and want to work.” Writing down these thoughts can help manage the monkey mind’s interruptions.
By the end of their conversation, Mike appreciated the nuanced approach to handling the monkey mind. Instead of trying to “kill” it, they discussed taming it, making it a more manageable and even helpful part of your thought process.