In this episode of the Anxiety Matters podcast, Bonnie East and West welcome their esteemed guest, Dr. Robert Leahy, a renowned psychologist and author of numerous books, including his recent release, "If Only: Finding Freedom from Regret." Their conversation centers around understanding the multifaceted nature of regret and how it can impact our lives, decisions, and mental health.

Dr. Leahy emphasizes that regret can be both a productive and unproductive emotion. While it often brings discomfort, it can also serve as a pathway to self-improvement and wisdom when navigated wisely. He draws comparisons between how we think about past decisions and current relationships, introducing the concept of “adaptive humility” as a means of fostering healthier interactions and deeper insights into our emotional lives. The conversation touches on how many individuals ruminate over past mistakes, but Dr. Leahy suggests reframing these thoughts into opportunities for growth.

They also discuss the inherent uncertainty of life and how our society's obsession with perfectionism can lead to increased regret. Dr. Leahy's insights remind us that it's natural to have mixed feelings when faced with decisions, and he encourages listeners to embrace this ambivalence rather than be paralyzed by the fear of making the wrong choice.

Throughout the episode, the narrative weaves in practical advice on how to handle regrets constructively, particularly in the context of relationships. Using metaphors such as a train journey, Dr. Leahy illustrates the importance of letting go of past grievances, allowing listeners to consider the potential futures that await them instead of dwelling on past failures.

By the end of the episode, they summarize that regret doesn’t have to define us; instead, it can guide us toward a more authentic life filled with meaningful relationships and experiences. Dr. Leahy's wisdom encourages us to shift our focus from what we’ve lost to what we can still gain, ensuring that moving forward becomes a journey characterized by growth, resilience, and, importantly, compassion—both for ourselves and others. This insightful and thought-provoking conversation not only shines a light on the complexities of regret but also empowers listeners to find freedom within it.

HIGHLIGHTS:

7:37 Welcoming Dr. Robert Leahy

14:21 Understanding Regret in Our Lives

36:36 Regret and the Impact of Loss

46:04 Balancing Regret and Emotional Intelligence

connect with Dr. Leahy:

American Institute for Cognitive Therapy: https://www.cognitivetherapynyc.com/staff/dr-robert-leahy/

Amazon Author Page & Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Robert-L.-Leahy/author/B000APW3QO?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=40d07c19-96d0-4e2f-98ab-5dde55f32df9

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west)

website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com

Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east)

website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.