Episode 115: Making Sense of Metacognition
Peter and Robyne take a step back to discuss metacognition: our remarkable ability to reflect on what and how we think. How does this serve us, when does it not, and how can we notice the difference? Plus, finding meaningful opportunities to give back.
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Show Notes
We cover many topics in this episode, including:
- Peter discusses the experience of presenting in his second language (French), and how he’s usually able to ‘think’ in French (after a short language refresher)
- Robyne discusses her interest in 'thinking about thinking’ - learning about how we think, as well as how we dream
- Robyne discusses ‘metacognition’, the concept of being able to think about how we think, and how humans are the only beings we know of that can do this
- This metacognition allows us to make significant advances as a species because we are able to analyze how we think and improve it, but it can also cause us to get stuck in our thinking - stuck thinking about our past, our future, our self-worth, etc.
- Peter discusses the weight of witnessing the disparity of the social classes in Ottawa (and the world at large), and how he’s unable to adjust his thinking to look past it
- Robyne explains that there is a balance that needs to be attained between becoming numb and complacent, and letting these feelings paralyze you
- To find this balance when encountering people going through a rough time on the street, Robyne’s advice is to help when you you’re able to, and consider at least making friendly eye contact so they feel seen - or pick a few key areas of charity support you’re able to offer, and then you can feel confident drawing a boundary and turning down other charity opportunities
- You don’t have to wait until you’re well off to be charitable - you can do it now - just scale it down to a level you are able to contribute at this time
I think what is so important is finding strategies so that we can care deeply about community and people around us but not carry it into our days to the point where it paralyzes us. – Robyne
Additional Resources:
- La somme de tous nos efforts by Peter Katz (album)
- Leading Well from Within by Daniel Friedland
- Stress Wisely by Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
- Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
- Time to Connect, co-led by Peter and Dr. Robyne, is an interactive session purposefully designed to unite, recharge, and elevate team cohesion and performance, leaving your people with a renewed sense of unity and resiliency. Click the link to learn more about how Time to Connect can support your team.
- Your Time - Peter and Robyne’s asynchronous learning experience is now available! Please click the link to learn more.
Credits:
Hosted by Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe and Peter Katz
Produced by Trevor Campbell
Edited by Sean Ban Beaton
Theme song by Peter Katz
Podcast cover art by Trevor Campbell
Show logistics by Erin Marshall and Jenna Green
Connect:
Connect with Peter Peterkatz.com | Peterkatzspeaks.com
Connect with Robyne Drrobyne.ca
Follow Peter and Robyne on social media:
Peter Katz: Facebook: @peterkatzmusic | Instagram: @peterkatzmusic | LinkedIn: Peter Katz
Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe: Instagram: @dr_robynehd | LinkedIn: drrobynehd
*The information presented in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional if you require assistance.
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