Key Insights
Why did Kimberly Quinlan turn down the opportunity to be on the Armchair Expert initially?
She wanted to give the opportunity to her friend Allegra, who had been a critical voice on the show's discussion about OCD.
What is the main focus of Kimberly Quinlan's work?
Her main focus is on self-compassion, which is woven into everything she does, including treating severe anxiety disorders.
What is orthorexia?
Orthorexia is an obsession with the purity and cleanliness of food, often involving eliminating food groups and preoccupation with preparing or consuming 'clean' foods.
How are eating disorders and OCD related?
Eating disorders and OCD are related in that they both involve obsessions and repetitive behaviors to reduce discomfort, often leading to a cycle of more restrictive behaviors.
What is the difference between social anxiety and shyness?
Social anxiety is the fear of being judged by others, which can be a shame disorder, whereas shyness is a more general term for being reserved or timid in social situations.
What is olfactory reference syndrome?
Olfactory reference syndrome is a condition where individuals have a core fear that they smell bad and obsess over this belief, seeking constant reassurance.
What is the best approach to dealing with panic attacks according to Kimberly Quinlan?
The best approach is to allow the panic to rise and fall without trying to fight it, as this builds mastery over panic and reduces its intensity over time.
What is the relationship between self-criticism and productivity?
Self-criticism is associated with higher rates of procrastination, reduced motivation, and increased burnout, leading to less productivity.
What is the 'compassion sandwich' technique mentioned by Kimberly Quinlan?
The 'compassion sandwich' technique involves using self-compassion before and after facing fears, with the actual facing of fears being the 'meat' of the work.
What is the physiological effect of self-criticism on the body?
Self-criticism ramps up the nervous system, causing increased anxiety and stress, which can make it harder to perform tasks.
Chapters
- Self-compassion involves treating oneself kindly, especially in the face of adversity.
- Low self-compassion scores can lead to higher rates of procrastination, reduced motivation, and increased burnout.
- Mindfulness and common humanity are key components of self-compassion.
