Behaviour Change Scientist: How I Lost 120lbs With Kindness: Shahroo Izadi | E222

Transformative Kindness: Shahroo Izadi's Journey to Sustainable Change

In this insightful episode, Shahroo Izadi, a behavioral change specialist and author of "The Kindness Method," shares her personal and professional experiences on transforming habits through self-kindness. With a background in psychosocial sciences and extensive experience in addiction treatment, Izadi unveils how she used the principles of behavioral change to overcome her own challenges and now aids others in doing the same.

Core Concepts and Philosophies

• Kindness as a Catalyst for Change: Izadi emphasizes that treating oneself with kindness and understanding is more effective for sustainable change than self-criticism and punishment.
• Understanding the Root Causes of Behaviors: She discusses the importance of recognizing why undesirable behaviors are adopted in the first place, suggesting that they often serve as coping mechanisms for deeper issues.
• Holistic Approach to Change: Her methodology integrates a compassionate exploration of one’s behaviors, rather than focusing solely on their elimination.

Practical Strategies and Advice

• Mapping Personal Narratives: Create maps that outline personal stories and behaviors to visually understand and address them.
• Incremental Changes: Encourage small, manageable changes that accumulate over time rather than drastic transformations.
• Self-Compassion Exercises: Regularly engage in exercises that promote self-compassion to reinforce positive self-dialogue and behaviors.

Supporting Evidence

Izadi's approach is grounded in her professional experiences in addiction treatment centers, where she observed the effectiveness of kindness and understanding in facilitating behavioral change. Her methods are supported by research in psychology and behavioral sciences that advocate for compassionate self-assessment and gradual change.

Personal Application

Izadi applies these principles in her own life by continually practicing self-kindness and using the tools she recommends to her clients. This personal application has not only helped her overcome personal health and weight challenges but also enriched her professional practice.

Recommendations for Tools and Techniques

• Behavioral Maps: Use diagrams to connect feelings, triggers, and behaviors to identify patterns and possible intervention points.
• Self-compassion Journaling: Maintain a journal to practice gratitude and self-compassion, reinforcing positive self-talk.
• Mindfulness Meditation: Regularly practice mindfulness meditation to enhance self-awareness and reduce reactive behaviors to emotional triggers.

Conclusion

Shahroo Izadi's episode on behavior change through kindness offers a compelling look at how self-compassion can drive profound and lasting changes. Her unique approach, combining professional expertise with personal experience, provides valuable lessons on the power of kindness in overcoming personal challenges and achieving goals.