Are your thoughts holding you back from doing wise effort? In this episode of The Wise Effort Show, Dr. Diana Hill shares how our thoughts can both facilitate and hinder our efforts. Drawing from ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), contemplative science, and her insights from going on a surf trip with her 16-year-old son and three of his buddies, Dr. Hill provides practical strategies for working with your mind so you can run your life, not let your thoughts control it. Learn about the three Cs of cognitive inflexibility—confirmation, coherence, and compliance effects—and discover how shifting perspectives and breaking mental rules can lead to greater cognitive flexibility. This episode is full of insights to help you step back from your busy thoughts and focus on what truly matters.

In This Episode, We Explore:

• Her Insights from a Surfing Trip
• Cognitive Flexibility: The Three Cs
• Breaking the Rules
• Practical Tips for Cognitive Flexibility

Suggested Next Episode:

Episode 171: Openness Is The New Mindfulness With Jonathan Schooler

Related Resources

Get enhanced show notes for this episode

• Order my book, Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most, and receive special bonus gifts.
• Want to become more psychologically flexible? Take Diana's "Foundations of ACT" course.

Diana's Events

• Reserve your spot in Diana's Costa Rica retreat in 2026!
• See Diana at an upcoming event

Connecting With Diana

• Subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
• Leave a 5-star review on Apple so people like you can find the show.
• Sign up for the free Wise Effort Newsletter.
• Become a Wise Effort member to support the show.
• Follow Diana on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Diana’s website.

Mentioned in this episode:

FLASH SALE: Costa Rica Retreat

For a limited time, get $500 off Diana's Costa Rica Retreat. SPECIAL FLASH SALE UNTIL DECEMBER 1ST. Book today and look forward to an amazing Costa Rica retreat in April 2026.

Diana's Retreat in Costa Rica