Breaking Through Barriers: How to Create Lasting Change in Life and Relationships (Podcast #35)

Breaking Through Barriers:

How to Create Lasting Change in Life and

In this solo episode of The Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner shares insights into the change process, drawn from his experiences as a therapist. He addresses common questions such as, "Why can't I change?" and "Why is this so hard?" and explores why we often feel stuck in life and relationships. Dr. Skinner outlines the four core elements we can change—thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and beliefs—offering practical strategies for creating lasting change. He shares a personal story about overcoming health challenges, emphasizing the importance of preparation, unlearning negative patterns, and adopting new habits. Through concepts like habit stacking and accountability, he provides actionable steps for listeners to create breakthroughs in their personal and relational lives. Dr. Skinner also introduces his Change 2.0 course, encouraging listeners to join him in a transformative journey to start the new year with purpose and clear goals.

Resources Discussed in This Episode:

1. Change 2.0 Course: Dr. Skinner’s online course designed for individuals, couples, and families looking to create sustainable, positive changes in their lives. The course includes goal setting, habit formation, and accountability to foster lasting growth.  
   - Start date: November 2024 (with preparatory sessions in November and December).  
   - Location: [Human Intimacy Change 2.0 Course](https://www.humanintimacy.com/course/change-together).

2. Habit Stacking: A strategy where you build new habits by attaching them to existing positive habits. For example, listening to audiobooks while walking, or flossing right after brushing your teeth.

3. Accountability: Emphasizing the importance of sharing your goals with others—such as family members or in group settings like 12-step programs—to increase your likelihood of success.

4. Journaling and SMART Goals: Tools to increase awareness of your progress and create clear, actionable plans. SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) help you stay focused and on track.

5. Recommended Green Smoothie Recipe:  
   - Ingredients: Spinach, half a banana, frozen mango.  
   - Benefits: Dr. Skinner's favorite healthy breakfast option to fuel positive physical change.

6. Wendy's Apple Pecan Salad: One of Dr. Skinner’s go-to meals for maintaining a healthy diet while creating change in his life.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own change journey, considering what they need to unlearn, how to implement new behaviors, and the importance of changing core beliefs to sustain long-term progress.