How to stop seeking approval from others

How to stop seeking approval from others

Author: SGI-USA December 6, 2021 Duration: 41:40

Consider any situation you’ve found yourself in where you felt like you couldn’t truly be yourself. Have you ever changed your behavior to fit in or impress others?

On this episode, we’re talking with Brandon Poythress, of Dallas, who struggled with exactly that from a young age. When he started practicing SGI Nichiren Buddhism, he quickly discovered he was seeking approval from other people, which, in Buddhism, means you are seeking happiness outside yourself. 

Today we’ll cover how to flip that script and turn inward to find yourself instead.

CHEAT SHEET

1:21 Introduction to Brandon

1:51 Why he started chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo as a teenager 

4:21 How it helped him stop seeking approval from other people

7:42 What it took for him to make good friends

8:38 How he applied Buddhist philosophy to his situation

12:22 How he became comfortable with himself

18:36 What he decided to challenge next

27:34 Brandon’s vision for his 30s, 40s and 50s

32:55 What uncovering your Buddhability really means

37:48 Advice for anyone who feels stuck in a cycle of seeking approval from others


It’s easy to lose sight of our own strength when life gets complicated, but what if that inherent clarity and capability never actually left? Buddhability explores that very idea through the lived experiences of everyday people. Host Cassidy Bradford guides genuine conversations with a community of practicing Buddhists from SGI-USA, who share how they navigate real-world challenges. You’ll hear personal stories that touch on everything from mental resilience and physical well-being to navigating career shifts and personal relationships. This isn’t about abstract theory; it’s a practical look at applying Buddhist principles to uncover a more confident and compassionate way of living. Each episode of the podcast feels like a thoughtful dialogue, focusing on how to reconnect with that inner resourcefulness-your Buddhability-amidst the stress and clutter of modern life. The discussions are grounded in the belief that enlightenment isn’t a distant goal, but a potential we can all access right now to improve our own lives and positively impact the world around us. Tune in for honest reflections and discover how this perspective can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 244

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