The Masks We Wear: Finding Your True Self in a World of Labels with Matt Cartwright

summary

I am joined this week by Psychotherapist, Ordained Interfaith Minister, teacher, author, and former drag queen Matt Cartwright who shares insights on living authentically, the importance of joy and love, and overcoming fear. 

We explore how childhood experiences shape our identities and the patterns we develop, the significance of being present, the power of imagination, and the need for connection and community. 

Matt also reflects on his colorful life journey, the impact of social media on identity, and the importance of living with purpose and values. 

takeaways

• Living authentically means embracing joy and love in every moment.
• Fear is a natural response, but it can be overcome by focusing on possibilities.
• We often repeat patterns instead of addressing the underlying problems.
• Childhood experiences shape our identities and how we perceive ourselves.
• Labels and identities can mask our true selves and hinder authenticity.
• It's essential to focus on who we are being rather than what we are doing.
• Imagination plays a crucial role in creating the life we desire.
• Our responses to life's challenges define our experiences and outcomes.
• Living with purpose and values leads to a more fulfilling life.
• Connection and community are vital for personal growth and healing.

Sound Bites

• "You have to lift it to shift it."
• "Fear is the absence of love."
• "It's either all love or it isn't."

Chapters
00:00
Living a Life of Joy and Love

03:10
The Importance of Connection and Community

05:53
Understanding Fear and Its Impact

08:55
Patterns of Behavior and Self-Perception

11:56
The Masks We Wear: Identity and Authenticity

14:56
The Power of Labels and Collective Identity

17:54
The Journey to Self-Acceptance

21:05
Shifting Focus: From Doing to Being

23:58
The Role of Energy in Our Interactions

26:57
Choosing Our Responses to Fear

30:43
Understanding Stress and Response

32:10
The Importance of Values in Identity

33:42
The Journey of Self-Discovery

39:19
Authenticity and the Influence of Social Media

43:34
The Power of Self-Reflection

48:27
Living with Purpose and Connection

57:53
Finding Balance and Connection with the Divine

guest info

Matt Cartwright is a Psychotherapist, Ordained Interfaith Minister, teacher, author and former drag queen with an enlightening story of personal resilience.

Matt's journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit. He has fought battles against homelessness, addiction, and personal identity crises, emerging victorious and becoming a beacon of resilience and transformation. His story is imbued with an extraordinary passion for helping others overcome their challenges and discover their authentic selves.

Connect with Matt at https://amatterofpractice.com/

Check out his TEDx Talk: We are ALL in Drag: Our Collective Identity Crisis

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To connect with and learn more about me and how I am Remembering to Live, you can find me on Instagram @coreancanty or at coreancanty.com.

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If you are ready to re-imagine, re-claim and re-design your life, book a possibility call today.