The Daily Stoic – Nate Boyer On Developing Perseverance And Asking For Help

Intro

In this episode of “The Daily Stoic,” Nate Boyer, a former Green Beret and NFL player, shares his insights on developing perseverance and the importance of asking for help. He also discusses his involvement in steering Colin Kaepernick towards kneeling during the national anthem. Boyer’s experiences provide valuable lessons on resilience, belief, and the power of dialogue.

Main Takeaways

Developing Perseverance

• Nate Boyer ran the Leadville Ultra Marathon, a 100-mile race, finishing in just under 24 hours.
• He experienced serious doubts about finishing during miles 23 to 38, but felt stronger during miles 62 through 77.
• The human body and mind are capable of so much.
• When doing hard things, the extrapolation can be what kills us, but once the end is in sight, we can be more present.

The Importance of Dialogue

• Nate Boyer steered Colin Kaepernick towards kneeling during the national anthem instead of sitting, and handled it in a classy, smart, and wise way.
• Boyer’s open letter to the Army Times highlighted the importance of listening to different perspectives and engaging in constructive dialogue.
• Kaepernick and Boyer discussed the logistics of the protest and the potential offense it could cause to different groups.
• Flexibility is key in bringing about change, even if it means tweaking your approach.

Beliefs and Identity

• The more your identity is tied up in certain beliefs, the less likely you are to change your mind.
• Belief may not be a choice, but influenced by upbringing and environment.
• Our beliefs are heavily influenced by our upbringing and environment.
• We have some agency in forming our beliefs and changing our assumptions.

Asking for Help and Mental Health

• Stoicism can hinder men from asking for help.
• It’s normal to feel a wide range of emotions, including sadness and depression.
• Acknowledging and talking about emotions is important for optimal functioning and well-being.
• Sharing struggles and insecurities can benefit both oneself and others by reducing feelings of isolation and shame.

Summary

Developing Perseverance

Nate Boyer’s experience running the Leadville Ultra Marathon demonstrates the incredible capabilities of the human body and mind. Despite facing doubts and challenges along the way, Boyer found strength and presence as the finish line came into sight. This highlights the importance of pushing through difficult moments and focusing on the present.

The Importance of Dialogue

Boyer’s involvement in steering Colin Kaepernick towards kneeling during the national anthem showcases the power of constructive dialogue. By engaging in open conversation and considering different perspectives, Boyer and Kaepernick were able to navigate the logistics of the protest and find a gesture that conveyed their message while respecting various viewpoints. This emphasizes the need for flexibility and the willingness to listen in order to bring about meaningful change.

Beliefs and Identity

Boyer’s insights on beliefs and identity shed light on the influence of upbringing and environment. He highlights how our identities can become intertwined with certain beliefs, making it harder for us to change our minds. However, Boyer also emphasizes that we have agency in shaping our beliefs and challenging our assumptions. Questioning our beliefs can give us power over our environment and allow for personal growth.

Asking for Help and Mental Health

Boyer discusses the importance of asking for help and acknowledging our emotions. He notes that stoicism can sometimes hinder men from seeking assistance, but it is crucial to recognize that it is normal to experience a wide range of emotions, including sadness and depression. By sharing struggles and insecurities, we can reduce feelings of isolation and shame, ultimately benefiting both ourselves and others.

Conclusion

Nate Boyer’s experiences and insights offer valuable lessons on perseverance, the power of dialogue, the influence of beliefs, and the importance of asking for help. By pushing through challenges, engaging in constructive conversations, questioning our beliefs, and seeking support when needed, we can navigate life’s obstacles with resilience and growth.