Episode 395: Reclaiming a Bad Word: Maybe Selfish Is Good

What does it mean to be "selfish"? For many, the word carries a negative connotation—one of neglecting others for personal gain. But what if being "selfish" was seen as a necessary part of self-care, self-development, and living a deeply fulfilling life? In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling, clinical psychologist and mental health advocate for entrepreneurs and high performers, explores the complex relationship we have with selfishness.  She dives into: How self-care, boundaries, and joy can fuel meaningful service to others. The sacred responsibility we all have to craft and care for our “selves.” Why prioritizing your own needs doesn’t diminish others—it creates abundance. Learn why self-care is not just a personal luxury but a foundational act of love for those around you. If you’re ready to rethink what it means to be “selfish” and craft a life of intentionality and joy, this episode is for you. Explore More:Subscribe to Dr. Sherry’s newsletter at zenfounder.com

Are Psychedelics Right for You? 5 Questions to Ask Before You Begin Psychedelics hold incredible potential for healing, growth, and creativity—but they aren’t for everyone. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling, clinical psychologist and expert on the mental well-being of entrepreneurs and high performers, unpacks the nuanced considerations you need to make before diving into psychedelic-supported therapy. You’ll learn: How to evaluate if you’re ready for the changes psychedelics can bring The importance of intention—whether you’re healing trauma or doing a creative exploration Why personal responsibility is crucial when stepping off traditional medical paths Medical and psychological factors to assess How to choose a safe and qualified guide for your journey Psychedelics are powerful tools that demand careful thought and preparation. This episode offers a balanced perspective on how to approach them with respect, safety, and clarity. Ready to deepen your connection to yourself and the world around you? Contact Dr. Sherry at ZenFounder.com/contact.

Is a Mental Health Day Worth It? Absolutely. Here’s Why. Taking a mental health day might seem like a luxury your team can’t afford—especially for small businesses or startups—but the truth is, the benefits far outweigh the costs. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling explores how intentional mental health days can prevent burnout, build resilience, and foster a stronger, more cohesive team. You'll learn: Five scenarios where mental health days make the biggest impact Budget-friendly ways to design meaningful mental health days How to recognize when your team needs a break and what to do about it Investing in mental well-being isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for the long-term health of your team—and, by extension, your business. Ready to lead with intention? Connect with Dr. Sherry at ZenFounder.com/contact. #mentalhealth #entrepreneurs #leadership #burnout #teamwork #smallbusiness #mindset

Feeling lonely at the top? Being a high performer, your awesomeness could be isolating you. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling discusses the unique loneliness that comes with success and how to find your tribe. You'll learn: How to find your tribe (even if it's uncomfortable) How to overcome the fear of being "too much" Three strategies to create a safe space for your awesomeness to flourish Dr. Sherry Walling is on a mission to help you stop playing small and embrace your awesomeness! Want to connect? Reach out at zenfounder.com/contact Leave a comment below! What are your biggest struggles with feeling lonely at the top? #entrepreneur #loneliness #success #motivation #mindset #community  

Does the constant hustle make you struggle to stay present in your daily life? In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling dives deep into the concept of consciousness, exploring its many layers, and explaining how practices like mindfulness, meditation, and even psychedelic medicine can help you become more aware and present. Episode highlights: Learn how expanding your consciousness can improve your decision-making and creativity. Explore the connection between consciousness and emotional well-being. Practical tips on how to start practicing presence and mindfulness. Whether you aim to sharpen your intuition for better daily decision-making or seek to elevate your capacity for joy, this episode offers valuable insights to support you on this journey. #Consciousness #Mindfulness #Entrepreneurship  

Step into the world of the circus with Dr. Sherry Walling as she explores how this vibrant community offers a sanctuary where quirks and eccentricities are not just accepted, but celebrated.    In this episode, Dr. Walling, an amateur circus artist, delves into the transformative impact of embracing our unique traits and shares how the circus provides a powerful metaphor for life, especially for those who feel like they don't quite fit into traditional molds (hello, entrepreneurs!) If you are near Minneapolis on May 4th, join Dr. Walling in a collective healing experience, where we celebrate all that makes us different! Tickets for the May 4th show at the Luminary Arts Center are available now. Don't miss out!    Book your tickets: www.touchingtwoworlds.com/integration

As entrepreneurs, we are constantly pushing the limits of what we can do in a day, but what happens when we don’t know how to truly rest and restore?  In this video, Dr. Sherry Walling dives deep into the importance of rest in the cycle of high performance, revealing why it is integral to sustaining long-term productivity and avoiding the pitfalls of burnout. What you'll learn: Misconceptions about rest (and why scrolling on your phone doesn't count.) The psychological and physical benefits of disconnecting, embracing nature, and nurturing your sensory experiences. Overlooked strategies that high performers use to recharge, reset, and integrate restorative rest into your busy life. No more excuses, entrepreneurs. You can't afford not to rest. Turn off your phone, step away from the screen, and embrace truly restorative practices that will help you thrive in business and life.  

Is your mental health treatment compromising your sexual well-being? Discover the nuanced impacts of SSRIs on your sex life and why psilocybin can be a groundbreaking ally in battling depression without diminishing your capacity for joy and pleasure. In this video, we explore: The challenge of depression and anxiety on sexual intimacy. The often overlooked side effects of SSRIs on sexual desire and pleasure. Insights from recent research on psilocybin vs. SSRIs and their effects on sexual experience, and how psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy could revolutionize the sex life of those struggling with depression. For more detailed information and insights, check out the research article: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-49817-4 Let's connect! If you're navigating these challenges and looking for personalized support, reach out at zenfounder.com/contact. We specialize in helping high-.performers thrive in both business and personal life.  

In this episode, Dr. Walling explores the fine line between being an emotionally intelligent leader and falling into the trap of people-pleasing.If you are an entrepreneur who is pouring your heart, soul, and intellect into your work, recognizing the signs of people-pleasing and taking steps to maintain your inner compass is vital. So, where do we draw the line between being a considerate leader and compromising our well-being for others' approval?Listen to the episode to discover 5 key signs that you are a people-pleasing leader and how that affects your company's future. Are you feeling lost in the hustle, unsure of who you are in the middle of the demands of leadership? As one of the world's only clinical psychologists focused on the mental health of entrepreneurs, Dr. Sherry Walling blends elite research training, extensive psychotherapy experience, and firsthand entrepreneurial insight to support you. Connect with us at zenfounder.com/contact for personalized support.

Are you and your partner finding yourselves stuck in the same cycle of conflicts and misunderstandings, no matter how hard you try to break free? In today's video, Dr. Walling delves into the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy for couples, especially those in the entrepreneurial space who may find their relationships challenged by the unique pressures of their lifestyle. She explores how substances like MDMA can offer a profound opportunity for couples to reconnect, communicate more effectively, and heal longstanding issues by fostering an environment of empathy, trust, and understanding. Throughout this video, we'll discuss: The science behind MDMA-assisted psychotherapy and how it can lower defenses, allowing for deeper emotional connections. Benefits for couples, including those with a history of conflict or those simply seeking to deepen their bond. The importance of professional guidance in navigating this therapeutic journey. The current legal landscape and research status of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy in the US At ZenFounder, we understand the complexities of balancing a relationship with entrepreneurial demands. If you're looking to explore new avenues to enhance your relationship, reach out to ZenFounder for a consultation. Let's work together to bring touch, love, and deeper connection back into your life