780: Moving From Self-Sabotage to Self-Mastery, with Shirzad Chamine

In this episode of Coaching for Leaders, host Dave Stachowiak welcomes Shirzad Chamine, author of the New York Times bestseller *Positive Intelligence*, to explore the critical shift from self-sabotage to self-mastery. Chamine introduces the concept of the 'inner Jedi'—the wise, calm, and purpose-driven self—versus the 'inner Darth Vader,' represented by ten saboteurs like the Judge, Controller, Stickler, and Hyperachiever. These saboteurs, rooted in childhood survival mechanisms, continue to undermine leaders' performance and well-being in adulthood. The episode emphasizes that overusing our greatest strengths—such as attention to detail or achievement orientation—can turn them into weaknesses. Chamine shares a simple yet powerful 10-second mindfulness practice—rubbing fingertips together with full attention—to activate the brain’s 'sage' region, quiet the saboteurs, and regain mental self-command. This practice, backed by neuroscience, leads to measurable brain rewiring over time, enhancing emotional regulation, focus, and resilience. The conversation concludes with a call to action: take the free Positive Intelligence assessment to identify personal saboteurs and begin cultivating the five sage powers that enable thriving, not just surviving.