Accepting Normal

Accepting and understanding the concept of "normal" is explored in various contexts through different expert insights:

1. Jay Williams shares his journey of acceptance after a career-ending accident. He talks about coming to terms with constant reminders of his injury and eventual acceptance of his new reality. This acceptance came after failed attempts to return to the NBA and subsequent depression, indicating a challenging path to embracing a "new normal" 1.

2. Forrest Hanson discusses embracing ordinariness to avoid constant comparison and unrealistic expectations. He emphasizes accepting our unique yet ordinary nature, which helps mitigate the pressure of constant achievement and fosters healthier self-esteem 2.

3. Dr. Gabor Mate challenges the societal notion of normal through multiple lenses:

   • Mate highlights that what is considered normal in society—such as selfishness and competitiveness—is actually abnormal from an evolutionary standpoint and harmful to human health and relationships 3.
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       1

       Accepting New Normals

       00:14:10
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       2

       Embracing Ordinariness

       01:00:53
       
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       3

       Rethinking Normalcy

       00:04:06
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       4

       Rethinking Normalcy

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   • He also addresses how perceived normal responses to life circumstances, like trauma, manifest as mental and physical illnesses, advocating for a reevaluation of what society deems normal 4.

These insights demonstrate varied perspectives on accepting and redefining "normal" in both personal and societal contexts.