Mastering the Mind Game: Turning Your Inner Conflict into Inner Strength

By now, we’ve met your Chimp, seen it panic, and watched it argue with your rational self (aka the Human). But here’s the big question:

What do you actually do with the Chimp?

You can’t ignore it.
You can’t cage it.
And trust me—you can’t out-logic it into silence.

Because the Chimp is fast. Emotional. Protective. And it’s not going anywhere.

But here’s the good news:
You don’t have to fight it.
You just need to learn how to train it—and start building a better inner team.

🧠 Why You Need Your Chimp

Let’s clear this up: the Chimp isn’t your enemy.

It’s the part of your brain that gives you passion, energy, and instinct. It’s the spark that gets you fired up, keeps you safe, and sometimes—even helps you win.

The problem is, an untrained Chimp is like an untrained toddler with a drum set: loud, unpredictable, and slightly destructive.

But a trained Chimp? That’s where the magic happens. It becomes your ally, not your saboteur.

🧍‍♂️ Real Talk from My Journey

As someone who’s blind and navigating a world not built for people like me, my Chimp used to react a lot. It would get defensive, angry, anxious—sometimes all at once.

Whenever I walked into a room, shared my story, or took a risk, my Chimp would yell:

“You’re going to fail.”
“They’re judging you.”
“Stay small. Play it safe.”

But I’ve learned something powerful:
I don’t have to believe everything my Chimp says.
I just have to listen, understand, and then choose how I respond.

And that’s what building a better inner team is all about.

🛠 How to Work With Your Chimp, Not Against It

1. Acknowledge the Chimp Without Judgment

When the Chimp acts up, don’t suppress it. Say,

“Hey, I see you. I know you’re trying to help.”

This shifts your mindset from shame to understanding.

2. Create a Pause Between Trigger and Reaction

When something triggers you, take a breath. Literally. One slow, deep breath creates space for your Human to step in.

3. Give the Chimp a Role

Instead of shutting it down, redirect its energy. Let it fire you up for a speech. Let it fuel your passion—but under your leadership.

4. Feed the Computer Wisely

Your brain’s “Computer” (memory + habits) stores everything. The more often you practice calm, confident responses, the more the Chimp learns new behaviors.

🧘🏽 Your Inner Team in Harmony

This is the art:

• Your Chimp brings emotion.
• Your Human brings reason.
• Your Computer brings structure.

When all three work together, you’re unstoppable.
You stop reacting—and start responding. You stop doubting—and start leading.