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Inspiration and references behind The Inner Game

The Inner Game is built on a rich foundation of psychological research, coaching methodologies, and timeless wisdom. While the concept is uniquely our own, it draws inspiration from a wide range of sources including scientific studies, therapeutic models, and transformational books.

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We’ve studied the work of psychologists, authors, and thought leaders who explore the inner world of thoughts, emotions, and behavior. From cognitive science to creative visualization, from mindfulness to mindset theory, each influence has shaped the tools and insights we’ve woven into The Inner Game.

 

Below you’ll find a list of academic references and books that have informed and inspired our approach. We also share suggestions for podcasts in case you want to further explore the topic of self-sabotage, mindset and mindfulness. 

Academic references

  • Beck, A. T. (1976). Cognitive therapy and the emotional disorders. International Universities Press.

  • Brinthaupt, T. M., Hein, M. B., & Kramer, T. E. (2009). The self-talk scale: Development, factor analysis, and validation. Journal of Personality Assessment, 91(1), 82–92. https://doi.org/10.1080/00223890802484498

  • Gilbert, P. (2005). Compassion: Conceptualisations, research and use in psychotherapy. Routledge.

  • Gu, J., Strauss, C., Bond, R., & Cavanagh, K. (2015). How do mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction improve mental health and wellbeing? A systematic review and meta-analysis of mediation studies. Clinical Psychology Review, 37, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2015.01.006

  • Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (1999). Acceptance and commitment therapy: An experiential approach to behavior change. Guilford Press.

  • Neff, K. D. (2003). Self-compassion: An alternative conceptualization of a healthy attitude toward oneself. Self and Identity, 2(2), 85–101. https://doi.org/10.1080/15298860309032

  • Schwartz, R. C. (2001). Introduction to the Internal Family Systems model. Trailheads Publications.

  • Segal, Z. V., Williams, J. M. G., & Teasdale, J. D. (2002). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for depression: A new approach to preventing relapse. Guilford Press.

  • Young, J. E., Klosko, J. S., & Weishaar, M. E. (2003). Schema therapy: A practitioner’s guide. Guilford Press.

Book references

  • Berne, E. (1964). Games people play: The psychology of human relationships. Grove Press.

  • Berne, E. (1972). What do you say after you say hello? The psychology of human destiny. Grove Press.

  • Brach, T. (2003). Radical acceptance: Embracing your life with the heart of a Buddha. Bantam.

  • Brach, T. (2019). Radical compassion: Learning to love yourself and your world with the practice of RAIN. Viking.

  • Cameron, J. (1992). The artist’s way: A spiritual path to higher creativity. TarcherPerigee.

  • Carson, R. (2003). Taming your gremlin: A surprisingly simple method for getting out of your own way (Revised ed.). Harper.

  • Charmine, S. (2012). Positive intelligence: Why only 20% of teams and individuals achieve their true potential and how you can achieve yours. Greenleaf Book Group Press.

  • David, S. (2016). Emotional agility: Get unstuck, embrace change, and thrive in work and life. Avery.

  • Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.

  • Gawain, S. (2002). Creative visualization: Use the power of your imagination to create what you want in your life. New World Library.

  • Hendrix, H., & Hunt, H. L. (2008). Getting the love you want: A guide for couples (20th anniversary ed.). St. Martin’s Griffin.

  • Hendricks, G. (2010). The big leap: Conquer your hidden fear and take life to the next level. HarperOne.

  • Hill, N. (1937). Think and grow rich. The Ralston Society.

  • Kegan, R., & Lahey, L. L. (2009). Immunity to change: How to overcome it and unlock the potential in yourself and your organization. Harvard Business Press.

  • Mohr, T. (2014). Playing big: Practical wisdom for women who want to speak up, create, and lead. Penguin.

  • Pressfield, S. (2002). The war of art: Break through the blocks and win your inner creative battles. Black Irish Entertainment.

  • Schwartz, R. C. (2001). Introduction to the Internal Family Systems model. Trailheads Publications.

  • Whitworth, L., Kimsey-House, H., Kimsey-House, K., & Sandahl, P. (2007). Co-active coaching: New skills for coaching people toward success in work and life (2nd ed.). Davies-Black Publishing.

  • Wiest, B. (2020). The mountain is you: Transforming self-sabotage into self-mastery. Thought Catalog Books.

Podcasts we follow
for inspiration

While these podcast episodes were not used in the creation of The Inner Game, we regularly turn to them to stay sharp, inspired, and informed. They help us stay connected to the latest thinking on mindset, mindfulness, emotional wellbeing, and the inner patterns that shape behavior.

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We’ve selected a few standout episodes that offer practical insights into topics like self-sabotage, negative self-talk, and personal growth. Whether you’re curious to dig deeper or simply looking for a good listen, we hope you find something here that resonates.

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  • Being Well Podcast: “Self‑Sabotage: Why You Do What You Shouldn’t, and How to Stop”
    Hosts Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest Hanson explore why self-sabotage is a form of internal protection, the identity cost of success, and how working with different parts of ourselves (think IFS-style) can free us 🎧 Listen here 

  • Being Well Podcast: “Stop Sabotaging Yourself” (with Dr. Judy Ho)
    Judy Ho is a clinical neuropsychologist and she breaks down the root causes and cognitive therapy tools to overcome self-sabotaging behaviors 🎧 Listen here

  • Being Well Podcast: “Childhood Trauma, Self‑Sabotage, and Therapy”
    Looks at how early trauma can trigger self-sabotaging loops, and how therapy and internal transformation offer paths forward 🎧 Listen here

  • Project “Ditching the Self‑Sabotage and Mastering Your Mindset”
    A recent episode emphasizing how negative self-talk runs 95% of the time under the surface and how awareness is the first step to rewiring mindset 🎧 Listen here

  • The Verywell Mind Podcast: “Friday Fix: How to Stop Sabotaging Yourself”
    Therapist Amy Morin outlines seven psychological reasons behind self-sabotage and offers concrete awareness-based strategies 🎧 Listen here

  • Mastering Mindfulness Institute with Gina Worful. Explores mindfulness as a tool to build internal trust and awareness ðŸŽ§ Listen here

  • Stop Self‑Sabotage with Pat Pearson. Dedicated entirely to defeating self-sabotaging 🎧 Listen here

  • The Mindset Mentor: e.g., “Why You Self Sabotage And How To Stop” 🎧 Listen here

  • Huberman Lab: “Stop Self‑Sabotage & Win Again” (Episode #407)
    This episode explores how the self image and inner narratives shape mindset, rewiring neural pathways, and practical ways to change self‑limiting behavior.     🎧 Listen here

  • Unlocking Us with Brené Brown: Conversations on vulnerability and self-judgment (e.g., reflecting on how shame and inner criticism operate in her interview with Dr. Gabor Maté). 🎧 Listen here

Podcasts episodes

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© 2025 by THE INNER GAME. Photography Saskia Nuijten

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