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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.

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.

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