Episode 46

How peripheral thinking can shape culture and business with Ben Johnson

Published on: 3rd July, 2024

In this thought-provoking episode, I'm in conversation with entrepreneur and coach Ben Johnson to explore game-changing concepts for business leaders and innovators. Discover the power of peripheral thinking and how it can revolutionize your approach to problem-solving and innovation. Learn about the 'lean mind' technique and why "unlearning" might be the key to your next breakthrough.

Ben shares insights on navigating rapid change while staying true to your core values, and reveals strategies for letting go of limiting beliefs and identities. Whether you're a startup founder, seasoned executive, or aspiring leader, this episode offers practical wisdom to help you thrive in today's fast-paced business landscape.

Key Learnings:

1. Peripheral thinking involves exploring ideas on the margins that may shape mainstream thinking tomorrow.

2. The concept of "lean mind" focuses on simplifying mental processes and letting go of unnecessary baggage.

3. Unlearning is crucial for personal and professional growth, especially when facing rapid changes.

4. Identifying too strongly with professional titles or roles can hinder personal development.

5. Focusing on things that change slowly can provide stability and strategic advantage in fast-changing environments.

6. Clarity of intention and orientation is fundamental for navigating life and business effectively.

7. Awareness of where we're "holding on" can help us let go of unhelpful patterns and beliefs.

8. Reconnecting with our core capabilities and values can lead to more resilient personal and professional lives.

Show Notes with Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction of guest Ben Johnson

00:01:00 - Discussion on the difference between thought and thinking

00:02:00 - Origin of the term "peripheral thinking"

00:05:00 - How peripheral ideas can shape mainstream culture

00:08:30 - The challenge of keeping up with rapid cultural and technological changes

00:13:30 - Introduction to the concept of "lean mind"

00:18:40 - The importance of unlearning for personal growth

00:26:30 - Explanation of the "lean mind" concept

00:31:30 - The role of intention and orientation in personal and professional life

00:36:10 - Discussion on over-identification with professional titles and success

00:42:40 - Example of working with a client on finding freedom and space

00:47:00 - Ben's personal experience of leaving his company and identity challenges

00:51:00 - The importance of reconnecting with core self and capabilities

00:54:00 - Closing thoughts and wrap-up

Get in touch with Sal

If this episode has caught your attention and you wish to learn more, then please contact me.


Get in touch with Ben

If this episode has caught your attention and you wish to learn more, then please see Peripheral Thinking and Ben's podcast

If this episode has caught your attention and you wish to learn more, then please contact me.

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About the Podcast

Mindset, Mood & Movement: Systems Thinking for Founder
Human performance podcast for life and business
Welcome to the Mindset, Mood & Movement Podcast. Your essential resource for founders, freelancers, and business owners looking to optimise their mindset, health, and business success.

Dive deep into the realm of human performance with us as we explore the systemic connections between psychology, emotions, and physical wellbeing, and their profound impact on achieving success and fulfilment in both personal and professional life.

Discover 3 key outcome areas: enhancing performance, redefining fulfilment, and cultivating peace of mind. Join me as I feature guest specialists in various fields, offering invaluable insights and expertise plus mini-episodes where I address specific challenge and provide actionable guidance on overcoming these obstacles.

Each episode is crafted to provide education, tools and strategies for you, whether you're navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship or seeking personal growth in your professional journey. My podcast serves as your ultimate guide to self-improvement and achieving excellence in your endeavours.

Expect to gain practical insights, delve into expert interviews, and receive actionable strategies tailored to the unique needs of small business owners and ambitious individuals striving to make a positive impact on the world.

About your host

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Sal Jefferies

I’m Sal - Human Performance Coach, Educator and Founder.

Everything I coach and teach is what I practice in my life. Mindset work including psychological and emotional development. And for my physical health, I do strength training, fitness and breathing practices. In all areas, I'm constantly learning and always growing.

At mid-life, I'm curious to how we can shape the second half of our life whilst using the latest science and learning's from psychology, emotional regulation and physical health. Over the last 25 years, I have immersed myself in many Eastern influences from philosophy, yoga and meditation. I find in our current world, there's much to learn by combining the latest science with ancient wisdom.

For me, working on the mind is paramount. Also, remaining fit, healthy and curious helps me increase performance, find fulfilment and create peace of mind. I believe this is important both a personal and professional life.

My professional endeavours, which inform my work, include:
Human Performance Coaching (for Founders), Contemporary Psychotherapist, Yoga Teacher, Strength & Conditioning Trainer and Breathwork Trainer. Before this latest chapter of my life, I've been a Photographer, Advertising Exec & Dancer.

When I'm not working, educating or learning, I'll be out with my dogs by the sea in Brighton, UK.