Stanford Professor. Best-Selling Author. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Pioneer. A.E. Bennett Awardee.

Dr. David Burns is a psychiatrist and adjunct professor emeritus in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Stanford University School of Medicine. He is considered to be a pioneer in Cognitive Behavior Therapy — a highly effective, scientifically validated approach to mastering emotions and strengthening mental well-being.

His book, Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy, has sold over four million copies worldwide, and is the most frequently 'prescribed' book for patients of depression by psychiatrists and psychologists in the US and Canada. Dr. Burns has also received numerous awards, including the A. E. Bennett Award for his research on brain chemistry, the Distinguished Contribution to Psychology through the Media Award, and the Outstanding Contributions Award from the National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists.

Thank you for sharing your story. So many lessons! Fairbourne Frye
Wonderful. Thank you so much for your wisdom, time and dedication! Vivienne Dübbert
With unprecedented unemployment rates and people losing their jobs, some people are feeling a sense of lost identity. This topic is very timely. Thanks! May Fellores

In this episode of Intersections, Prof. Hitendra Wadhwa has a conversation with David Burns on the topic “Overcoming Self-Defeating Beliefs”.

Beliefs are powerful forces in life and leadership that can hold us back or propel us forward – and yet, since they are deeply embedded in our psyche, we are often not aware of how they influence us.

“Assert your right to make a few mistakes. If people can’t accept your imperfections, that’s their fault.”

David Burns

The episode “Overcoming Self-Defeating Beliefs” offers key insights on:

What is the role of self-defeating beliefs in eliminating anxiety and depression
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How to manage euphoric highs and depressing lows and practicing learning from failure
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What are the costs and benefits of perfectionism