Wise Work

How to Defuse From Unhelpful Thoughts

October 20, 2025

How to Defuse From Unhelpful Thoughts with Dr. Diana Hill | ACT Psychologist | Leadership Coach | Wise Effort

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I'm Diana!

I'm a clinical psychologist, international trainer, and sought-out speaker on focusing your genius energy

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Are your thoughts holding you back from doing wise effort? In this episode of The Wise Effort Show, Dr. Diana Hill shares how our thoughts can both facilitate and hinder our efforts. Drawing from ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), contemplative science, and her insights from going on a surf trip with her 16-year-old son and three of his buddies, Dr. Hill provides practical strategies for working with your mind so you can run your life, not let your thoughts control it. Learn about the three Cs of cognitive inflexibility—confirmation, coherence, and compliance effects—and discover how shifting perspectives and breaking mental rules can lead to greater cognitive flexibility. This episode is full of insights to help you step back from your busy thoughts and focus on what truly matters.

In This Episode, We Explore:

  • Her Insights from a Surfing Trip
  • Cognitive Flexibility: The Three Cs
  • Breaking the Rules
  • Practical Tips for Cognitive Flexibility

Suggested Next Episode:

Episode 171: Openness Is The New Mindfulness With Jonathan Schooler

About Diana Hill:

Dr. Diana Hill, a modern psychologist, international trainer, and expert on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), is redefining what it means to live with vitality. As a leader in psychological flexibility, she empowers individuals to reclaim and focus their energy in meaningful, sustainable ways. Drawing from the most current psychological research and contemplative practices, Diana bridges science with real-life application to help people cultivate resilience and well-being.

She is the host of the Wise Effort podcast and author of several books, including Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most, I Know I Should Exercise But…, The Self-Compassion Daily Journal, and ACT Daily Journal. Her insights have been featured on NPR, The Wall Street Journal, Mindful, Woman’s World, Real Simple, The Wise Brain Bulletin, and Psychology Today, among others.

Known for her ability to translate complex psychological concepts into practical, actionable steps, Diana makes personal growth accessible and inspiring.

Connect With Diana

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I'm Dr. Diana Hill, your guide to a Wise life

I help you focus your genius energy on the things that matter most!

dear friend,

More about me

Dual roles, separate entities: I provide psychotherapy through Diana Hill, PhD, Psychology Corporation, Inc. (clinical practice) and offer coaching, programs, and retreats through Wise Effort Consulting, Inc. (education/personal development). These are distinct services delivered by separate corporations.

I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Colorado, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) trainer, and sought-out speaker and leadership consultant on Wise Effort. Therapy services are provided exclusively through Diana Hill, PhD, Clinical Psychology, Inc. and are available only to residents of California and Colorado.

Individual and executive consulting, group coaching programs, online courses, webinars, workshops, and retreats are offered worldwide through Wise Effort Consulting, Inc. for educational purposes only and are not psychotherapy or psychological services.

Wise Effort Consulting, Inc. 2025
Photos by Esteban Leyva & Diana Hill

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Wise Effort Consulting, Inc. provides coaching, programs, and retreats for personal and professional growth. These services are educational and are not psychotherapy, psychological assessment, or medical care. Participation does not create a therapist–patient relationship. If you’re seeking therapy, visit our clinical site: Diana Hill, PhD, Clinical Psychology, Inc. In an emergency, call 988 (U.S.), 911, or your local emergency number.

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