WELL 38 — The Practice of Self-Leadership and Emotional Mastery
Quarter: Winter
Instructor(s): Patty Purpur de Vries
Date(s): Jan 21—Feb 25
Class Recording Available: Yes
Class Meeting Day: Thursdays
Grade Restriction: NGR only; no credit/letter grade
Class Meeting Time: 6:00—7:30 pm (PT)
Tuition: $380
Refund Deadline: Jan 23
Unit(s): 0
Enrollment Limit: 45
Status: Registration opens Nov 30, 8:30 am (PT)
Quarter: Winter
Day: Thursdays
Duration: 6 weeks
Time: 6:00—7:30 pm (PT)
Date(s): Jan 21—Feb 25
Unit(s): 0
Tuition: $380
Refund Deadline: Jan 23
Instructor(s): Patty Purpur de Vries
Grade Restriction: NGR only; no credit/letter grade
Enrollment Limit: 45
Recording Available: Yes
Status: Registration opens Nov 30, 8:30 am (PT)
We each face defining tests every day as we navigate uncertainty and make consequential decisions with imperfect information. In these situations, the unconscious mind often outpaces conscious reasoning, narrowing perception and shaping influence before a word is spoken. Drawing on psychology and neuroscience, this course reveals how these hidden dynamics drive our decisions, beliefs, and behaviors. It also shows how understanding them can unlock steadiness, resilience, and sharper judgment under pressure. You’ll begin by learning to recognize what’s happening internally as you navigate everyday demands—from automatic thought patterns to physical stress responses. Building on that foundation, we’ll examine how attention and belief shape behavior in high-stakes contexts. Then, through applied frameworks and experiential exercises, students will test neuroscience-informed tools against real challenges, including conflict, consequential decisions, and sustaining focus over time. You’ll leave with a practical, evidence-based approach to living with more clarity, composure, and impact.
PATTY PURPUR DE VRIES
Chief Experience Officer, Living Well USA
Patty Purpur de Vries specializes in neuroliteracy, leadership, and well-being, and she is also a nine-time NCAA All-American in track and field. She received a BA in psychology from Stanford and an MS in wellness and health promotion management from Nebraska Methodist College. She is the author of two books: The Soft Side of Success and Living Well Within. She previously directed several wellness initiatives at Stanford while working with BeWell, HealthySteps to Wellness, and WellMD. Textbooks for this course:
There are no required textbooks; however, some fee-based online readings may be assigned.