Optimal Living Daily - Personal Development and Self-Improvement

Justin Malik

About

Join award-winning audiobook narrator in this personal growth accelerator, delivering bite-sized episodes each day that are rich with wisdom and practical advice. Optimal Living Daily features a carefully selected mix of blog posts from some of the most influential voices in self-help, covering a wide array of topics such as minimalism, productivity, mental health, and personal development. Each episode is thoughtfully narrated to not only inform but also inspire you to make meaningful changes in your life.
Whether you're seeking motivation, clarity, or strategies to enhance your daily life, Optimal Living Daily is your go-to source for personal development. It’s not just a podcast; it’s a daily habit that empowers you to live your best life, one insightful and uplifting episode at a time. Dive into episodes that cover the essence of self-help, minimalism, and self-improvement, offering actionable steps to foster personal development.
This podcast is designed for those passionate about personal development and minimalism, looking to integrate self-help strategies and self-improvement techniques into their daily routines. By focusing on personal development, each episode provides you with the tools needed for self-improvement and minimalism, transforming your life with every listen.
Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...

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4307 episodes

3438: Place as a Life Hack by Ryan Frederick of Here.life on Physical and Mental Wellbeing

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3438 Ryan Frederick highlights how our environment can serve as a powerful life hack, influencing longevity, health, and financial well-being. By choosing or modifying our place - whether through social connections, active lifestyles, or financial decisions - we can create habits that yield exponential benefits over time. Small tweaks to our surroundings can significantly enhance our quality of life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.here.life/blog/place-as-a-life-hack Quotes to ponder: "Place has both direct and indirect impacts on a person’s life. The best place elevates the elements of well-being, including purpose, social connection, physical well-being, and financial well-being." "What starts as a small win or a minor setback accumulates into something much more." "It may be that the biggest life hack is hidden in plain sight, it’s your home." Episode references: Thinking Fast and Slow: https://www.amazon.com/Thinking-Fast-Slow-Daniel-Kahneman/dp/0374533555 The Power of Habit: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/081298160X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 26
3437: Giving the Gift of Christmas by Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist on Generosity, Forgiveness, and Intentional Kindness

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3437: Joshua Becker explores the profound themes of Christmas love, joy, peace, hope, reconciliation, and goodwill emphasizing that the greatest gifts we can give are often the ones we most long to receive. Through acts of generosity, forgiveness, and intentional kindness, he reminds us how we can transform not just our holidays, but our lives, by embodying the true spirit of giving. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/giving-the-gift-of-christmas/ Quotes to ponder: “You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.” “The things we most want to receive are often the very things we should be giving first.” “See the good in others. Believe in their greatest potential. And encourage often.” Episode references: Kahlil Gibran's "The Prophet": https://www.amazon.com/Prophet-Kahlil-Gibran/dp/0394404289 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 25
3436: This is KEY to Crafting the Life You Want by Krista O'Reilly-Davi-Digui on Personal Development

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3436: Krista O'Reilly Davi-Dagui reminds us that crafting a meaningful life begins with showing up and doing the work, even imperfectly. She challenges us to embrace small, deliberate actions, resist comparison, and find strength in the messy process of growth. This heartfelt message inspires intentional living, offering practical wisdom for building the life you truly want. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.alifeinprogress.ca/the-life-you-want/ Quotes to ponder: "How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives." "Whatever it is that you most desire, do the work." "Practice. Work at your craft or pick away at your dreams. When you grow tired, learn to rest and not quit." Episode references: Bird by Bird: https://www.amazon.com/Bird-Some-Instructions-Writing-Life/dp/0385480016 The Power of Now: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12m
Dec 24
3435: Why I'm Wrong About Everything (And So Are You) by Mark Manson on Personal Growth and Development

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3435: Mark Manson delves into the liberating realization that everyone is wrong about almost everything. He explores how embracing uncertainty and doubt can help us grow, fostering humility and resilience in a world full of contradictions and complexities. Discover why questioning your beliefs is essential for meaningful change and personal development. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://markmanson.net/wrong-about-everything Quotes to ponder: "Certainty is the enemy of growth. It stifles the possibility of learning and discovery." "Understanding the limits of your knowledge is the first step to gaining real wisdom." "Admitting you're wrong isn't a weakness; it's an opportunity to be better." Episode references: Everything Is Fcked: A Book About Hope: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062888439 Skeptic Magazine: https://www.skeptic.com The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062457713 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12m
Dec 23
3434: The Dangers of Self-Improvement: Why Most New Year's Resolutions Don't Work by Vironika Tugaleva

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3434: Vironika Tugaleva challenges the typical approach to New Year’s resolutions, highlighting the dangers of self-improvement when rooted in self-hatred rather than self-acceptance. By cultivating trust in your natural ability to care for yourself, growth can become a joyful journey of self-discovery rather than a punishing cycle of forced change and self-sabotage. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.vironika.org/dangers-self-improvement-new-years-resolutions/ Quotes to ponder: “Self-improvement without self-love is like building a house upon quicksand. You can build and build, but it will always sink.” “If I trust that, in my natural state, I am already compelled to be healthy and good to myself, then I’ll accept myself as I am.” “To change your impulses, you must re-arrange your environment to better meet your emotional needs.” Episode references: The Love Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/Love-Mindset-Unconventional-Healing-Happiness/dp/0992046807 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 22
3433: Strength and the Blender Bottle: A Modern Tale of Intention and Power by Stella Kaufman with Mark Fisher Fitness

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3433: Stella Kaufman shares a transformative tale about how a small shift in effort and intention like shaking a blender bottle harder can unlock untapped strength and capability. She reveals how applying this principle of intention can help you access your power both physically and mentally, creating a ripple effect of growth in every aspect of life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://markfisherfitness.com/strength-blender-bottle-modern-tale/ Quotes to ponder: "How we do one thing is how we do everything." "Your mind and body are connected. Your thoughts and your abilities are magically linked." "Tapping into your intention acts like a boost that makes your strength transferable, kind of like a flow that is present mentally and physically, in all you do." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13m
Dec 22
3432: Four Steps to Building a Better Future (For Yourself) AND “Go Be Great” - A Mindset Map For Growth by Bret Gornik & Jason Loebig

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3432 Bret Gornik and Jason Loebig outline a practical framework for building a better future by focusing on daily, actionable steps. They emphasize making incremental improvements, preparing for challenges, and measuring success beyond material wealth, while encouraging a resilient mindset and passion for growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://livebetterco.org/four-steps-to-building-a-better-future-for-yourself/ & https://livebetterco.org/go-be-great-a-mindset-map-for-growth/ Quotes to ponder: "It is consistently building the 'best day ever' so that you may repeat it." "Make the next best choice available." "Be so good they can’t ignore you." Episode references: The Most Important Question of Your Life by Mark Manson: https://markmanson.net/question Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 21
3431: 5 Tips for Better Mental Health this Holiday Season AND Celebrate the Season with Live Happy’s Holiday Happy Acts

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3431: Paul Fitzgerald shares five practical tips to maintain mental health during the holidays, emphasizing the importance of meaningful connections, minimizing digital distractions, and reflecting on personal values. He encourages readers to focus on activities and relationships that truly bring joy while carving out time for self-care and recharging. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://livehappy.com/mindset/5-tips-mental-health-holiday-season Quotes to ponder: "Social connections are good for your mental health. Share the important moments and stories of your year." "Not all social connections are good for your mental health. Don’t be afraid to let this guide whom you spend meaningful time with." "Spend some time reflecting on what is important to you at this time of year. How can you express your values, what will be meaningful, what is your way of acknowledging the end of the year?" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 20
3430: So This is Christmas - and How Are You by David Cain of Raptitude on Self-Awareness and Authenticity

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3430: David Cain invites readers to use the reflective nature of the holiday season to genuinely ask themselves, "How are you?" Amid the chaos of year-end responsibilities and festive expectations, he encourages honest self-assessment and connection with what truly matters, offering a refreshing perspective on prioritizing self-awareness and authenticity. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.raptitude.com/2010/12/so-this-is-christmas-and-how-are-you/ Quotes to ponder: "It’s Christmas time, and even though the holiday season is lauded as a time of giving and thinking about others, it’s also a time when people end up thinking about the state of their own lives." "With all the festivities and expectations of Christmas, sometimes we don’t have a place where we feel comfortable saying so." "Welcome to the end of the year. It’s a natural time to look at who you are, where you’re headed, and what you’ve been up to all this time." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 19
3429: Give The Present Of Presence by Randi Kay of NaturallyRandiKay on Intentional Relationships

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3429: Randi Kay reflects on the importance of being truly present with loved ones, especially during the holiday season. By reducing distractions like phone usage, we create space for meaningful connections and discover the profound impact of undivided attention. Her insights inspire us to nurture intentional relationships over mindless habits. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.naturallyrandikay.com/post/presentofpresence Quotes to ponder: “The more connected we are, the more disconnected we are from the people that matter the most.” “Try to think of a time where someone was truly present with you. How did it make you feel?” “To me, there is nothing more amazing than pure, deep connection. I love it.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Dec 18
3428: The Habits of Happiness by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on Kindness, Gratitude, and Presence

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3428: Leo Babauta reveals how small, intentional actions can transform your day and your relationships. By offering kindness, gratitude, and presence, you can brighten someone's world while nurturing your own joy and fulfillment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/brighten/ Quotes to ponder: "Your small actions have a ripple effect that brightens the world around you." "A kind word, a small gift, a moment of your attention - all of these can make someone's day better." "Presence is a gift we often underestimate, but it creates deep human connection." Episode references: The Power of Now: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808 The Art of Happiness: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Happiness-10th-Anniversary-Handbook/dp/1594488894 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Dec 17
3427: The Quick Guide to Real Self Care During the Holidays by Josie Michelle Davis on Mental Wellbeing

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3427: Josie Michelle Davis emphasizes the true essence of self-care, which goes beyond trendy indulgences to focus on actions that genuinely recharge, avoid harm, and enrich our lives. From journaling to mindful exercise, her practical guidelines help navigate holiday stress and ensure self-care aligns with long-term well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://josiemichelledavis.com/blog/2019/12/10/self-care-for-the-holidays/ Quotes to ponder: "Self care can, and should, be different from person to person." "Stealing from your future self to make your current self happy is sabotage, plain and simple." "Sometimes self care doesn’t feel great in the moment, but leaves you with lasting benefits." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Dec 16
3426: 9 Things to Do on Sunday to Prepare for the Week Ahead by Julianna Poplin on Planning Advice

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3426: Julianna Poplin outlines a thoughtful Sunday routine to ease Monday blues and set a positive tone for the week ahead. From self-reflection and organizing goals to indulging in self-care and preparing your wardrobe, her practical tips make Sunday a chance to recharge and prepare for a productive, enjoyable week. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.thesimplicityhabit.com/things-to-do-on-sunday-to-prepare-for-week/ Quotes to ponder: "By asking yourself a few questions, you’ll be better able to pinpoint what to take from the week and what lessons to learn." "Taking the time to slow down and quiet your mind and focus your thoughts is very beneficial." "Doing activities you enjoy will help you reset your brain and feel ready to take on the week ahead." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12m
Dec 15
3425: Stop Measuring Your Purchases in Dollars by Charlie Brown on Value of Time vs Money

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3425: Charlie Brown challenges the way we perceive the cost of our purchases, urging us to measure value in terms of time rather than dollars. By recalibrating this perspective, he offers a profound framework for aligning spending with what truly matters in life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://themakingofamillionaire.com/stop-measuring-your-purchases-in-dollars-6523660e4527 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 15
3424: How to Break the Cycle of Self-Criticism by Rachel Shanken of MindBodyWise on Mindfulness

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3424: Discover Rachel Shanken's transformative guide to breaking free from the cycle of self-criticism. Learn practical strategies to foster self-compassion, leverage the power of mindfulness, and reshape your mindset to lead a more joyful, fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mindbodywise.com/blog/break-cycle-self-criticism/ Quotes to ponder: "Your brain is malleable. It’s important to remember that no matter what you’re facing or where you are in your life, your brain has qualities of 'neuroplasticity' which means that, with effort, you can train and remold it." "By allowing this cycle to continue, with little consciousness and effort to change it, you keep yourself from living a full, fulfilling, joyful life." "With committed action, there’s freedom from this painful cycle." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 14
3423: Habits Can Make You Stupid And Then Kill You by James Altucher on Creativity and Happiness

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3423: James Altucher challenges the habit-driven productivity mindset, arguing that rigid routines can dull our senses, limit growth, and even harm our health. Instead, he emphasizes the power of variety, spontaneity, and being present to unlock creativity, intelligence, and vitality. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jamesaltucher.com/blog/habits-make-stupid/ Quotes to ponder: "Being present in every new moment forces the universe to deliver up a new experience on your plate of life." "If you do the same thing every day, the brain shuts down during those activities, and it feels like just seconds have gone by when you think about it later." "To live long, to be smart, to live healthy, to have fun variety should be the spice of life." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 13
3422: Your 200 Year Plan: Your Legacy by Joel of 5AM Joel on Personal Development

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3422: Joel's story reflects on the profound impact of considering your legacy, both the one you've inherited and the one you're building for the future. By thinking beyond typical timeframes, like 5- or 10-year plans, he emphasizes the value of small, consistent contributions to make a lasting difference in the world. The message is clear: your purpose and legacy unfold over time, and it's the daily efforts that shape how you'll be remembered. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://5amjoel.com/legacy/ Quotes to ponder: "It doesn’t have to be HUGE: Big or small, a difference is a difference." "Legacy is built slowly over time: Little by little, day by day, I’m trying to better myself." "Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you." Episode references: WK Kellogg Foundation: https://www.wkkf.org The Power of Now: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 12
3421: Kindsight by Eric Teplitz on Self Compassion, Personal Growth and Emotional Healing

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3421: Eric Teplitz explores the concept of "kindsight," the practice of showing oneself compassion and understanding through the lens of hindsight. By embracing this mindset, you can release past burdens, forgive yourself for perceived mistakes, and cultivate a kinder perspective toward your younger self, allowing for personal growth and emotional healing. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://inspiredlivingblog.wordpress.com/2021/08/31/kindsight/ Quotes to ponder: “Kindsight, to me, is the ability through the gift of hindsight to look back with greater compassion and kindness toward oneself and/or others.” “The wisdom derived from your own lived experiences, combined with the distance provided by the passage of time, can allow you to see through more understanding eyes and a more loving heart.” “We must afford ourselves the same understanding and compassion we would give to any other person we deeply care about that younger version is a different person from the you that you are right now.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Dec 11
3420: Creating Fulfilling Opportunities by Calista Tee with OLD Podcast on Personal Growth and Development

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3420: Calista Tee reveals how to turn life’s challenges into stepping stones with actionable strategies to identify and seize opportunities. Learn how shifting your mindset can transform setbacks into growth, creating a clear path to personal and professional success. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://oldpodcast.com/creating-opportunities/ Quotes to ponder: "Opportunities are often hidden within the challenges we resist the most." "Your mindset is the lens through which you see possibility; adjust it, and the view changes." "Every setback holds a lesson. It’s the bridge to your next success." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 10
3419: 8 Simple Strategies For When You’re Struggling to Declutter by Claire Wilde with Becoming Minimalist

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3419: Claire Wilde shares practical strategies to make decluttering more manageable, reminding us that progress no matter how slow is still a step forward. With tips ranging from breaking tasks into smaller steps to playing decluttering games, she emphasizes the value of self-compassion and perseverance in creating a simpler, more intentional life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/declutter-strategies/ Quotes to ponder: "Progress IS progress - it’s not going backwards or staying the same." "Don’t beat yourself up if you’re not seeing instant results. You might take a while to get to where you need to be. That’s okay." "If you’re bringing less into your home than you are sending out, you’re decluttering." Episode references: Marie Kondo's "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up": https://www.amazon.com/dp/1607747308 The Minimalists: https://www.theminimalists.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 09
3418: Optimism: It’s a Choice by Ellen Burgan of If It Brings You Joy on How To Be Optimistic

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3418: Ellen Burgan emphasizes that optimism is a conscious choice to adopt a positive attitude, leading to a more fulfilling life. She outlines five daily habits to cultivate optimism: slowing down to be mindful, believing in positive outcomes, practicing positive thinking, surrounding oneself with optimistic individuals, and being attuned to one's attitude. By integrating these practices, individuals can enhance their happiness and overall well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ifitbringsyoujoy.com/optimism/ Quotes to ponder: "Optimism is not just cheerfulness for no reason; it’s a conscious decision to live your life choosing to have a positive attitude and expect good things to happen." "Your attitude is essential to your happiness, and research has proven that optimistic people are happier." "Believe and expect good things to come." Episode references: The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life: https://www.amazon.com/Happiness-Advantage-Positive-Brain-Success/dp/0307591549 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Dec 08
3417: The Problem With (How We Treat) Highly Disciplined People by Dr. Samantha Joel of Luvze

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3417: Highly disciplined individuals often face high expectations from others, leading to overwork and underappreciation despite their visible accomplishments. Dr. Samantha Joel highlights research showing how these expectations ranging from better performance to handling more responsibilities can burden self-controlled people and strain their relationships. The article urges both highly disciplined individuals and those around them to balance expectations with fairness and empathy. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.luvze.com/the-problem-with-how-we-treat-highly-disciplined-people/ Quotes to ponder: "People with high self-control might be left feeling overburdened by their friends, family, and coworkers." "Completing difficult tasks is just as effortful for those with high self-control as it is for those with low self-control." "Although high self-control individuals are happier in their relationships overall, they would be more satisfied still if their partners did not expect so much of them." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13m
Dec 08
3416: Honoring Negative Predictions by Steve Pavlina on How to Make Better Decisions

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3416: Steve Pavlina explores how honoring your negative predictions, especially in situations you've consistently found unfulfilling can enhance clarity and lead to better choices. By decisively rejecting what doesn't work for you, you free up space to discover more fulfilling opportunities and align your actions with your true desires. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2020/01/honoring-negative-predictions/ Quotes to ponder: "When you’ve figured out what you don’t want, stop doing it." "Just say no to what you don’t want, and you’ll have a better chance of getting what you do want." "If you desire clarity, then clarity must become a high value in your life." Episode references: The Minimalists: https://www.theminimalists.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 07
3415: Why (And How) You Must Conquer Perfectionism by Julie Morgenstern on Prioritizing Advice

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3415: Julie Morgenstern explores the concept of perfectionism and its potential to paralyze productivity and rob us of joy. By adopting her MAX-MOD-MIN framework, you can learn to balance high standards with practicality, effectively breaking the cycle of all-or-nothing thinking. This approach empowers you to make deliberate choices about where to focus your effort, freeing you to prioritize what truly matters. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.juliemorgenstern.com/tips-tools-blog/2020/6/23/why-and-how-you-must-conquer-perfectionism Quotes to ponder: "It’s easy to lose perspective and always think you have to do things par excellence." "Perfection is a drive for safety no fear of criticism or wrongdoing." "The muscle is breaking the all-or-nothing thinking that leads to overwork or paralysis, and recognizing you have options." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 06
3414: Learn from Loneliness AND Give Yourself Permission to Breathe by Ali Cornish of Everthrive

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3414: Ali Cornish explores the duality of solitude and loneliness, emphasizing how embracing solitude can foster self-awareness and growth, while unchecked loneliness can lead to emotional and physical challenges. By reframing loneliness as a signal for change and reaching out to others, we can prioritize emotional well-being and rediscover joy. In another piece, she highlights the transformative power of conscious breathing, showing how a single mindful breath can ease anxiety, improve focus, and enhance our sense of presence. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://everthrive.org/blog/2015/10/7/learn-from-loneliness & http://everthrive.org/blog/breathe Quotes to ponder: "Loneliness does not imply alone-ness. We can be lonely even when we are surrounded by people." "Taking one deep breath helps us to consciously pause, reflect, and refocus our perceptions, removing us from the source of anxiety." "Loneliness should be explored and understood before it is banished because it can inform us of behavior patterns that we need to change." Episode references: Death in Venice and Other Tales by Thomas Mann: https://www.amazon.com/Death-Venice-Stories-Signet-Classics/dp/0451526090 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12m
Dec 05
3413: Perseverance (AKA No, It's Not OK To Quit) by Chris Guillebeau on Long-Term Success and Fulfillment

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3413: Chris Guillebeau explores the transformative power of perseverance, emphasizing how persistence, even in the face of setbacks, is key to achieving long-term success and fulfillment. By dissecting examples of personal and professional triumphs, he reveals practical strategies to cultivate resilience and overcome obstacles with determination. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisguillebeau.com/perseverence/ Quotes to ponder: "Perseverance isn’t about being perfect; it’s about continuing when others stop." "Every setback contains a lesson, and every lesson builds a stronger foundation for success." "Persistence transforms aspirations into achievements, one determined step at a time." Episode references: Born For This: How to Find the Work You Were Meant to Do: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1101903988 The Art of Non-Conformity: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0399536108 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Dec 04
3412: My 6 Life Focuses by Colin Wright of Exile Lifestyle on Self-Reliance and Personal Freedom

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3412: Colin Wright's "My Six Life Focuses" distills the essential principles that drive his growth and happiness. By embracing self-reliance, personal freedom, continuous evolution, lifelong learning, value creation, and joy, he outlines a life philosophy that balances achievement with fulfillment. These pillars inspire a holistic approach to living with intention and purpose. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://exilelifestyle.com/6-life-focuses/ Quotes to ponder: "Find what makes you happy and figure out a way to do more of it." "In my mind, personal freedom is the gateway to personal evolution." "Learning more about more makes me happy, and increases my ability to evolve." Episode references: Act Accordingly by Colin Wright: https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Accordingly-Philosophical-Colin-Wright/dp/193879317X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 03
3411: 5 Ways to Live More Intentionally by Anthony Ongaro with No Sidebar on Mindfulness and Alignment

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3411: Anthony Ongaro explores how to escape the trap of constant busyness by practicing intentional living. Discover actionable strategies to realign your priorities, create space for meaningful experiences, and cultivate a life that reflects your core values. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://nosidebar.com/live-intentionally/ Quotes to ponder: "Being busy isn’t the same as being productive or happy. It often just means you’re caught in a cycle of reacting instead of choosing." "Small steps, like saying no more often or being mindful about how you spend your mornings, can create profound changes over time." "Intentional living isn’t about perfection it’s about alignment with what truly matters." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 02
3410: Monday Master Class: How to Use Time Arbitrage to Maximize Your Productivity Profit by Cal Newport

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3410: Cal Newport explores the concept of "time arbitrage" to transform productivity by strategically shifting tasks into focused time blocks. This method helps you leverage your best mental energy for challenging work, reducing stress and maximizing efficiency. Newport's insights provide actionable steps to take control of your schedule and boost your personal and professional growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2008/01/21/monday-master-class-how-to-use-time-arbitrage-to-maximize-your-productivity-profit/ Quotes to ponder: "Time arbitrage is the art of using your hours in a way that maximizes the value you extract from them." "If you want to transform your output, start by transforming your schedule." "By protecting the best hours of your day, you can produce high-quality work in a fraction of the time." Episode references: Deep Work: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12m
Dec 01
3409: Perfectionism Is Pointless, And What To Focus On Instead by Rachel Trotta on Self-Sabotage and Burnout

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3409: Rachel Trotta challenges the notion of perfectionism in health and fitness, emphasizing that striving for perfection often leads to self-sabotage and burnout. Instead, she highlights the importance of being "good enough" most of the time, focusing on consistency, preparation, and realistic goal-setting to achieve sustainable progress. By practicing self-compassion, you can create a positive, upward spiral of long-term success. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://racheltrotta.com/fitness/perfectionism-is-pointless/ Quotes to ponder: “It’s not about being perfect. It’s not about being 100% adherent to a diet or exercise plan.” “Consistency is essential because you are better off making a B+ in your health and fitness goals every day than you are making two A+’s and five F’s each week.” “The goal is to get out of the ‘beat-yourself-up’ and ‘buckle-down’ downward spiral, and into a successful, achieving upward cycle.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12m
Dec 01