Optimal Living Daily - Personal Development and Self-Improvement

Justin Malik

About

Join award-winning audiobook narrator Justin Malik 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 articles from some of the most influential voices in self-help, covering topics like 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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4749 episodes

3880: 7 Little Habits That Can Change Your Life, and How to Form Them by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits

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 3880: Leo Babauta shares seven simple yet powerful habits that can transform your life, starting with foundational practices like positive thinking, single-tasking, and daily exercise. His step-by-step approach to habit formation emphasizes focus, simplicity, and consistency, offering a clear path to lasting personal change. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/7-little-habits-that-can-change-your-life-and-how-to-form-them/ Quotes to ponder: "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit." "Men’s natures are alike, it is their habits that separate them." "If you fail, figure out what went wrong, plan for it, and try again." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Jan 17
3879: Want to Change Something? Start Now, Before You’re Ready by Jeff Goins of Goins Writer on Taking Action

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 3879: Jeff Goins challenges the myth that we need more time, clarity, or resources before we can begin. By acting before you're ready, you not only gain momentum but also discover clarity and build courage along the way, proving that transformation starts with simply choosing to go first. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://goinswriter.com/start/ Quotes to ponder: "You don’t wait for clarity before taking action, you act your way into clarity." "The world is changed not by those who have it figured out, but by those willing to begin." "You don’t need to build an empire. You just need to find a few friends who care." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Jan 16
3878: Never Let Anyone Take You Away From Your Core Daily Disciplines by Carl Pullein on Habit Consistency

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 3878: Carl Pullein emphasizes the power of unwavering daily disciplines in shaping a purposeful and fulfilling life. He argues that when we consistently protect the habits aligned with our values, despite external pressures or temptations, we gain control, build self-respect, and set an inspiring example for others. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.carlpullein.com/blog/never-let-anyone-take-you-away-from-your-core-daily-disciplines/6/6/2018 Quotes to ponder: "Choosing the easy option is the reason you don’t achieve your goals." "When you allow other people to prevent you from doing what is important to you, you are giving other people control of your life." "You need to develop the strength and discipline to do those daily activities that will move you a step closer each day towards where you want to go." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Jan 15
3877: 7 Life Lessons My 1-Year-Old Taught Me While Backpacking Abroad by Adam Baker on Unexpected Wisdom

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 3877: Adam Baker’s journey through Australia and New Zealand with his wife and 1-year-old daughter becomes a masterclass in unexpected wisdom. From embracing uncertainty to rediscovering imagination, his daughter’s innocent perspective reshapes what it means to truly live. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisguillebeau.com/life-lessons-my-1-year-old-taught-me-while-backpacking-abroad/ Quotes to ponder: "She’s not worried about what society will think of her or how she is supposed to act." "I quickly learned that having a baby is a crash course in patience, whether you signed up for it or not." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Jan 14
3876: You Are Protected. No Problems Detected AND Begin Again by Eric Teplitz on Fresh Starts

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 3876: Eric Teplitz invites us to reframe life through two powerful lenses: the possibility that we are inherently safe despite perceived chaos, and the gentle strength of starting over without judgment. By blending introspective philosophy with practical mindfulness, he offers a liberating perspective on how we navigate challenges, both real and imagined, with resilience, compassion, and a playful spirit. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ericteplitz.medium.com/you-are-protected-no-problems-detected-4856ed87f95d & https://ericteplitz.medium.com/begin-again-78462ac2de7b Quotes to ponder: “When you feel you have betrayed yourself in some way by not following through on your higher intentions, gently and lovingly collect yourself, redirect yourself, and… Begin again.” “Compassion and forgiveness can actually be cultivated through silent practice.” “If you knew that it wasn’t ‘real’ (and therefore, didn’t ‘matter’), how seriously would you take it?” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13m
Jan 13
3875: On Living in Caves and Fighting Distractions by Maneesh Sethi with The Minimalists on Deep Focus

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 3875: Maneesh Sethi explores how eliminating modern distractions and radically shifting his environment unlocked levels of focus he didn’t know he had. By living in a cave without technology, he discovered that productivity, clarity, and purpose aren't about willpower, they're about creating the right context. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.theminimalists.com/maneesh/ Quotes to ponder: "Minimalism, at its root, is more than just throwing away everything that you own. It’s about learning to thrive, not survive, but thrive, regardless of your circumstances." "Success isn’t about being 'on' all the time, it’s about focusing for intense bursts of time, and then disengaging." "You have to create a self-reinforcing context that makes it impossible to fail." Episode references: Eben Pagan - The Snacking Society (via GetAltitude archive): https://ebenpagantraining.com Seneca - Letters from a Stoic: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Stoic-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140442103 Hack The System: https://www.hackthesystem.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8m
Jan 12
3874: How To Be Your Own Guru by Randi Kay of Naturally Randi Kay on Inner Wisdom

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 3874: Randi Kay offers a refreshing reminder that the answers we seek for personal growth and healing often already exist within us. By revisiting what we’ve learned, the tools we’ve collected, and the wisdom we’ve gained, we can reclaim our inner guidance and break free from the constant search for the next best thing. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.naturallyrandikay.com/blog/beyourownguru Quotes to ponder: "You know more than you think. And maybe, just maybe, that guru you seek could already be within, just waiting to guide you along." "Stop fooling yourself that all you need is something bigger and better." "Go back to your resources. Refresh. Remind. Repeat." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Jan 11
3873: Why a Gratitude Practice Will Make You Healthier by Karl Staib of Dig to Fly on Positive Mindset

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 3873: Karl Staib shares his deeply personal journey from chronic stress and anxiety to improved health and happiness through a daily gratitude practice. His story underscores how simple habits like journaling can lower stress hormones, improve emotional resilience, and even support physical healing, empowering anyone to build a more positive, energized life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://digtofly.com/why-a-gratitude-practice-will-make-you-healthier/ Quotes to ponder: "When you write your thoughts down it makes it easier to share those thoughts with others." "If I feel the tension in my shoulders, I know I need to slow down and appreciate what I do have in my life." "When I’m focused on what good things I have in my life, then more good things happen to me." Episode references: Robert A. Emmons research on gratitude and cortisol: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/profile/robert_emmons Evidence from Cancer.gov on stress and cancer: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/feelings/stress-fact-sheet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Jan 11
3872: When Adventure Calls by Kat Medina on Embracing the Unknown

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 3872: Kat Medina shares how her craving for adventure once led her to believe purpose could only be found abroad, but a mindset shift helped her rediscover that same sense of awe and clarity in everyday life. By embodying the curiosity, presence, and gratitude of a traveler, she found meaning not in the destination, but in how she chooses to experience the world around her. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.katmedina.com/article?id=calling Quotes to ponder: "It wasn’t necessarily traveling that gave me that sense of knowing and purpose I craved, it was the act of participating in life from a place of openhearted curiosity, presence, and genuine gratitude for all that is." "The joy and aliveness that had previously only come from traveling became ingrained in my daily life." "I would look around me with awe at the new sights and smells, inhaling the present like a much-needed breath of air." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8m
Jan 10
3871: Today Is The First Day of The Rest of Your Life by Bradley Charbonneau of Pass The Sour Cream on Fresh Beginnings

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 3871: Bradley Charbonneau uses a surreal visit to the "National Center for Life Change" to cleverly illustrate the internal debate we face when considering personal transformation. With wit and vulnerability, he shows that while we often wait for permission or direction, the real power to change lies within us all along. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://passthesourcream.com/today-is-the-first-day-of-the-rest-of-your-life/ Quotes to ponder: "I smile to myself at little age joke as I know I’m not THAT old and I have time to make changes in my life so I can become that person I’m supposed to be." "I can make these changes whenever I want." "Nothing is going to come from nothing." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Jan 09
3870: 5 Steps to Letting Go of Expectations by Jennifer of Simply Fiercely on Emotional 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 3870: Jennifer shares a compassionate and practical approach to releasing the grip of expectations, especially when life doesn’t go as planned. With relatable stories and actionable mindset shifts, she guides us through five powerful steps that help us trade frustration for peace, and control for presence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.simplyfiercely.com/5-steps-to-letting-go-of-expectations/ Quotes to ponder: "When I had a moment to calm down and think rationally, I realised my frustration had nothing to do with him and everything to do with my expectations." "You might not be on a date night, but an empty house to yourself? Sounds like the perfect setting for a glass of wine and a good book." "We can never be in complete control of what happens to us, we can only control how we choose to respond to the situation." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8m
Jan 08
3869: It's Winter - Get Out and Enjoy it by Mr. Money Mustache on Embracing Low Temperatures

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 3869: Mr. Money Mustache challenges the modern urge to hibernate through winter, urging us to embrace the cold and rediscover the physical and mental rewards of outdoor movement. With his signature wit, he reframes winter as a season for adventure, resilience, and personal growth, one brisk walk at a time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2014/12/23/its-winter-get-out-and-enjoy-it/ Quotes to ponder: "When you go out in cold and darkness, it is an adventure." "This meditative feeling you have is like hitting the mental reset button." "You stay cozy inside, knitting on the couch or watching a quality series on Netflix, and the winter passes safely by outside your window. And you miss all the benefits she has to offer." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Jan 07
3868: What if it Was Easy? By Angelina Lee of Exploring Plan Be on Flow-Based Living

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 3868: Angelina Lee shares a deceptively simple story about restringing a pair of pants that turns into a powerful metaphor for how we often overcomplicate life’s tasks and underestimate our own abilities. Her gentle insight encourages us to pause, ask “What if it was easy?”, and trust that we may already have everything we need to move forward with confidence and ease. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://exploringplanbe.com/what-if-it-was-easy Quotes to ponder: "What if all the fluff that we deem necessary to prove our experience and ‘know-how’ is superfluous?" "The more we sit with these questions, the more we discover just what we are capable of, if only we believe in our ability and in ourselves." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Jan 06
3867: Stop and Enjoy the Biscuit by Chris Lovett on Savoring Moments

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 3867: Chris Lovett reflects on the beauty of slowing down during a season of minimalism, road trips, and intentional living. His moment of clarity, pausing to truly savor a simple chocolate biscuit, offers a powerful reminder to resist the pull of constant busyness and reclaim presence in the small joys. Quotes to ponder: "Don't let anything get in the way of you just stopping for a moment and enjoying your biscuit." "Even as a minimalist, regular decluttering still needs to happen." Episode references: Chatsworth House: https://www.chatsworth.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8m
Jan 05
3866: 4 Ways to Live Each Day With Intention by Shelley Levitt with LiveHappy on Purposeful Living

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 3866: Shelley Levitt shares four practical shifts she’s made to bring more purpose and clarity to her daily life, from mindful meditation and intentional media consumption to nourishing meals and weekend adventures. Her approach offers an encouraging roadmap for anyone seeking to trade distraction for engagement and live each day with greater meaning. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://livehappy.com/4-ways-to-live-each-day-with-intention/ Quotes to ponder: "Setting intentions can function as a kind of internal North Star, lighting the path to greater fulfillment and life satisfaction." "I think about nourishing myself in ways that will align with my intention to feel more energized." "When people say they don’t have time to meditate, I ask them, how do you have time to not meditate." Episode references: The Food of Morocco: https://www.amazon.com/Food-Morocco-Paula-Wolfert/dp/0061957550 Calm app: https://www.calm.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8m
Jan 04
3865: Mastering Human Relationships by Brian Tracy on Interpersonal Success

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 3865: Brian Tracy reveals that social intelligence, not technical ability, is the biggest driver of success and fulfillment in life. By applying the Law of Indirect Effort, you can dramatically improve your relationships, raise your self-esteem, and unlock greater personal and professional rewards by making others feel valued and respected. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.briantracy.com/blog/personal-success/mastering-human-relationships/ Quotes to ponder: "You get almost everything in your relationships with others more easily by approaching them indirectly rather than directly." "Everything you do to raise the self-esteem of another person raises your own self-esteem at the same time, and in the same measure." "Each time you express a kindness toward another person, your own self-esteem improves." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Jan 04
3864: Nomophobia and the Dream of Productivity: Four Steps Toward Independence by Laura Stack of The Productivity Pro

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 3864: Laura Stack explores the growing dependence on smartphones through the lens of nomophobia, and how it sabotages focus, productivity, and workplace boundaries. She offers four practical strategies to reclaim your autonomy and turn your phone back into a tool rather than a master, helping you regain control, attention, and effectiveness in your daily life. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://theproductivitypro.com/blog/2018/01/nomophobia-and-the-dream-of-productivity-four-steps-toward-independence/ Quotes to ponder: "Nomophobia is a frightening example of what happens when we let our tools become our masters." "Few things require an instant response, especially when you’re working." "You must take control and turn your phone back into a tool serving you." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Jan 03
3863: Mindset Hacks That Will Change Your Life by Mia of She Dreams All Day on Personal Empowerment

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 3863: Mia shares eight transformative mindset hacks designed to help you overcome fear, break through limiting beliefs, and take control of your life. Through simple yet powerful shifts in thought, you'll learn how to redirect your energy, focus on what you can control, and reframe negative patterns to move closer to the life you truly want. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://shedreamsallday.com/mindset-hacks-that-will-change-your-life/ Quotes to ponder: "If you’re not happy about the results you have in your life, you have the power to change everything by simply changing your thoughts." "Write down how you’re feeling right now, and ask yourself what is the thought behind this feeling." "Ask questions that support the results you want in your life." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Jan 02
3862: Stop Making Resolutions (and Just Start) by Jay Harrington of Life And Whim on Consistent Progress

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 3862: Jay Harrington challenges the traditional notion of New Year’s resolutions, urging us to trade empty goal-setting for courageous, imperfect action. Drawing lessons from the bumpy launch of Warby Parker, he reminds us that discomfort is the true price of growth, and the only way forward is to just start. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/first-moments-blog/stop-making-resolutions-just-start Quotes to ponder: "Achievement requires discomfort, but we’re conditioned to avoid discomfort." "The truth is, most of us understand that we have to grind for what we want, but rarely are we willing to pay the price." "There will never be a perfect time to start." Episode references: Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday: https://www.amazon.com/Ego-Enemy-Ryan-Holiday/dp/1591847818 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Jan 01
3861: [Part 2] Use Schema Learning to Be More Persuasive by Tyler Tervooren of Riskology on Practical Psychology

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 3861: Tyler Tervooren reveals how to make your message unforgettable by turning passive listeners into active participants. By tapping into what people already know, prompting them to find their own examples, and challenging them to apply the idea in real life, you create lasting understanding and real persuasion. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.riskology.co/schema-learning/ Quotes to ponder: "Everything is difficult until you find a practical application for it." "You can teach almost anyone the basics of anything, but you’ll take your mission further when you give people real problems to solve." "Mastery comes when you can solve problems you didn’t expect." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 31, 2025
3860: [Part 1] Use Schema Learning to Be More Persuasive by Tyler Tervooren of Riskology on Practical Psychology

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 3860: Tyler Tervooren reveals how schema learning can dramatically improve your ability to explain ideas, teach complex topics, and persuade others. Using simple, relatable examples, he demonstrates why this cognitive shortcut is one of the most effective tools for clear communication and lasting influence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.riskology.co/schema-learning/ Quotes to ponder: "The more distinct pieces of knowledge you have, the more opportunities you have to make connections to new ones." "Connection opportunities are what allow you to learn new concepts faster and recall them easier." "When you’re sharing something new with someone, the more potential connections you can make to something they already know, the better shot they’ll have at retaining it." Episode references: Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Money-Life-Transforming-Relationship/dp/0143115766 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 30, 2025
3859: 11 Resolutions For a Better You - Proven by Science by Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist on Evidence-Based Growth

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 3859: Joshua Becker outlines 11 simple yet powerful science-backed habits that can lead to a more fulfilling and intentional life. From exercising and going outside to giving more and smiling often, each resolution is grounded in research and designed to improve your well-being mentally, emotionally, and even physically. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/better-resolutions/ Quotes to ponder: “Good habits make all the difference.” “Psychologists have scientifically proven that one of the greatest contributing factors to overall happiness in your life is how much gratitude you show.” “Determining to be happy is a productive decision towards achieving it.” Episode references: Get Up, Get Out, Don’t Sit: https://archive.nytimes.com/well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/10/17/get-up-get-out-dont-sit Spending on Doing Promotes More Happiness than Spending on Having: https://www.inderscience.com/info/inarticle.php?artid=55643 Volunteering Time Makes People Feel More Time-Rich: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/volunteering-time_n_1672170 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Dec 29, 2025
3858: Allow Space to Screw It Up by Anthony Ongaro of Break The Twitch on Learning Through Failure

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 3858: Anthony Ongaro reflects on how even joyful disruptions can derail our best habits, yet offer powerful reminders about flexibility and perspective. By allowing space for things to go wrong, we reduce guilt, embrace imperfection, and reconnect more easily with what matters most. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.breakthetwitch.com/allow-space-to-screw-it-up/ Quotes to ponder: "We must allow space in our lives to screw things up." "We can try as hard as possible to get our daily action to look like our long-term vision, but some days we won’t be successful. Life happens." "The last thing we should do is create a guilt-spiral that makes us miserable and makes it even harder to get back on track." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8m
Dec 28, 2025
3857: Will Retirement Be Depressing? by Fritz Gilbert of The Retirement Manifesto on Life After Work

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 3857: Fritz Gilbert sheds light on the emotional challenges many face after leaving the workforce, revealing that retirement can increase the risk of depression, especially for those whose identity is closely tied to their careers. Drawing from research and personal reflection, he outlines how cultivating hobbies, social connections, and a sense of purpose before retiring can significantly boost well-being in this new life chapter. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.theretirementmanifesto.com/will-retirement-be-depressing/ Quotes to ponder: "Be intentional in your retirement planning years, with a focus on incorporating non-financial elements into your plan." "The key to a happier retirement was having ‘multiple selves’, which means hobbies and other activities to keep them busy." "Populate a bucket list of items you’d like to do in retirement. Broaden it to include categories beyond travel. Stretch yourself." Episode references: Ready To Retire? by Lyndsay Green: https://www.amazon.com/Ready-Retire-Spouse-Reality-Retirement/dp/1443440566 Institute of Economic Affairs – Work Longer, Live Healthier: https://iea.org.uk/publications/research/work-longer-live-healthier Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 28, 2025
3856: Learning to Savor the Firsts and the Lasts by Britt with No Sidebar on Appreciating Change

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 3856: Britt explores the often-overlooked power of slowing down to truly savor the pivotal firsts and lasts in life, especially during seasons of major change. With honest reflections on rushing through transitions and the challenge of staying present, she offers a grounded reminder that intentional living isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://nosidebar.com/savor/ Quotes to ponder: “The past is over, and we can’t relive it or change it, no matter how much we wish we could.” “Being too preoccupied with what might happen undermines our ability to enjoy what is actually happening.” “The only thing we can do is be present for whatever firsts and lasts are happening around us every single day.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Dec 27, 2025
3855: What Won't You Have? by Tynan on Conscious Living

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 3855: Tynan explores the power of sacrifice as the true driver behind meaningful progress, arguing that what you won’t have defines your path more than what you want. By consciously giving up comfort, distractions, or even relationships, you make space for focus, excellence, and a life aligned with your real priorities. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://tynan.com/notthat Quotes to ponder: "In the same way that great design is defined by negative space, our true wants, those that we will work towards, are defined by those things that we give up." "If you avoid deciding on what you won’t have, you will end up spinning your wheels constantly. Things will take longer and be harder for you." "Decisions are hard, but can be made slightly easier by realizing that they’re not permanent." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8m
Dec 26, 2025
3854: Find What You Love and Let It Kill You by Mark Manson on Choosing Purpose

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 3854: Mark Manson reflects on the inevitability of death and the messy beauty of choosing a life worth dying for. He challenges the illusion that passion and purpose are painless pursuits, emphasizing that true meaning comes through sacrifice, hardship, and embracing the chaos of the journey. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://markmanson.net/find-what-you-love Quotes to ponder: “Finding the passion and purpose in your life is a trial-by-fire process.” “Try something, pay attention to how it feels, adjust and then try again.” “Doing what you love is not always loving what you do.” Episode references: Post Office by Charles Bukowski: https://www.amazon.com/Post-Office-Novel-Charles-Bukowski/dp/0061177571 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 25, 2025
3853: If You Don’t Use It, You’ll Lose It by Benjamin Hardy on Continuous Growth Habits

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 3853: Benjamin Hardy challenges the myth of fixed personality by revealing how identity, creativity, and motivation are shaped through intentional action. By placing yourself in demanding situations and aligning with a powerful “why,” you create the momentum for deep transformation, internally and externally. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/@benjaminhardy/if-you-dont-use-it-you-ll-lose-it-abe87a3bda94 Quotes to ponder: "Your behavior shapes your identity. You are responsible for who you become." "Action creates inspiration. Forward progress creates motivation." "Put yourself in a situation that demands your greatest behavior. Then watch as a seemingly endless supply of intrinsic motivation and extrinsic help aids you." Episode references: The Cult of Personality Testing: https://www.amazon.com/Cult-Personality-Testing-Miseducate-Mismanage/dp/0743280725 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Dec 24, 2025
3852: When You Become More Aware of Your Emotions, They Can’t Control You as Much by Saskia Macejova

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 3852: Saskia Macejova explores how emotional clarity can transform the way we respond to difficult situations, especially for highly sensitive people. By learning to name and understand our feelings with honesty and curiosity, we gain the power to act with intention instead of reacting from confusion or fear. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://introvertdear.com/news/emotions-hsps-aware/ Quotes to ponder: "The less aware we are of our emotions, the less likely we are to figure out how to best regulate them." "The fear is not you. It’s just you being afraid." "It may take some time to learn how to be honest with yourself and others, but it’s not impossible." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 23, 2025
3851: I Am Not the Center of the Universe by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus with Exile Lifestyle

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 3851: Joshua Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus challenge our default self-centered worldview by exploring how cultural conditioning leads us to believe we’re the center of everything. By consciously stepping outside ourselves and embracing contribution over consumption, we can discover deeper freedom, purpose, and lasting happiness beyond material excess. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://exilelifestyle.com/center-universe/ Quotes to ponder: "Everything in my own immediate experience supports my deep belief that I am the absolute center of the universe,  it’s pretty much the same for all of us." "It’s impossible to feel fulfilled or satisfied if we do not contribute beyond ourselves." "Minimalism is a tool that can help us regain our consciousness and show us that the real point of our lives is not consumption, but to contribute to other people in meaningful ways." Episode references: This Is Water by David Foster Wallace: https://fs.blog/david-foster-wallace-this-is-water/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Dec 22, 2025