Optimal Living Daily

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. 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.

Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...

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3132 episodes

3131: Things We Are Never Meant to Know by Ali Cornish of Everthrive on Finding Balance & Embracing Minimalism

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 3131: Ali Cornish of Everthrive.org delves into the intricacies of navigating through the overwhelming abundance of choices in modern life, from existentialist thought to the aisles of a grocery store. She offers a reflective exploration of finding balance, embracing minimalism, and the importance of approaching life with a specific agenda to mitigate stress and excess. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://everthrive.org/blog/2019/5/2/things-we-are-never-meant-to-know Quotes to ponder: "Recognizing if it causes you to buy more than you need or causes extra stress, well, then maybe it’s something to consider." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Apr 01
3130: Happiness Is All in Your Mind by Paula Felps with Live Happy on Transformative Power of Creativity

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 3130: In "Happiness Is All in Your Mind," Paula Felps delves into the transformative power of creativity on well-being. Through insights from experts and research, Felps argues that engaging in creative activities can lead us to a state of flow, enhancing happiness, and dispelling the myth of the tortured artist. This enlightening piece suggests that everyone has the potential to harness creativity for a more fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.livehappy.com/self/happiness-is-all-in-your-mind/ Quotes to ponder: "Once those creative juices start flowing, and you’re no longer focusing on your own life or problems, you get into that flow state where you’re working and the positive feelings are being reinforced. It’s a great way to enhance your mood." "We have been brought up to believe that artists are broke and tortured and crazy. When I say, ‘Let’s become an artist, let’s play, let’s get in touch with our inner resources,’ people are frightened. They believe they can’t be happy if they become an artist, but the opposite is true." "Artistic, creative people are solvent, they’re happy; just start working on your creativity and watch what it does for you." Episode references: "Your Creative Brain: Seven Steps to Maximize Imagination, Productivity, and Innovation in Your Life" by Shelley Carson, Ph.D.: https://a.co/d/ezefjsR "The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity" by Julia Cameron: https://a.co/d/0iOirCW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 31
3129: A Simple Act of Kindness by Dr. Allison Niebes-Davis of Dr. Allison Answers on Gestures of Recognition

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 3129: Dr. Allison Niebes-Davis captures the profound yet understated power of kindness in her piece. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates how small gestures of recognition can have a deep impact on our sense of belonging and visibility in the world, urging us to actively notice and appreciate those around us. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drallisonanswers.com/relationships/a-simple-act-of-kindness/ Quotes to ponder: "Feeling seen is like someone saying, 'I notice you. You matter. And you’re worth my attention.'" "A simple act of kindness. So the question is, who are you going to share it with?" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 31
3128: When Resistance Smacks You in the Face by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on Pursuit of Productivity

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 3128: In "When Resistance Smacks You in the Face," Leo Babauta of ZenHabits.net dives into the heart of creative struggle, offering readers a blend of personal insights and practical strategies to combat the inevitable resistance faced in the pursuit of productivity. Babauta's reflection on his own battles against distraction and fear serves as a roadmap for navigating the challenges of remaining dedicated to one's creative endeavors. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/ouch/ Quotes to ponder: "Sit there, and look inside yourself. Just because an urge arises to run doesn’t mean you have to follow it." "Think about who you’re helping. While Resistance is scary, it’s often not nearly as bad as the pain that someone else is facing." "Just get started. Usually all I need to do is get the ball rolling." Episode references: Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2654360/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 30
3127: [Part 2] Stop Feeding Your Brain Mental Garbage by Michael Mehlberg on Better Decision-Making

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 3127: Michael Mehlberg of MichaelMehlberg.com illustrates the profound impact of our mental diet on personal development in "Stop Feeding Your Brain Mental Garbage - Part 2". He emphasizes the necessity of curating the content we consume, from social media to books, to foster better decision-making, enhance our relationships, and achieve our goals. Mehlberg’s insights serve as a crucial reminder of the power we hold over our mental well-being through selective exposure to information. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://michaelmehlberg.com/blog/2019/8/19/stop-feeding-your-brain-mental-garbage Quotes to ponder: "I don’t know the books I read last year any more than the food I ate. Even so, they have changed me." -Mark Twain "Read thoughtless books or listen to thoughtless podcasts and, you guessed it, you’ll think thoughtless thoughts. Do the opposite, and you’ll become the opposite." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 29
3126: [Part 1] Stop Feeding Your Brain Mental Garbage by Michael Mehlberg on Health & 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 3126: Michael Mehlberg shares a visceral story on MichaelMehlberg.com to illustrate a potent message: the content we consume impacts our health and happiness as much as the food and drink we ingest. Through personal anecdotes and psychological research, Mehlberg explains how everything from social media to the books we read can influence our mental well-being, urging readers to be mindful of their daily consumption. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://michaelmehlberg.com/blog/2019/8/19/stop-feeding-your-brain-mental-garbage Quotes to ponder: "When we consume to change ourselves it’s important to ask what we’re changing and why. If there’s nothing inherently wrong with what we’re changing, why do it?" "Garbage in garbage out," they say. In my case, it was wine and cigars; and there was no question as to why." "What We Consume Affects All We Do" Episode references: Power of Positivity: https://www.powerofpositivity.com/ University of California Irvine study on stress and media consumption: https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/media-exposure-mass-violence-can-fuel-cycle-distress-study-shows Psychology Today on unrealistic beauty standards: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/perfect-me/202401/social-media-and-unrealistic-beauty-ideals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 28
3125: The Forge of Life by Steve Pavlina on Purpose & 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 3125: Steve Pavlina explores the metaphor of life as a forge, shaping us through experiences into unique, conscious beings. He challenges the notion of dissolving into unconscious oneness after death, proposing instead that the purpose of life might be to develop a strong, individual consciousness that wishes to continue its journey beyond the mortal realm. Pavlina's insights offer a fresh perspective on personal development and the value of actively participating in shaping one's character. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2015/06/the-forge-of-life/ Quotes to ponder: "We come into this world like blocks of marble, and we’re sculpted by experience." "What if instead of dissolving into the light, the point of life is to develop such a strong individual consciousness that we don’t want to dissolve into unconscious oneness afterwards?" "Embrace the new. I’ve found that when I do this, I have few regrets." Episode references: Tim Freke's official website: https://timfreke.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 27
3124: What Presence Feels Like by Julie Morgenstern on Being Fully Engaged in the Moment

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 3124: Julie Morgenstern's exploration of Africa and her reflections on presence capture the essence of being fully engaged in the moment. Her journey, from meeting inspiring women in Malawi to delivering a workshop in South Africa, emphasizes the profound impact of being present. Through her experiences, Morgenstern outlines how presence can transform our perception, enhance our senses, and deepen our connection to our surroundings. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.juliemorgenstern.com/tips-tools-blog/2019/8/22/name-it-and-bring-it-with-you Quotes to ponder: "We see and experience things when we go to places we’ve never been that simply cannot happen by armchair travel through a Google search." "Simply put, being in 'the moment' means that you are marveling at the newness and presentation before you. You are just reacting, not anticipating or worrying about anything." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 26
3123: How Minimalism Builds Consistency for Personal Growth by Anthony Ongaro of Break the Twitch

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 3123: Anthony Ongaro of Break the Twitch.com shares an enlightening perspective on how minimalism isn't just about decluttering space but a profound tool for personal growth. By embracing minimalism, Ongaro highlights how we can create consistency in our lives, fostering a conducive environment for developing better habits and living more intentionally. This approach not only simplifies life but significantly amplifies our capacity for personal development and achieving our true potential. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.breakthetwitch.com/how-minimalism-builds-consistency-for-personal-growth/ Quotes to ponder: "Minimalism is both an effective tool and one of the best places to start if you know something in your life needs to change." "Consistency is where the magic happens. Small, steady improvements change the entire game." "Minimalism helps reduce the noise, increase our awareness, and save more energy for what’s truly important." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 25
3122: Circle of Invisible Mentors by Joel of 5AM Joel on How to Propel Personal and Professional 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 3122: Joel from 5AM Joel.com explores the transformative power of imaginary mentors in "Circle of Invisible Mentors," inspired by Napoleon Hill's "Think and Grow Rich." By consulting with icons like Richard Branson, Jocko Willink, Elon Musk, and even his future self, Joel demonstrates how envisioning advice from these figures can propel personal and professional growth. This practice, while unconventional, offers a unique strategy for overcoming challenges and achieving success. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://5amjoel.com/mentors/ Quotes to ponder: "The weirdest imaginary mentor that I have is my future self, at 65 years old." Episode references: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 24
3121: The Best Fitness Challenge You Could Ever Take - Focus on What You Can DO by Nia Shanks

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 3121: Dive into Nia Shanks' empowering fitness challenge that shifts the focus from superficial goals to celebrating what your body can accomplish. This transformative approach encourages you to appreciate your strength, technique, and physical abilities, fostering a healthier relationship with fitness and self-confidence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.niashanks.com/fitness-challenge-what-you-can-do/ Quotes to ponder: "Focus on what your body can DO, and Nothing Else." "Remember, this challenge is all about focusing on what you CAN DO." "By focusing on their performance, improved body composition just becomes a wonderful side effect." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 24
3120: Who's Editing Your Life Story? by Dr. Kelly Flanagan on How to Be More Authentic

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 3120: In "Who’s Editing Your Life Story?" by Dr. Kelly Flanagan, readers are invited to reflect on the importance of having a trusted editor in life - not just for writing but for navigating the personal stories we live. Flanagan draws from personal experiences and literary wisdom to argue that embracing our errors with the help of a trusted editor can lead to a more authentic, revised story of our lives, filled with growth, understanding, and deeper human connection. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drkellyflanagan.com/whos-editing-your-life-story/ Quotes to ponder: "Every writer needs an editor. Rough drafts are rough, and writers need another set of eyes to create something beautiful and meaningful." "We need people who will say the hard things, people who will serve up the hard medicine, people for whom we will swallow it because we know they are serving it out of love and caring and respect." Episode references: Father Fiction by Don Miller: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Father-Fiction/Donald-Miller/9781439190531 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12m
Mar 23
3119: The Weight of Emotional Clutter - And 4 Steps to Letting Go by Erica Layne with NoSidebar

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 3119: Erica Layne's article on NoSidebar.com, "The Weight of Emotional Clutter - And 4 Steps to Letting Go," provides a heartfelt examination of the internal narratives that hold us back and offers a methodical approach to decluttering our minds. Layne's personal journey and actionable steps guide readers toward emotional freedom, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and shifting our mental scripts toward positivity and self-love. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://nosidebar.com/the-weight-of-emotional-clutter/ Quotes to ponder: "Emotional clutter is the type of clutter that is the most unseen but has the greatest impact on your happiness and well-being." "Keep yourself shored up by practicing purposeful self-care and remembering that you are whole and beautiful and worthy no matter what." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 22
3118: Do Affirmations Work? How to Effectively Employ Affirmations by Clearing Negative Beliefs by Joel Bein

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 3118: Joel Bein explores the common skepticism surrounding affirmations and reveals their potential inefficacy due to underlying negative beliefs. By sharing his personal journey of overcoming deep-seated doubts, Bein illustrates how confronting and resolving these internal conflicts can empower affirmations, transforming them from self-help clichés into valuable tools for self-improvement. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://joelbein.com/blog-1/2024/01/02/do-affirmations-work-how-to-effectively-employ-affirmations-by-clearing-negative-beliefs/ Quotes to ponder: "Most people have opposing, negative limiting beliefs buried in their subconscious mind. So, adding a positive affirmation on top becomes akin to spraying dog crap with some air freshener." Episode references: "5 Steps to End Negative Self-Talk" guide: https://thehumanliberation.co/OLD/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 21
3117: Tilting My Mirror (Motivation is Delicate) AND Kurt Vonnegut Explains Drama by Derek Sivers

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 3117: Discover the transformative power of subtle changes with Derek Sivers as he shares his personal journey through a challenging mountain drive. His story, "Tilting My Mirror (Motivation is Delicate)," reveals how minor adjustments in our surroundings can significantly impact our motivation and stress levels, encouraging us to take control of our environment for a more fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://sive.rs/tilt & https://sive.rs/drama  Quotes to ponder: "Motivation is delicate. When you notice your motivation fading, you have to seek out the subtle cause." "A simple tweak can make all the difference between achieving something or not." "That little tweak changed everything! Now it feels like I’m almost alone on this gorgeous mountain drive." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 20
3116: Four New Ways to Convert Worry to Confidence by Ingrid Y. Helander on Unlocking Inner Calm

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 3116: The podcast discusses Ingrid Y. Helander's blog post on converting worry to confidence using Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy concepts. It highlights common reactions to worry and presents four new methods to promote emotional well-being and build a strong, confident foundation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ingridyhelanderlmft.com/four-new-ways-to-convert-worry-to-confidence/ Quotes to ponder: "Using Internal Family Systems (or IFS) Therapy concepts, you can actually change the way you react to the parts of your personality that work like a little 'internal family' inside you." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 19
3115: What a Clogged Sink Taught Me About Minimalism by Rose Lounsbury on Decluttering & Simple 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 3115: In this episode of Optimal Living Daily, Justin Malik reads Rose Lounsbury's blog post, "What a Clogged Sink Taught Me About Minimalism." Rose shares her experience of realizing the inconvenience of a slow sink only when forced to share the bathroom with her family during renovations. Drawing parallels to clutter in our lives, Rose highlights how we often become accustomed to living with the burden of clutter, whether physical or mental. The post encourages listeners to consider the immediate benefits of decluttering, emphasizing the positive impact on daily life and well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://roselounsbury.com/clogged-sink-minimalism/ Quotes to ponder: "Eliminating the excess is the easiest way to start living an easier, less stressful life." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 18
3114: The Best Way To Think More Clearly by Dr. Jenny Brockis on Enhancing Cognitive Clarity

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 3114: In this episode of Optimal Living Daily, Justin Malik narrates Dr. Jenny Brockis's blog post, "The Best Way To Think More Clearly." Dr. Brockis emphasizes the positive impact of movement on cognitive function, highlighting studies that reveal increased engagement and effective learning when individuals are on their feet. The post explores the connection between physical activity and mental sharpness, advocating for a shift from sedentary habits to incorporating more movement into daily life. Dr. Brockis provides practical suggestions for integrating movement, ultimately encouraging listeners to prioritize the one thing that can significantly enhance their thinking, learning, and memory: moving more. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.drjennybrockis.com/2017/10/2/best-way-think-clearly/ Quotes to ponder: "Regular exercise has been shown to help us to retain more grey and white matter, assisting the development of cognitive reserve." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 17
3113: Rejecting Consumer Norms Changed My Financial Life Forever by Lisa Harrison of Mad Money Monster

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 3113: In this Minimalist Monday edition, Diania Merriam presents Lisa Harrison's blog post from MadMoneyMonster.com, titled "Rejecting Consumer Norms Changed My Financial Life Forever." Lisa shares her journey of rejecting societal expectations and consumer norms, highlighting the impact it had on her financial life and the shift from embracing to rejecting consumerism. The post emphasizes the importance of redefining success, retraining financial habits, and finding peace in a life of frugality. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://madmoneymonster.com/2018/09/11/rejecting-consumer-norms-changed-my-financial-life-forever/ Quotes to ponder: "Our financial motivation switched from embracing consumer norms to rejecting them in exchange for hefty investing and a more carefree lifestyle." Episode references: The Millionaire Next Door: https://www.amazon.com/Millionaire-Next-Door-Surprising-Americas/dp/1589795474 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 17
3112: Motivation: What It Is, How It Works, and Where to Find It by Mark Manson on Emotional Gamification

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 3112: In this episode, Justin Malik explores Mark Manson's blog post on MarkManson.net titled "Motivation: What It Is, How it Works, and Where to Find It." The episode delves into the misconceptions about motivation, emphasizing the practical aspects of cultivating motivation through action, emotional gamification, and embracing the struggles inherent in pursuing meaningful goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://markmanson.net/motivation Quotes to ponder: "Motivation is not just a feeling. It is a habit, a practice that we need to cultivate in our daily lives." "By focusing on the values and the process, rather than the end goal, you’ll find that motivation becomes a natural side effect of the journey." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12m
Mar 16
3111: The Power of Ridiculously Small Steps by Kendra Adachi with Becoming Minimalist on Developing 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 3111: In this episode, Justin Malik narrates Kendra Adachi's blog post from BecomingMinimalist.com titled "The Power of Ridiculously Small Steps." Kendra shares her struggle with incorporating yoga into her routine and how adopting a ridiculously small step approach transformed her daily habit. The key message is about the effectiveness of embracing small steps to create meaningful habits that align with what truly matters to you. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/ridiculously-small-steps/ Quotes to ponder: "Even if you’re trying to develop habits that support a life you deeply, authentically want, small steps are still your best bet because then you’ll actually move." "Embrace the power of small steps. They matter, they count, and they’re the best way to create habits around what actually matters to you." Episode references: Kendra can be found online at: https://www.thelazygeniuscollective.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 15
3110: 7 Things You Need to Stop Doing Every Day by Marc Chernoff of Marc and Angel on Productivity & Improved 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 3110: Marc Chernoff of MarcAndAngel.com delivers transformative insights in "7 Things You Need to Stop Doing Every Day," exploring how a TO-DON'T list can significantly enhance your life. By advising against unproductive habits like worrying about the wrong people, neglecting the present for the future, and overcommitting, Chernoff guides us towards improved relationships, financial stability, and overall happiness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.marcandangel.com/2013/05/28/7-things-you-need-to-stop-doing-every-day/ Quotes to ponder: "This moment will never happen again. Look around. Cherish your time as you’re living it." "Make time every day to not be busy. Have dedicated downtime moments - clear points in the day to reflect, rest, and recharge." Episode references: Books by Marc & Angel: https://www.marcandangel.com/book/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Mar 14
3109: Simplicity is Not a Destination by Courtney Carver of Be More With Less on Daily Minimalism

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 3109: Courtney Carver's "Simplicity is Not a Destination" explores the misconception that simplicity is a final goal rather than an ongoing journey. Through shared experiences and practical advice, Carver highlights the importance of embracing simplicity as a daily practice, emphasizing that true satisfaction comes from the process itself rather than reaching a particular state of minimalism. This enlightening perspective encourages readers to find joy in simplicity every day, challenging the notion of a definitive endpoint. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://bemorewithless.com/practice/ Quotes to ponder: "Instead of trying to change everything and everyone around you, accept that there is no finish line and no prize for having more or less." "If simplicity is a practice and not a destination, you don’t have to wait to get started. You can measure your success in joy and happiness instead of arrival time and place." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 13
3108: Developing a Routine by Danae Smith of This Wondrous Life on Personal Growth, Intentional Living & Habit Formation

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 3108: Danae Smith of ThisWondrousLife.com shares an insightful exploration into the importance of developing a routine that transcends mere scheduling to foster a culture of intentionality and balance in our lives. Through her personal journey of trying and failing to implement a dream routine amid life's adventures, Smith underscores the transformative power of small, meaningful steps towards cultivating a life that makes room for what truly matters. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://thiswondrouslife.com/twl/define-and-solidify-how-to-find-your-routine Quotes to ponder: "A routine is about making space for you to get your mind, heart, soul, and body right." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 12
3107: 8 Habits to Keep Paper Clutter to a Minimum by Rachel Jones of Nourishing Minimalism

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 3107: Rachel Jones of NourishingMinimalism.com presents a practical guide to minimizing paper clutter in our lives. With actionable tips ranging from dealing with mail immediately to embracing digital options, Jones offers solutions to one of the most common clutter challenges, making it easier to maintain a tidy, less stressful living space. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://nourishingminimalism.com/8-habits-to-keep-paper-clutter-to-a-minimum/ Quotes to ponder: "Deal with papers immediately. (Also known as the “one-touch” rule)" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Mar 11
3106: Busyness is a Kind of Debt by David Cain of Raptitude on Minimalism, Mental Clarity & Stress Reduction

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 3106: David Cain of Raptitude.com shares a profound insight into decluttering not just our physical spaces but our mental ones as well, illustrating how achieving 'zero' - be it emails, commitments, or clutter - can drastically improve our mental clarity and reduce stress. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Cain makes a compelling case for minimalism as a tool for better living, urging us to reevaluate our relationship with busyness and embrace the liberating power of zero. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.raptitude.com/2015/09/busyness-is-a-kind-of-debt/ Quotes to ponder: "The psychological effect of reducing any type of mess to zero is profound. It feels like a noisy fan has shut off." "Whatever is normal to us becomes invisible, no matter how counterproductive, and we’ve simply become accustomed to tracking too many ongoing concerns in our heads." Episode references: Getting Things Done by David Allen: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Stress-Free-Productivity/dp/0142000280 KonMari method: https://konmari.com/about-the-konmari-method/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Mar 10
3105: When to Embrace Life’s Red Flags by Jay Harrington of Life and Whim on Risk-Taking & Fostering Resilience

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 3105: Jay Harrington's insightful piece on "When to Embrace Life's Red Flags" offers a compelling narrative on the delicate balance between safeguarding our children and allowing them to navigate risks independently. Highlighting a personal family experience, Harrington eloquently discusses the importance of fostering resilience, creativity, and self-esteem in children through exposure to controlled risks, especially emphasizing the nuanced challenges faced by parents of girls. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/first-moments-blog/2018/embrace-lifes-red-flags Quotes to ponder: "The red flags are not prohibitive - people are allowed to venture out in the water but the flags indicate that there are risks involved." "Kids need to learn to respect red flags but not always adhere to them. Growth comes from pushing past them." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9m
Mar 10
3104: [Part 2] How to Get Good at Dealing With Massive Change by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on Adaptability

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 3104: In "How to Get Good at Dealing with Massive Change – Part 2," Leo Babauta of ZenHabits.net offers insightful strategies to embrace the fluidity of life with a calm mind and a grateful heart. Babauta guides readers through practices of relaxation, compassion, gratitude, and joyful appreciation amidst life's inevitable changes, illustrating how to find beauty and strength in the transient nature of our experiences. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/everchanging/ Quotes to ponder: "Relax into the beauty of the changing moment. Everything is moving, changing, shifting into a new moment." "Practice compassion, gratitude, and joyful appreciation. Can you be grateful for this moment? Appreciate its beauty, its swirling change, its wide openness." "Love the everchanging moment exactly as it is. It includes suffering, loss, and pain, but also constant shifting, growth, and the joy of moving into something new." Episode references: Pema Chodron: https://pemachodronfoundation.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11m
Mar 09
3103: [Part 1] How to Get Good at Dealing With Massive Change by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on Personal 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 3103: Leo Babauta's guide on "How to Get Good at Dealing with Massive Change" offers a transformative approach to navigating life's inevitable shifts. Through cultivating a mindset of openness and adaptability, Babauta teaches how to embrace change as an opportunity for growth and joy, rather than a source of stress. His insights into the habitual reactions our minds default to when faced with upheaval, paired with practical strategies for mental training, promise a path to resilience and profound personal development. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/everchanging/ Quotes to ponder: "The situation just exists, it is not bad. So instead of continuing to be caught up in your thoughts, drop into the pure experience of the present moment." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10m
Mar 08
3102: What "Peak"ed My Curiosity and Is Making Me Strive for More by Helene Massicotte of Free to Pursue

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 3102: Helene Massicotte of FreeToPursue.com shares transformative insights from "Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise" by Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool, challenging the notion of innate talent and emphasizing the power of deliberate practice. Massicotte's personal journey of applying these principles to writing, speaking, strength training, and archery not only showcases the practical steps towards self-improvement but also inspires readers to reassess their own potential and the myths surrounding natural abilities. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.freetopursue.com/blog/2016/5/31/what-peaked-my-curiosity-for-more Quotes to ponder: "The power is in the word 'deliberate'. Just going through the motions doesn’t make us better." Episode references: Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise by Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool: https://www.amazon.com/Peak-Secrets-New-Science-Expertise-ebook/dp/B011H56MKS Freakonomics Radio podcast episode #244: How to Become Great at Just About Anything: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519?i=1000367662472&l=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13m
Mar 07