Optimal Living Daily - ARCHIVE 2 - Episodes 301-600 ONLY

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 3610: Josie Michelle Davis offers a compassionate guide for those feeling paralyzed by indecision or uncertainty. Her practical, heart-centered strategies help you take small, meaningful steps forward, especially when clarity feels impossible, making this a comforting resource for moments of confusion and overwhelm. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://josiemichelledavis.com/blog/2019/02/07/2019-1-26-what-to-do-when-you-have-no-idea-what-to-do/ Quotes to ponder: "When you don't know what to do, do something." "Action breeds clarity. Stillness doesn't always bring the answers we're hoping for." "You don't need to make the right decision right now, you just need to make a decision." Episode references: The Next Right Thing Podcast: https://emilypfreeman.com/podcast/ The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F*ck: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Not-Giving-Counterintuitive/dp/0316270725 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3609: Dr. Jenny Brockis challenges the sweeping conclusion that brain training is ineffective, calling attention to the flawed methodology and limited scope of a widely publicized study. She emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing research design and reminds us that mental fitness depends on a range of lifestyle choices, not just cognitive games. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.drjennybrockis.com/2010/4/26/does-brain-training-work-more-food-for-thought/ Quotes to ponder: "One sweeping statement can colour people's overall acceptance of what is the 'truth'." "240 minutes is not very long to look at how effective a training program is." "Brain training programs are only one facet managing stress and getting enough sleep, will all help in our quest to stay mentally fit." Episode references: The original brain training study (Owen et al., 2010): https://www.nature.com/articles/nature09042 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3608: Jennifer Burger reminds us that even the most exciting trips can lose their spark without intentional self-care. From preserving daily rituals to giving yourself permission to slow down, her practical tips help travelers stay grounded, present, and truly enjoy the journey, body and soul. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.simplyfiercely.com/how-to-practice-self-care-when-travelling/ Quotes to ponder: "Self-care is always important, especially when travelling." "Don't get me wrong, I love talking about travel and making plans, but I also know that I need downtime so that travel stays fun and not an unpleasant chore." "Being free to do what you please is one of the best parts about travel." Episode references: Adult colouring book (similar example): https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Garden-Inky-Treasure-Coloring/dp/1780671067 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3607: Charlie Brown explores the subtle but powerful impact of “Comfort Creep,” the quiet inflation of our comfort standards that erodes our contentment over time. Through personal stories and cultural critique, she offers a compelling argument for resetting our expectations to rediscover gratitude, happiness, and the joy in life's simplest pleasures. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://simpleandstraightforward.substack.com/p/the-quiet-power-of-rejecting-comfort Quotes to ponder: "If you want to level up your contentment and happiness, reset your comfort levels and lower your expectations." "Our expectations of what we want from our home, our car, and our stuff is sky-high, exactly because of Comfort Creep." "Lowering expectations goes against everything we're taught and yet it is one of the most effective ways to experience contentment, happiness, and gratitude." Episode references: The Comfort Crisis: https://www.amazon.com/Comfort-Crisis-Embrace-Discomfort-Reclaim/dp/0593138767 Journal of Adolescence study (2016) on wilderness and mental health: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2016.07.004 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3606: Ryan Holiday explores how anxiety, often invisible and normalized, drains our lives more than any luxury ever could. With wisdom from Stoic philosophers, he reframes anxiety as a habit we can unlearn, freeing ourselves to reclaim peace, presence, and perspective. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanholiday.net/this-is-my-most-expensive-habit/ Quotes to ponder: "Anxiety turns the hypothetical into the actual. It drags us into a future that doesn't yet exist and forces us to live out every worst-case scenario in vivid detail." "Today, I escaped from anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions, not outside." "It's not events that upset us but our opinions about them." Episode references: The Daily Stoic Podcast: https://dailystoic.com/podcast/ Epictetus' Discourses and Enchiridion: https://www.amazon.com/Discourses-Epictetus-Handbook-Oxford-Classics/dp/0199595186 Seneca's Letters from a Stoic: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Stoic-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140442103 Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Penguin-Classics-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/0140449337 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3605: Antonia Colins explores how minimalism can lead to deeper happiness, not through deprivation, but by creating space for clarity, gratitude, and intentional living. By simplifying, we become more attuned to our needs, more confident in our boundaries, and better able to prioritize what truly matters. Quotes to ponder: "Gratitude is a powerful mindset that changes how you perceive ‘enough' in your life." "Saying no is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it becomes." "Minimalism is not about your stuff, it's about finding yourself in amongst that stuff." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3604: Antonia Colins explores how minimalism can shift our focus from material clutter to meaningful living, offering more time, less stress, and deeper contentment. Through personal reflection, she shows that simplifying life isn't about sacrifice, it's about creating space for what truly makes us happy. Quotes to ponder: "Minimalism makes space for the best of you and your life." "Stuff piles up without us noticing, until that stuff starts to weigh heavy on our space, heart and mind." "Less stuff to worry about and more time on my hands means less stress." Episode references: Happiness Definition - Verywell Mind: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-happiness-4869755 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3603: Colin Wright challenges our relationship with possessions, urging us to ask whether the things we own genuinely serve us or simply weigh us down. By fostering self-reliance and internal contentment, we can enjoy life's offerings without becoming dependent on them, creating a richer, more intentional existence. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://exilelifestyle.com/valuable & http://exilelifestyle.com/live Quotes to ponder: "Most ideally, the things we own are mere additions to a fulfilled existence." "Will I feel better knowing this money is there, in the bank, available at need in the future, or will I feel better knowing I've spent it, the money lost to me forever, on this thing?" "If you can find your happiness internally, your satisfaction with life derived from how you experience the world, not in the experiences themselves, then your quality of life is determined by you, not some external factor." Episode references: The Minimalists: https://www.theminimalists.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3602: Marc Chernoff shares a simple yet powerful gratitude ritual that can shift your mindset and improve emotional resilience. By focusing on one small but meaningful moment each day, you retrain your brain to find joy and perspective even during life's toughest challenges. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.marcandangel.com/2016/06/22/one-daily-gratitude-ritual-that-will-change-the-way-you-think/ Quotes to ponder: "Train your mind to see the good in everything. Positivity is a choice. The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts." "Start each morning by writing down one thing you sincerely appreciate about the previous day." "You may not have everything you want, but you can be grateful for everything you have." Episode references: Books by Marc and Angel: https://www.marcandangel.com/book/ The Gifts of Imperfection: https://www.amazon.com/Gifts-Imperfection-Think-Supposed-Embrace/dp/159285849X Gratitude Journal by Intelligent Change: https://www.intelligentchange.com/products/the-five-minute-journal The How of Happiness: https://www.amazon.com/How-Happiness-Approach-Getting-Life/dp/0143114956 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3601: Kristine Klussman explores how anger often masks deeper emotional pain and disconnection from the self, and how practicing self-compassion can dissolve that anger to reveal healing insights. By recognizing anger as a surface-level defense, we gain access to the more vulnerable truths beneath and ultimately foster deeper emotional clarity and inner peace. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.kristineklussman.com/how-to-practice-self-compassion-through-anger/ Quotes to ponder: "Anger is a defensive emotion, used to inflate our egos, make us feel powerful, and defend against the more vulnerable, tender feelings underneath." "Usually, once you reconnect and regain closeness with yourself, you also experience nearly instantaneous relief from the pain of the anger." "To practice self-compassion, we must humble ourselves enough to admit that underneath all our powerful arguments against the thing that's enraged us, we are actually deeply disappointed, sad, heartbroken, grieving, terrified, or in some other vulnerable state." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3600: Julie B. Rose challenges the traditional notions of stability and success by sharing the three mantras that gave her the courage to leave behind a secure life for a nomadic one. Her insights inspire bold change, emphasizing that nothing is permanent, timing is a myth, and waiting can be the most dangerous choice of all. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://juliedevivre.com/2022/03/28/the-three-mantras-i-adopted-that-inspired-me-to-leave-my-traditional-life-behind/ Quotes to ponder: "Besides death - there's very little in life that is truly irreversible." "Sorry, but you may never feel ready, certain, or 100% confident to jump into the deep end." "I had analysis paralysis for so long - and finally, I just had to take a leap of faith." Episode references: The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss: https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Escape-Live-Anywhere/dp/0307465357 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3599: Kerri Richardson reveals how the fear of missing out (FOMO) robs us of joy by distracting us from the present and leading us to make choices that don't align with our true desires. By tuning in to what genuinely fulfills us, we can break free from external pressures, ditch unnecessary comparisons, and start living life on our own terms. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://kerririchardson.com/make-fomo-a-no-go/ Quotes to ponder: "If you're spending your time worrying that someone, somewhere else is having a better time than you, you're actually missing out on the best time ever: The here and now; the present moment." "Use social media for its intended purpose: to share, not compare." "Plug more into life instead of the Internet. Then you, too, will have some cool things to share online." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3598: Jenn Granneman offers a powerful call to action for introverts ready to step into a fuller version of themselves. By embracing solitude, emotional honesty, and small but bold steps, she illustrates how meaningful change is possible without compromising one's quiet nature. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://introvertdear.com/news/introverts-change-your-life/ Quotes to ponder: "Change doesn't have to be loud or dramatic to be life-changing." "You don't have to become someone else to change your life, you just have to become more of who you really are." "Being alone gives you the time and space to hear your inner voice, the one that is often drowned out by the noise of the world." Episode references: Quiet by Susan Cain: https://www.amazon.com/Quiet-Power-Introverts-World-Talking/dp/0307352153 The Highly Sensitive Person: https://hsperson.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3597: Dr. Benjamin Hardy challenges the belief in a "fixed" personality, explaining how trauma, lack of peak experiences, and cultural myths about identity can leave us emotionally and mentally frozen. By healing past wounds, seeking transformative experiences, and embracing change, we can continually evolve into new, more fulfilled versions of ourselves. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/@benjaminhardy/do-you-have-a-frozen-personality-if-so-here-are-3-possible-reasons-ef949c0464c0 Quotes to ponder: "Your memory can get stuck, and then you get stuck." "You need to stop living in the past. This isn't easy. Eventually, you can get to the point where you see the past experience as the past." "Personality is DEVELOPED. And it never has to stop developing." Episode references: The Power of Moments: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Moments-Certain-Experiences-Extraordinary/dp/1501147765 The Body Keeps the Score: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3596: Steve Pavlina challenges readers to shift their mindset from dependency on external authority to self-reliance, urging them to trust their intuition and life experience over conventional expert advice. He also introduces the concept of the “optimism ratio” as a personal barometer for growth, emphasizing how cultivating more optimistic thoughts can directly shape reality and accelerate personal development. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.stevepavlina.com/blog/2005/06/trust-yourself-not-the-experts/ & https://www.stevepavlina.com/blog/2005/02/whats-your-optimism-ratio/ Quotes to ponder: "Your own reasoning ability is vastly more important than the consensus of expert opinion." "If you blindly follow the advice of experts, you'll never learn to think for yourself." "When your optimism ratio is positive, it means you're giving more energy to what you want than to what you don't want." Episode references: Think and Grow Rich: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331 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

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 3595: Joshua Becker highlights one transformative habit that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum impact: watching less television. By cutting back on screen time, we gain more hours for meaningful connection, creativity, and healthier routines, an intentional shift that leads to deeper satisfaction and personal growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/watch-less/ Quotes to ponder: "Life change can be hard - really hard." "Television is a self-propagating habit. It promotes its own self-interests by boldly declaring the Best New Show, Most Watched Network, Can't Miss Episode, or Game of the Year." "Not only are the negative effects of TV detrimental to our lives, the opportunity cost is great." Episode references: Journal of Economic Psychology: https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/journal-of-economic-psychology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3594: Lori Deschene challenges the idea that experts always know best by reminding us that personal decisions often require self-trust, not outside validation. Through relatable stories and psychological insight, she highlights how relying too heavily on authority figures can obscure our inner wisdom and hinder authentic decision-making. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://tinybuddha.com/blog/there-is-no-expert-on-you/ Quotes to ponder: "Sometimes in looking for emotional back up, we give our power away, and oftentimes to people who know far less about what we need than we think." "The experts don't have all the answers. Sometimes there aren't any absolute answers." "We want there to be far more absolutes than there are, and we don't want to have to carry the weight of our choices alone." Episode references: Sway: The Irresistible Pull of Irrational Behavior: https://www.amazon.com/Sway-Irresistible-Pull-Irrational-Behavior/dp/0385524382 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3593: Sam from Financial Samurai dismantles the myth that remodeling guarantees a return on investment, explaining that most renovations recoup only about 65% of their cost. He emphasizes that true profit comes from expansion, not remodeling, and encourages homeowners to remodel for personal enjoyment rather than profit, unless increasing livable square footage is the goal. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialsamurai.com/does-remodeling-pay-off-make-money/ Quotes to ponder: "Almost all property remodeling does not recoup the cost spent remodeling based on national averages." "Remodeling is a lifestyle choice with generally negative returns." "Increase the livable square footage of the home, and you increase the home's selling price. It's that simple." Episode references: 2023 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine: https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2023/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3592: Michael Blankenship challenges the idea that joy should be reserved for leisure by showing how embracing fun, even during life's messiest, most mundane moments, can transform your entire experience. By replacing judgment with curiosity and light-heartedness, you're not avoiding responsibility, you're reclaiming joy as your most powerful, practical tool for everyday living. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getyourgustoback.com/the-life-changing-power-of-having-fun-a-thought-experiment/ Quotes to ponder: “It's hard to be fully present and have fun when a part of you is getting lost in a mental maze.” “You're too busy thinking negative thoughts to enjoy the good, the bad, or the shit-stained!” “When fun flourishes, judgment dies.” Episode references: Tiny Buddha: https://tinybuddha.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3591: Renee Benes emphasizes the powerful impact that negative people can have on our mental and physical well-being, comparing emotional toxicity to the clutter we often strive to remove from our homes. By recognizing the reasons we hold onto harmful relationships and setting clear, loving boundaries, we can reclaim peace, clarity, and emotional freedom in our daily lives. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.thefunsizedlife.com/how-to-downsize-your-life-from-negative-people/ Quotes to ponder: "You can't save anyone." "Whenever you say 'no' to something, you are saying 'yes' to something else." "Saying 'no' to a relationship doesn't mean you have to stop loving a person." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3590: David Cain reminds us that life is never truly stuck; every moment offers a chance to begin anew, no matter how entrenched we feel in our routines or past mistakes. His perspective empowers listeners to let go of old narratives and embrace the infinite fresh starts available at any moment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.raptitude.com/2015/10/your-life-is-always-just-beginning/ Quotes to ponder: "Your life is not on a path, and you can always start fresh." "The past is only alive in your mind right now, and nowhere else." "Today is the beginning of your life, and so is tomorrow." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3589: Kyle Kowalski challenges the traditional approach of cramming more into each day and instead advocates for "better is better" through calendar time blocking. By intentionally scheduling tasks and aligning them with personal priorities and energy levels, time blocking boosts efficiency, reduces mental clutter, and fosters meaningful progress. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.sloww.co/time-blocking/ Quotes to ponder: "What gets scheduled gets done." "Time blocking is one of the best ways of turning good intentions into action." "What's important now? After a moment of reflection I realized that until I knew what was important right now, what was important right now was to figure out what was important right now!" Episode references: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown: https://www.amazon.com/Essentialism-Disciplined-Pursuit-Greg-McKeown/dp/0804137382 Chasing Slow: Courage to Journey Off the Beaten Path by Erin Loechner: https://www.amazon.com/Chasing-Slow-Courage-Journey-Beaten/dp/0310345677 When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel Pink: https://www.amazon.com/When-Scientific-Secrets-Perfect-Timing/dp/0735210624 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3588: Jacob Lund Fisker challenges traditional views of productivity by emphasizing that true output isn't about managing time, but about wisely using finite reserves of creative, physical, and social energy. By likening productivity to a goose that can only lay one golden egg per day, he highlights the critical importance of balancing extraction, maintenance, and expansion to sustain long-term success without burnout. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://earlyretirementextreme.com/productivity-and-the-goose-that-laid-the-golden-eggs.html Quotes to ponder: "Productivity is not about maximizing extraction. The rate of extraction must not be maximized. Maximizing extraction is bad." "If a person creates a lot of value in a single day, you can rest assured that very little of the same kind of value will be produced the next day." "Productivity, therefore, is not about expending time more efficiently - it's not about expending more energy either. It is about expending energy most efficiently." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3587: Shawna Scafe explores how "identity clutter," the physical and emotional baggage tied to who we think we should be, prevents us from living authentically in the present. She shows how minimalism and an abundance mindset can help clear space for genuine growth and help us step confidently into the people we truly are today. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://simpleonpurpose.ca/identity-clutter/ Quotes to ponder: "I wanted to be this person who makes bird food bread. But I never made it a priority." "When we fill up our space with ‘aspirations,' we can't use our space for actual, present moment LIVING." "Decluttering the excess ALLOWS us to change and grow." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3586: Cylon George explores how finding your purpose doesn't have to be a monumental quest but instead can unfold through small daily actions and reflections. He offers practical strategies for tuning into what matters most, helping you align your life with deeper meaning and fulfillment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.spirituallivingforbusypeople.com/purpose Quotes to ponder: "Finding your purpose doesn't have to be a massive project or a huge commitment." "Small steps taken consistently over time can lead to a profound sense of purpose." "Paying attention to what energizes you and what drains you is a simple way to get clues about your purpose." Episode references: Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life: https://www.amazon.com/Ikigai-Japanese-Secret-Long-Happy/dp/0143130722 VIA Character Strengths Survey: https://www.viacharacter.org/survey/account/register The Purpose Driven Life: https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Driven-Life-What-Earth/dp/031033750X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3585: Nia Shanks emphasizes the transformative power of incorporating more "play" into daily life, showing how intentional moments of fun can boost creativity, mental health, and resilience. She encourages readers to rediscover activities that spark genuine joy and explains how prioritizing playful experiences leads to a more energized and fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://niashanks.com/play-time-and-why-you-need-it/ Quotes to ponder: "Play is any activity that brings you joy just for the sake of doing it." "Play helps relieve stress, boost creativity, improve relationships, and make life more enjoyable." "Make time for the activities that make you lose track of time, that make you smile and laugh, that leave you feeling lighter and happier." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3584: Shana Olmstead shares a powerful mantra from her 98-year-old great aunt: AFGO, "another f*ing growth opportunity," reminding us that every challenge is a chance to expand our consciousness and evolve. With practical advice on cultivating awareness, reframing challenges, and trusting the universe's plan, Shana invites us to see life not as a series of problems, but as an ongoing, loving curriculum for personal growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://shanaolmstead.com/2018/09/11/afgo-the-best-personal-growth-mantra-of-all-time/ Quotes to ponder: "Every annoying person or long line or painful experience, it's all here to teach us and help us grow." "There are no problems, I am not a victim, life is a teacher, and I am a student." "Surrender, surrender, surrender. When you feel you've surrendered enough, keep surrendering." Episode references: 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

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 3583: Melani Schwayder explores how we can reclaim peace and purpose by infusing our chaotic, fast-paced lives with the principles of zen. From single-tasking to mindful decluttering, this piece offers practical steps to create spaciousness, reduce stress, and reconnect with the calm that already resides within us. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.abrighterwild.com/blog/zen-in-everyday-life Quotes to ponder: "When eating, eat. When walking, walk." "Zen cannot exist where there is clutter." "You see, zen is something that already exists innately within us. We are born in perfect peace, at ease with our world and with ourselves." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3582: Kathy Robinson explores the transformative power of paradoxical thinking as a tool for navigating today's complex, often divisive world. By embracing a both/and mindset instead of binary either/or thinking, we open ourselves to deeper understanding, reduced emotional reactivity, and more peaceful, creative decision-making. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://athenawellness.com/blog/2022/4/1/the-art-of-holding-paradox Quotes to ponder: "The practice of considering a both/and view doesn't ask that we agree with opposing views, but it does ask us to allow the space for multiple experiences, opinions, and possibilities." "Paradoxical thinking gives us the opportunity to approach our challenges from different angles instead of one perspective for a deeper understanding and more inclusive resolution." "What we find when we hold a paradox is that what's on the other side is insight." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3581: Greg Audino redefines what it means to be responsible by blending real-life growth stages with mind-bending concepts from Robert Scheinfeld's Busting Loose From the Money Game. By challenging conventional thinking and viewing life as a personal video game of cause and effect, Audino makes the case for radical responsibility as a path to freedom, empowerment, and deeper self-awareness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/invisible-illness/life-invaders-3-return-of-responsibility-fbb9d06baa9e Quotes to ponder: "Responsibility is one of those concepts whose meaning changes drastically as life goes on." "You see, we like responsibility within reason. It feels nice to tell ourselves we're responsible. But transcending that is not what most people sign up for." "Taking deliberate responsibility for things that aren't a part of your plan gets you comfortable with the uncomfortable." Episode references: The Egg - A Short Story (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6fcK_fRYaI The Martian by Andy Weir: https://www.amazon.com/Martian-Andy-Weir/dp/0553418025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3580: Chris Guillebeau explores the often-overlooked power of intentional rest as a crucial element of productivity and long-term success. By reframing rest as a proactive strategy rather than a reward or weakness, he offers a refreshing approach to avoiding burnout and sustaining creative energy. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisguillebeau.com/rest-and-recovery/ Quotes to ponder: "Rest is not a reward for hard work; it's part of the work itself." "When we plan for rest and recovery in advance, we make better decisions and live better lives." "Rest is a strategy. It's a way to gain clarity, increase your creative energy, and avoid burnout." Episode references: Essentialism: https://gregmckeown.com/books/essentialism Atomic Habits: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3579: Rachel Jones offers a refreshingly simple approach to beginning a minimalist lifestyle by asking one essential question: “Is this stuff helping you live the life you want to live?” Her practical advice cuts through guilt and indecision, empowering you to clear the clutter and free your mind, one intentional choice at a time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://nourishingminimalism.com/simple-tricks-begin-minimalist-lifestyle/ Quotes to ponder: "Is this stuff helping you live the life you want to live?" "You can't organize your way out of a clutter problem: you need to eliminate most of the items." "When the clutter is gone, it's easy to organize what's left." Episode references: Mini Habits: https://www.amazon.com/Mini-Habits-Smaller-Bigger-Results/dp/1494882272 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3578: J.D. Roth shares how reclaiming control over your time is the key to living with intention. By understanding where your hours go and aligning your actions with your values, you can craft a more meaningful, less reactive life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getrichslowly.org/taking-control-of-time-and-life/ Quotes to ponder: "Time is your most valuable resource. You can always make more money, but once time is gone, it's gone." "I wasn't choosing how to spend my time. I was letting life happen to me, and reacting to it." "Freedom comes when your choices align with your values." Episode references: Your Money or Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Money-Life-Transforming-Relationship/dp/0143115766 The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin: https://gretchenrubin.com/books/the-four-tendencies/ RescueTime: https://www.rescuetime.com/ Toggl: https://toggl.com/ 168 Hours by Laura Vanderkam: https://www.amazon.com/168-Hours-You-Have-Time/dp/159184410X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3577: Leo Babauta explores the root of our self-dissatisfaction and challenges the common belief that unhappiness with ourselves is necessary for growth. Instead, he offers a compassionate alternative, embracing self-love as a more sustainable and powerful motivator for change, with practices like mindfulness and daily reflection helping to build a genuine friendship with oneself. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/dissatisfied/ Quotes to ponder: "You can do work out of love for the people, it will help." "Each time we have these feelings, we can pause and just notice." "There is a basic goodness beneath all of our difficulties, and we just need to stay and notice this goodness." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3576: Kate Hesse explores the tension between burnout and underperformance, offering a compassionate look at how our energy levels naturally ebb and flow. By addressing night owl habits, the pros and cons of routines, and how rest might not be laziness but necessary recovery, she empowers readers to find a more sustainable rhythm rooted in self-awareness and nature's cycles. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://nourishnestbreathe.com/struggle-doing-too-much-or-too-little/ Quotes to ponder: "Staying up late isn't an issue unless you find yourself chronically tired, rushing each morning in a panic because you're running late for work." "Periods where we're more productive, and periods where we're more introspective are natural and normal." "Doing less isn't lazy, it's resting up for the next round." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3575: Stephen Guise challenges the common belief that overwhelm is caused by having too much to do. Instead, he reveals it's more about how we interpret our responsibilities, and shows that slowing down, not speeding up, is the unexpected path to clarity and productivity. Learn how doing nothing for a moment can shift your mindset and help you regain control, one calm breath at a time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://minihabits.com/the-weird-way-to-fight-overwhelm/ Quotes to ponder: "Taking a moment proves that overwhelm is only in the mind." "When I begin to sense overwhelm, I will sit down on the couch or even lie down. This reaffirms to me that no figurative or real alligator is chasing me." "The best way to blow it in a clutch situation in sports is to think about how important the situation is. None of that has anything to do with your ability to execute!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3574: Dr. Jenny Brockis shares simple yet powerful strategies to quiet the mind and reclaim calm in an overstimulated world. By tuning into our senses, cultivating gratitude, laughing more, and practicing mindfulness, we can enhance our clarity, creativity, and emotional resilience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drjennybrockis.com/2016/9/8/in-search-of-calm/ Quotes to ponder: "A calm mind is a quiet mind, highly tuned and aware." "Writing down what we are grateful for helps to instill calm." "A good belly laugh is a great way to reduce tension and elevate mood." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3573: Jennifer of SimplyFiercely.com shares seven powerful journal prompts designed to help you simplify your life by reconnecting with your values and identifying hidden mental clutter. These thoughtful exercises offer a gentle yet profound way to reduce stress, make aligned decisions, and let go of what no longer serves you. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.simplyfiercely.com/simple-journal-prompts/ Quotes to ponder: "Everyone experiences stress now and then but unfortunately, for many it has become a 'normal' state of being." "If you want more time for what really matters, then you need to start by clarifying what this means to you." "At its core, simple living is values-led living, life feels 'simple' when you're living true to yourself." Episode references: Louise Hay quote source (You Can Heal Your Life): https://www.amazon.com/You-Can-Heal-Your-Life/dp/0937611018 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3572: Chalene Johnson shares actionable strategies to break free from self-doubt and build lasting self-confidence by rewiring your internal dialogue and setting clear personal boundaries. Through relatable stories and simple mindset shifts, she empowers listeners to reclaim control over their self-perception and stop seeking external validation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.chalenejohnson.com/eliminate-self-doubt-and-boost-confidence-with-these-simple-tips/ Quotes to ponder: "Confidence is not something you're born with, it's something you build." "When we don't create boundaries, we invite people to take advantage of our time and energy." "You've got to stop looking for confidence externally and start creating it internally." Episode references: The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins: https://www.amazon.com/5-Second-Rule-Transform-Confidence-Everyday/dp/1682612384 The Confidence Code: https://www.amazon.com/Confidence-Code-Science-Self-Assurance-What-Should/dp/0062230638 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3571: Joshua Fields Millburn shares a deeply personal journey of loss, self-discovery, and radical transformation, sparked by one simple tweet. As grief dismantled his old life, he found purpose and freedom through minimalism, proving how a single moment can reshape everything and lead to a more intentional, meaningful path. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.theminimalists.com/tweet Quotes to ponder: "A month after she passed, my marriage ended abruptly, and I didn't know which way was up anymore." "When I heard him talk about his newfound freedom, how minimalism allowed him to focus on the most important things in his life, I immediately said, 'I'm in.'" "Most important, Ryan and I have been able to contribute beyond ourselves: minimalism has allowed us to shed the excess so we can live intentionally and contribute to others in a meaningful way." Episode references: Asymmetrical Press: https://www.asymmetrical.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3570: Eric Teplitz offers a heartfelt guide to the practice of lovingkindness, or metta meditation, encouraging us to cultivate compassion not just for others but for ourselves. By incorporating simple, sincere wishes for well-being into both formal and informal moments of daily life, we can foster greater peace, connection, and empathy, even amidst life's chaos. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://inspiredlivingblog.wordpress.com/2015/08/08/my-wish-for-you/ Quotes to ponder: "May you be and feel: fully supported, and deeply loved, valued, cherished, and cared for." "It just has to occur to you to do it." "Starting your day with a practice like this can set the tone for your day, before you get caught up in the relentless pull of things to do." Episode references: Guided Meditation: Six Essential Practices to Cultivate Love, Awareness, and Wisdom: https://www.soundstrue.com/products/guided-meditation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3569: Marc Chernoff offers 11 thoughtful suggestions for spending money in ways that genuinely improve your life, from nurturing relationships and investing in your health to upgrading daily-use items and paying down debt. Rather than defaulting to saving or splurging, he encourages mindful spending that supports long-term well-being, purpose, and personal growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.marcandangel.com/2008/02/20/11-practical-ways-to-spend-your-money/ Quotes to ponder: "There may be no better way to spend your money than to use it to nurture and rekindle personal relationships with the most significant people in your life." "Your health is your life. Without it, all the success and affluence in the world is meaningless." "There is nothing wrong with splurging on a practical item that you actually use on a regular basis." Episode references: Somatic Therapy: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/somatic-therapy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3568: Sabrina of Budding Optimist explores how the everyday phrases "if only" and "not now" can quietly sabotage our happiness, anchoring us in regret and procrastination. With personal stories and sharp self-reflection, she shows how shifting our language can lead to a deeper sense of contentment and purposeful action. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://buddingoptimist.com/power-of-words/ Quotes to ponder: "If only” also prevents us from enjoying the present. It has us looking constantly at the pot on the stove, wondering what other delicious bits might be in there, instead of savouring the food already on our plate." "The words 'not now' had created a fortress of excuses that had confined me to the status quo. And I was miserable inside it." "The simple act of taking notice of what you say, to others and to yourself, will build the foundation for change to happen." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3567: Sabrina explores how seemingly harmless phrases like “why me” and “if only” subtly erode our happiness by reinforcing feelings of helplessness and dissatisfaction. Through her own experiences with serious illness, she illustrates how acceptance and a shift in mindset can reclaim peace and power in our lives. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://buddingoptimist.com/power-of-words/ Quotes to ponder: "Words can comfort, energize, and encourage. They can also provoke, stifle, and frustrate." "So don't ask 'why me?' It is an unanswerable question." "The biggest problem with the phrase 'if only' is that it describes a scenario that does not exist." Episode references: Words Can Change Your Brain: https://www.amazon.com/Words-Can-Change-Your-Brain/dp/0142196770 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 3566: Stephen Warley shares how crafting a personal mantra transformed his anxious mornings into intentional beginnings. By aligning each line of his mantra with core values, creation, listening, learning, and action, he offers a practical, empowering tool to help reduce anxiety and reclaim focus throughout the day. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeskillsthatmatter.com/blog/daily-mantra Quotes to ponder: "Mantras have evolved to become statements of how you might live your life or act in certain situations." "I believe one of the greatest expressions of love is to listen deeply." "Progress is better than perfectionism. You can learn from progress. Perfectionism makes you feel like a failure." Episode references: Transcendental Meditation: https://www.tm.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices