Podcasts about four thousand weeks time management

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 4052: Tonya Lester reflects on how the constant drive to be productive can pull us away from the moments that matter most, sharing a deeply personal story about rushing and its unexpected cost. Her perspective offers a refreshing reminder that a richer life often comes not from managing time better, but from choosing to do less and be more present. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.tonyalester.com/blog/a-personal-perspective-on-time-management Quotes to ponder: "Productivity, efficiency, and quick accomplishments have become a religion in our culture." "The secret to a sane existence, one where you can be present, notice the small details, and take the time to enjoy simple pleasures, isn't doing everything faster, or even organizing your time better, it's doing less." "Next time, instead of asking myself if I can possibly fit in one more thing, I'll ask myself, “Is there a way to make this easier, more enjoyable, and more meaningful? What would it be like to slow this all down, the laughing and the eating, yes, but even the cooking and cleaning?”" Episode references: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals: https://www.amazon.com/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Time-Management/dp/0374159122 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 4052: Tonya Lester reflects on how the constant drive to be productive can pull us away from the moments that matter most, sharing a deeply personal story about rushing and its unexpected cost. Her perspective offers a refreshing reminder that a richer life often comes not from managing time better, but from choosing to do less and be more present. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.tonyalester.com/blog/a-personal-perspective-on-time-management Quotes to ponder: "Productivity, efficiency, and quick accomplishments have become a religion in our culture." "The secret to a sane existence, one where you can be present, notice the small details, and take the time to enjoy simple pleasures, isn't doing everything faster, or even organizing your time better, it's doing less." "Next time, instead of asking myself if I can possibly fit in one more thing, I'll ask myself, “Is there a way to make this easier, more enjoyable, and more meaningful? What would it be like to slow this all down, the laughing and the eating, yes, but even the cooking and cleaning?”" Episode references: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals: https://www.amazon.com/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Time-Management/dp/0374159122 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 4052: Tonya Lester reflects on how the constant drive to be productive can pull us away from the moments that matter most, sharing a deeply personal story about rushing and its unexpected cost. Her perspective offers a refreshing reminder that a richer life often comes not from managing time better, but from choosing to do less and be more present. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.tonyalester.com/blog/a-personal-perspective-on-time-management Quotes to ponder: "Productivity, efficiency, and quick accomplishments have become a religion in our culture." "The secret to a sane existence, one where you can be present, notice the small details, and take the time to enjoy simple pleasures, isn't doing everything faster, or even organizing your time better, it's doing less." "Next time, instead of asking myself if I can possibly fit in one more thing, I'll ask myself, “Is there a way to make this easier, more enjoyable, and more meaningful? What would it be like to slow this all down, the laughing and the eating, yes, but even the cooking and cleaning?”" Episode references: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals: https://www.amazon.com/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Time-Management/dp/0374159122 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Attention researcher Dr Gloria Mark (Attention Span), bestselling author Oliver Burkeman (Meditations for Mortals) and book strategist Charlie Hoehn (Play It Away) on designing your day around peak focus, embracing imperfection in creative work and bringing play back to the page. You'll learn The four states of attention every writer should know. Two daily peak focus windows, and a simple method to find your own. The reframe that gives writers permission — most writing isn't flow. How the success of one bestselling book can paralyse the next. A quantity-over-quality method that satisfies the inner perfectionist. Why free writing isn't a warm-up but the engine of the next draft. A counterintuitive trick for handling interruptions when you're trying to write. What play deprivation quietly does to creative output. A small experiment with play that resets your relationship to work. Why fighting your own nature as a writer is a losing game.   Resources & Links Dr Gloria Mark Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity by Dr Gloria Mark Chronotype (Sleep Foundation) Morningness Eveningness Questionnaire Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi Yohaku no bi: The Beauty of Empty Space Gloria's website Gloria's newsletter Oliver Burkeman Meditations for Mortals Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals The Imperfectionist (newsletter) Deep Freewriting by Stephen Lloyd Webber ILYS software Charlie Hoehn Play It Away The Power of Play | Charlie Hoehn | TEDxSantoDomingo Charlie's website Author Alliance Original Episode Links Dr Gloria Mark's original episode Oliver Burkeman's original episode  Charlie Hoehn's original episode   About the Guests Gloria Mark is Chancellor's Professor of Informatics at the University of California, Irvine. She received her PhD from Columbia University in psychology and studies the impact of digital media on people's lives. She has published over 200 articles, and in 2017 was inducted into the ACM SIGCHI Academy, which recognises leaders in the field of human-computer interaction. She has presented her work at SXSW and the Aspen Ideas Festival, and her research has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, NPR, CNN, The Guardian, the Dax Shepard show, the Dave Asprey show and many others. She is the author of Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity. Oliver Burkeman worked for many years at The Guardian, where he wrote a popular weekly column on psychology, 'This Column Will Change Your Life.' His books include the New York Times bestseller Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking. His latest book is Meditations for Mortals. Charlie Hoehn is a three-time New York Times bestselling editor, five-time author, and the founder of Author Alliance. For three years, Charlie was Tim Ferriss' Director of Special Projects and first full-time hire. Together, they launched The 4-Hour Body to #1 New York Times, #1 Barnes & Noble, and #1 Amazon overall. Previously, he was Head of Multimedia for Scribe Media, where he produced over 500 videos and 300 podcast episodes. He is a keynote speaker who has presented to groups at Microsoft, PepsiCo, the Pentagon, U.S. Military, Stanford, TEDx and HEC Paris. His ideas on work-play integration have been featured on NPR's TED Radio Hour, Fast Company, Forbes, Financial Times, Huberman Lab, Chase Jarvis Live, TEDx, and many others. For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.For free writing sessions, join free Writers' Hours: writershour.com.*FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS' SALONTwitter: twitter.com/​​WritersSalonInstagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalonFacebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalonIf you're enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!

Ever wake up already feeling behind, before the emails, before school drop-off, before anything has actually gone wrong? In this episode, Ryan talks with Oliver Burkeman, bestselling author of 4,000 Weeks and Meditations for Mortals, about that “back foot” feeling so many parents live in. Ryan and Oliver talk about why we give our best energy to trivial things, why we say yes when we mean no, and how a small shift in how we think about time and trade-offs can change the tone of an entire day.Oliver Burkeman is the author of the New York Times bestseller Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking, and Meditations for Mortals. Follow Oliver on Instagram and X @OliverBurkeman

**BEST OF** In an effort to make time for ourselves, many of us fall back on using To Do lists and time blocking. But often these strategies can end up with the same result: getting lost in chasing productivity. So how do we make time for the things that truly count? Oliver Burkeman is a New York Times bestselling author of books such as ‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals’ and ‘Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts’. Oliver is also a regular columnist for The Guardian. If there is anyone who truly understands the philosophy and psychology of time management and happiness, it’s Oliver. Oliver shares: The mindset you should be using when you first approach a task if you want it to be achieved easily How you can free up time by minimising time spent on worrying The strategy you should be utilising instead of a to-do list to actually create a sense of achievement Why being open to distractions can actually be beneficial Key Quotes:"Don't start from the position that unexpected things happening must be bad." “There is this tendency to set things up in your mind so that you can never feel like you’ve done something well enough." Connect with Oliver via his website, or get his latest book, Meditations for Mortals, here My latest book The Health Habit is out now. You can order a copy here: https://www.amantha.com/the-health-habit/ Connect with me on the socials: Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanthaimber) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amanthai) If you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work and live, I write a weekly newsletter where I share practical and simple to apply tips to improve your life. You can sign up for that at https://amantha-imber.ck.page/subscribe Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at amantha@inventium.com.au Credits: Host: Amantha Imber Sound Engineer: The Podcast ButlerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most productivity advice promises that if you just find the right system, you'll finally catch up. In today's episode, Ryan sits down with Oliver Burkeman who explains why that feeling never arrives and why that is not a personal failure. They discuss the productivity lie that keeps so many people feeling behind every single day, how hustle culture quietly creates anxiety, and why the goal of getting “on top of everything” is impossible. Oliver explains why urgency often makes life worse, not better, how saying no is harder than it should be, and what actually changes when you stop trying to win time and start accepting your limits.Oliver Burkeman is the author of the New York Times bestseller Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking, and Meditations for Mortals. Follow Oliver on Instagram and X @OliverBurkemanGrab signed copies of Meditations for Mortals and Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman at The Painted Porch: https://www.thepaintedporch.com/

Does life ever feel like an endless to-do list? Like if you could just wake up tomorrow with a little more discipline, you’d finally master your schedule, achieve balance, and feel…enough? On today's episode, Oliver Burkeman (bestselling author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals) and Kate unravel some of the beautiful lies we cling to about time and control, the fantasy of hyper-efficiency, and what it might look like to embrace the limits that make us who we are. In this conversation, Kate and Oliver discuss: Some of the most common self-help myths that stand in our way Why the relentless pursuit of self-improvement often leaves us feeling empty, anxious, and overwhelmed. How embracing our limits can lead to more contentment This is a conversation about limits—not as something to overcome, but as a doorway to something richer, deeper, and (dare I say) more human. If you liked this episode, you’ll also love: Katie Couric on The Courage to Try (and Wisdom to Know When to Let Go) Susan David on Toxic Positivity Samantha Irby on Doing My Best (Life Now) Elizabeth Gilbert on Why Your Creativity Matters Watch clips from this conversation, read the full transcript, and access discussion questions by clicking here. Subscribe to Kate’s Substack for blessings, essays, and reflections that hold what’s hard and beautiful. This episode originally aired December 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Claim your complimentary gift of my exclusive mini weight care guide today!Link: Weight Care Guide — Dr. Francavilla Show (thedrfrancavillashow.com)Ever feel like time just keeps slipping away, no matter how hard you try to stay on top of things? As 2025 winds down, it's the perfect moment to pause and think about stepping into 2026 with more intention—without the pressure of rigid resolutions or endless to-do lists.Earlier this year, I came across a book that quietly reshaped how I—and many people I've shared it with—approach time, productivity, and priorities. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman isn't your usual productivity guide. It's not about cramming more into your calendar or hacking every hour of the day. Instead, it challenges the constant pressure to do more, optimize everything, and stay endlessly “on top of things.” Its lessons aren't seasonal; they apply whether it's January, June, or December.In this episode, I'm sharing ten mindset shifts inspired by the book that actually help reduce stress, ease overwhelm, and bring attention back to what truly matters. These aren't about getting more done—they're about being honest with your time, prioritizing what counts, and approaching life with more clarity, compassion, and humanity. From slowing down to saying no and embracing imperfection, these lessons can help you enter 2026 feeling grounded, intentional, and fully present.If you want to dive deeper into all ten mindset shifts and practical ways to make 2026 feel more intentional, the full episode is waiting for you. Tune in and give yourself the gift of clarity, focus, and a little more calm.Connect with me:Instagram: doctorfrancavillaFacebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. FrancavillaWebsite: Dr. Francavilla ShowYoutube: The Doctor Francavilla ShowGLP Strong: glpstrong.com

Erick is stepping away for some time. His mom just got diagnosed with cancer, so he wants to spend more time and bandwidth on her. And I'm moving to Costa Rica this month! In 2 1/2 weeks, so it is cray-cray over here.  Fresh new episodes will arrive in February (with a little bit of a revamp) and a special series on getting back to your writing or creative practice after grief, loss, addiction, or big life stress, but do look for some bonus episodes from the road. Went to Breitenbush, Portland (Powell's), Seattle, Write in the Harbor writing conference in Gig Harbor, WA (*heart*), sold a car, rented the house, cancelling services, buying foreign auto insurance, washing ten years of dirt off of all the things we stored outside, tricking out the FJ Cruiser for the drive, buying special dog beds and storage for the vehicle, inspection and minor repairs today. Movers on Monday. Cleaners on Thursday. Walk on bark and blinds for upstairs, too. Saying Goodbyes.  crossing the border at Tijuana, driving thru Baja California, taking ferry to Mazatlan; spending some time in Oaxaca with a friend What are you reading?   Wild Dark Shore (Charlotte McConaghy) We Need Your Art: Stop Messing Around and Make Something (Amie McNee) (resource tip)*** Creative Act (Rick Rubin)  (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman;    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes: Follow my drive to Costa Rica on Instagram! #puravidabound  And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.  

Today, Ben sits down with fellow Catholic financial planners Nick Orenduff and Charlie Horonzy for a rich roundtable on what it truly means to live a generous, ordered, and faith-centered life. Together, they wrestle with the tension between self-giving and self-preservation—how to pour ourselves out for God, family, and community without crossing into burnout or misplaced busyness. Nick reflects on the daily discipline of keeping God first, family second, and career third, while Charlie shares how prayer, discernment, and spirituality help him know when to say yes or no to new commitments. The trio also explore how seasons of life shape our ability to serve, how financial boundaries mirror spiritual ones, and why surrendering control is often the most faithful form of stewardship. Woven through their conversation is a deep trust that God's providence can transform even our limitations into grace. By the end, Ben, Nick, and Charlie invite listeners to view their time, money, and energy not as burdens to manage, but as sacred resources to be aligned with God's will—one prayerful decision at a time.Key Takeaways:• A well-ordered life begins by placing God first, family second, and career third—a framework that helps align all other decisions.• True generosity doesn't mean saying yes to everything; it means discerning where God is actually calling you to give.• The way we serve changes as our responsibilities shift—young parents, for example, are called to focus more deeply on family.• Offering our struggles and discomfort to God transforms them into acts of love and participation in His plan.• Recognizing life's brevity encourages intentionality about how we spend our weeks and years.• Our careers, finances, and families are not possessions to control but gifts to steward in loving obedience.Key Timestamps:(01:55) – Balancing Work and Life(07:53) – Trusting God and Letting Go(10:03) – Family Dynamics and Communication(17:42) – Seasons of Life and Service(20:24) – Balancing Volunteering and Personal Boundaries(23:47) –  Navigating Life's Noise and Staying Focused on God(31:46) – The Value of Time and Living IntentionallyMentions:Website: https://www.focusedupfinancial.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-horonzy-cfp%C2%AE-cpa-8802b910/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FocusedUpFinancial# Website: https://www.planmember.com/advisor/?bk=NOrenduff LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-ross-orenduff-cfp%C2%AE-a45a7524b/ Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver BurkemanThe Practice of the Presence of God by Brother LawrenceMore of Catholic Money Mastermind:Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Oliver Burkeman is a bestselling author, journalist, and the mind behind “Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals” and “Meditations for Mortals.” We explore our broken relationship with time and Oliver's philosophy of imperfectionism, which dismantles the delusion that productivity is a moral imperative. Oliver explains why we're all chasing an infinite backlog, how perfectionism keeps us from doing the work, the path from overwhelm to agency, why acceptance isn't resignation, and the mystical energy of completion. Along the way, Oliver diagnoses my biggest malfunction and exposes an uncomfortable truth about my people-pleasing tendencies. Oliver's work is vital. And this conversation might just change your life. Enjoy!  Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up  Today's Sponsors: Momentous: High-caliber human performance products for sleep, focus, longevity, and more. For listeners of the show, Momentous is offering up to 35% off your first order

You know that phrase, "We compare our insides to other people's outsides"? We're bombarded with others' achievements but see less of the steps – internal and external – it took to get there. These days, we feel an increased pressure to achieve, to pursue greatness. We reach for this mythical, impossible standard. Drawing from his book, Meditations for Mortals, Burkeman believes that if you accept the fact that you will never "get there," you can actually start making good choices that lead to a meaningful life. Through this guiding philosophy, Burkeman calls "imperfectionism," we can tackle challenges in our daily lives: our finite time, the lure of distraction, the impossibility of doing anything perfectly, the feeling that the world is spinning out of control. How can we embrace our limitations? Or make good decisions when there's always too much to do? How do we shed the illusion that life will really begin as soon as we can "get on top of everything"? Pulling from the fields of philosophy, religion, literature, psychology, and self-help, Burkeman explores a combination of practical tools and daily shifts in perspective. Burkeman offers a way to embrace our mortality, to in fact find solace and inspiration in it. In anxiety-inducing times, Burkeman believes that holding back in life is a guarantee for anguish, while living in just one moment at a time is the solution for getting to the things that matter most to you. Oliver Burkeman worked for many years at The Guardian, where he wrote a popular weekly column on psychology, "This Column Will Change Your Life." His books include the New York Times bestseller Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking. Buy the Book Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts Elliott Bay Book Company

 Flawed Female Leads with guest Heather Snodgrass PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 ***   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): launching my four-month book coaching container Aligned Author TODAY. The price is drastically cut this week (it's $667 off the regular price.) Go to valerieihsan.com/alignedauthor for all the details.  Write in the Harbor conference is coming up (2 presentations to prep for) feeling some feelings lately about the finality of the move and the recognition of Last Times I Will See/Do ...    (Erick):  running google ads and qualifying potential clients polishing stories up for omnibus edition   What are you reading? Valerie:  Just finished:  None of This is True (Lisa Jewell) Wild Dark Shore (Charlotte McConaghy) We Need Your Art: Stop Messing Around and Make Something (Amie McNee) Creative Act (Rick Rubin)  (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman;  Erick:  • Summer of Night (Dan Simmons) My Favorite Thing is Monsters (gn) Batman: The Long Halloween (gn) Flash Fiction America: 73 Very Short Stories Heather: authorheathersnodgrass.com  Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1:  Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes: Hi! My name is Heather Snodgrass. I have always had a love for novels, movies, and the creative arts. I attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in 2007 as an actor and have pursued different avenues to bring stories to life.  I currently live with my husband, JD, and dogs, in Colorado, but I have lived in many places and I enjoy traveling. I also enjoy playing video games and gardening. Like Ariana, I have a playlist for everything I do and I love to have people make me a playlist about themselves when they meet. I am more than happy to share mine with anyone interested. Unapologetic female leads: In a time when we're drawn to flawed characters; the Real is coming through. Personal growth journey Tips for writing strong women without bashing men: Draw from personal experience, and talk to men and women Is a women punished more than a man for doing things? Ask a societal question and asking the character What makes a human strong? A Love Letter to Reading And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor Patreons:  https://patreon.com/valerieihsan    https://patreon.com/strangeairmysteries Tools: ProWriting Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/?afid=9378 (affiliate link)

Kristina and Anna unpack how the Inner Villain system shows up in everyday life: time blindness, rule-set clashes, obsessive “fixing,” and the loneliness of divide-and-conquer living. Kristina shares how mold, town history, and nervous-system patterns mirrored the Evasive Expert arc—and the practical “FUNNY” framework she and Luke use to slow down, reconnect, and shift out of overthinking. Anna explores the Righteous Bully, Obedient Critic, Nothing (Invisible Destroyer), and Eternal Child dynamics in relationships, with concrete tools for timing difficult conversations. Together they sketch common pairings between villains, why some arcs magnetize each other, and how to convert shadow patterns into serviceable strengths.Chapter Markers00:00 Checking in: ego death, gratitude as daily practice02:23 Why the Villain work feels more useful than “primal wounds” alone04:58 Anti-heroes and arcs: we're rarely pinnacle villains for long05:58 What is time blindness and how it strains relationships08:49 Calendar blindness vs time blindness09:58 Time for mortals: insights from Four Thousand Weeks (Oliver Burkeman)11:58 Estimation traps, executive function, and project-management “laws”13:58 Tools: timers, delayed conversations, and tech to protect relationships15:00 The Evasive Expert must slow down: decompression blocks and focus holds16:48 Safety, protection, and the urge to “fix it now”18:00 Cities, homes, couples as arcs; mapping a house as Evasive Expert21:45 Diagnostic combos: how 7-8-9 become “advanced” villains24:50 Obedient Critic rabbit holes and living by rule sets27:15 Laws of nature over personal rules; the Law of Procession31:40 Case study: two Obedient Critics and the family rule set clash33:50 Couples and houses as Villain ecosystems39:00 The FUNNY framework to invert the Evasive Expert44:10 Golden Hour: shared effort to reduce isolation50:10 Righteous Bully with the Nothing: common pairing patterns54:15 Other frequent pairings and why they happen58:40 Meme break: naming the villains with humor1:03:10 Working with parts: IFS, deconditioning, and flipping subtypes1:06:15 Homework and next episode: communicating with each villainKey Concepts & ToolsTime Blindness vs Calendar BlindnessTime blindness: difficulty perceiving passing minutes and sequencing tasks.Calendar blindness: difficulty tracking dates, planning horizons, and overlaps.Villain Arcs (selected)Obedient Critic (OC): lives by rigid rule sets; seeks correction and order. Legend: Equalizer.Vengeful Martyr (VM): over-gives to earn belonging; nourishes, then resents.Eternal Child (EC): entitled to care; toggles anxious/avoidant; covert romantic.Righteous Bully (RB): fusion of VM + OC; imposes “right” for safety and control.Evasive Expert (EE): over-intellectualizes, compartmentalizes; feelings drive from underground.Invisible Destroyer / The Nothing (ID): EE + Divisive Immortal; withdrawal, disappearance.Hungry Shapeshifter (HS): attention-seeking blend of Vain Controller + Eternal Child.Common Pairings (why they attract)RB + ID (Nothing): control/pursuit meets withdrawal; each amplifies the other.VM + EC: Wendy and Peter; nourishment meets eternal dependency.EE + Divisive Immortal: logic and safety bind; loyalty sustains low intimacy.HS + ID/EE: performance pairs with a quieter partner who recedes.Practical ToolsTimers & Alarms: outsource time perception to protect relationships.Deferred Conflict Scheduling: drop a calendar note to discuss when regulated.Decompression Blocks: 15-minute buffers after sessions to downshift.Golden Hour: whole-family or couple co-work on one project to restore “together energy.”Framework: FUNNY (to invert the Evasive Expert)F — Free: create time and space to slow down.U — United: do unpleasant tasks together; reduce divide-and-conquer loneliness.N — Nuanced: reject all-or-nothing; find middle paths.N — Natural: return to body signals and instinct, not just cognition.Y — You: keep it personal and present; ask, “Is this funny?” as a shorthand check.Quotes“You don't save your kid from pain. You help them become the leader of their own system.”“The Evasive Expert can't think its way out. It has to slow down.”“Repetition isn't punishment. It's practice.”“Have a honey-driven life. Purpose arrives at 90 degrees.”References & MentionsOliver Burkeman, Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for MortalsInternal Family Systems (IFS) for working with partsLaw of Procession (purpose arrives indirectly)Loki (Marvel), Vision, Agatha as archetypal studies of time and shadowMarshall Thurber TedxTalk MelbourneTakeawaysIdentify whether your issue is time blindness, calendar blindness, or both. Choose tools accordingly.When you feel the urge to correct, schedule the talk instead. Protect the bond first.Map your home, town, or relationship as an arc. Ask what gift already emerged from the “problem.”Use FUNNY to invert overthinking into connection.Diagnose pair dynamics. If you are RB and your partner tends to Nothing, design pauses, gentle bids, and agreements around withdrawal and pursuit.HomeworkTake the Villain quiz: identify your primary arc and your partner's.Try one decompression block today and one Golden Hour this week.Journal: Which rule sets are mine, which are borrowed, and which align with laws of nature.Next EpisodeHow to communicate with each villain type without escalating the spin.Episode CreditsHosts: Kristina Wiltsee and Anna StromquistSeries: Inner Villain, Inner RepairSEO Keywordstime blindness, calendar blindness, evasive expert, righteous bully, obedient critic, invisible destroyer, eternal child, inner villain system, IFS, Oliver Burkeman, four thousand weeks, relationship communication, nervous system regulationAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

How POV Affects Your Story PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 ***   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): launching my four-month book coaching container Aligned Author TODAY. The price is drastically cut this week (it's $667 off the regular price.) Go to valerieihsan.com/alignedauthor for all the details.  Write in the Harbor conference is coming up (2 presentations to prep for) feeling some feelings lately about the finality of the move and the recognition of Last Times I Will See/Do ...  Also having some "Get over it" feelings about not showing up online. I used to show up more in pictures and words on social media and blogged (wrote a lot of personal essays), and since I've become a published author (Erick):  running google ads and qualifying potential clients polishing stories up for omnibus edition Ghost Story Weekend (Newport) What are you reading? Valerie:  Just finished:   The Witch of Willow Sound Wild Dark Shore (Charlotte McConaghy) Creative Act (Rick Rubin)  (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman;  Erick:  • Summer of Night (Dan Simmons) My Favorite Thing is Monsters (gn)   Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1:  Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes: POV = promise: what intimacy, information, and bias will the reader get? • 1st = interiority + voice; close 3rd = balance of interior/exterior; omniscient = scope + theme. The camera test: what can the narrator see/know/believe in this scene? • Ban anything they couldn't realistically perceive; use misbeliefs to create tension. Distance is a dial, not a switch: • Zoom in (sensory, thought-beat, micro-movements) for emotion; zoom out (summary, context) for pace/theme. POV shifts = scene breaks + reason: • Change only to add net new conflict, clue, or consequence. Track continuity of diction and metaphor. Try this: rewrite a 200-word scene in 1st, close 3rd, and omniscient. • Ask: which version delivers the most tension, clarity, and theme resonance?   And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor Patreons:  https://patreon.com/valerieihsan    https://patreon.com/strangeairmysteries Tools: ProWriting Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/?afid=9378 (affiliate link)

Main Topic:  Finding Voice and Author Identity Through Social Media, with guest Anne Abel. PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 ***   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): launching my four-month book coaching container Aligned Author TODAY. The price is drastically cut this week (it's $667 off the regular price.) Go to valerieihsan.com/alignedauthor for all the details.  Write in the Harbor conference is coming up  (Erick):  running google ads and qualifying potential clients polishing stories up for omnibus edition Anne: book launch  What are you reading? Valerie:  Just finished:    Creative Act (Rick Rubin)  (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman;  Erick:  Down the River Unto the Sea (Walter Moseley) Summer of Night (Dan Simmons)   Anne's Read: YellowFace, Entitlement (Aman) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1:  Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes: Anne's IG page: instagram.com/annesimaabel   Memoir and social media are the same to me in terms of what I'm posting; openly share about mental health (that how I began); by sharing stories and share hope Shorter the better (video on IG and TikTok). 3 minutes max.  Innovation and Hope TED Talk, social media opened up my world (origin story, transformation, be proud of); ideas: say YES; do your best  Reels, hook, social media isn't writing -- talk about what excites you instead of focusing on writer's block.  Just do your best.   And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor Patreons:  https://patreon.com/valerieihsan    https://patreon.com/strangeairmysteries Tools: ProWriting Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/?afid=9378 (affiliate link)

(Valerie): launching my four-month book coaching container Aligned Author TODAY. The price is drastically cut this week (it's $667 off the regular price, and for 24 hours only starting now, the paid in full price -- with an extra whole month of coaching for free and ANOTHER LIVE discount on top-- is $1333 for FIVE months of coaching. The price will never be this low again. There is also a monthly payment option. Go to valerieihsan.com/alignedauthor for all the details. The replay to last night's masterclass The Alchemy of Memory is up for another 24 hours, and then it goes away, along with the LIVE Launch price. Aligned Author officially starts on Wednesday, October 22nd, so the special Launch price will be in affect only until then. Secret podcast is in the works (it's actually a secret memoir). Working on two at the same time (in true Generator, Aries, Futurist fashion): Pura Vida Bound project chronicling our move to Costa Rica (never written a live memoir before), and this secret one that I'm not ready to talk about. getting rid of furniture and starting to paint inside this week; Ali's been working on touching up the paint outside and painting the fascia boards for under the new gutters. Hired the shipping company, our shipping pickup date is December 15 (a Monday), and then we'll leave after that. Getting ready for our going away party, doubling as Rental Ready date. Write in the Harbor conference is coming up (still need to rental a place for that!) (Erick):  What are you reading? Valerie:  Just finished:    Sounds Like Love (Ashley Poston) Creative Act (Rick Rubin)  (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman;  Erick: Voice of the Fire (Alan Moore) Lost in the Dark (Brad Weismann) Gettysburg: The Last Invasion   Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1:  Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes:   And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor Patreons:  https://patreon.com/valerieihsan    https://patreon.com/strangeairmysteries Tools: ProWriting Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/?afid=9378 (affiliate link)

Oliver Burkeman is a British writer and former Guardian columnist best known for Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, exploring how accepting life's limits beats chasing productivity hacks.We recorded this right before Oliver's show, crammed into his dressing room at the Assembly Rooms. It's intimate, honest, and very Origin Story: where did these ideas come from, and how do they shape a life you're proud of? Oliver (author of 4,000 Weeks) takes us past productivity hacks to acceptance, attention, and the power of choosing enough.In this episodeThe efficiency trap: why getting faster just attracts more work“Life task”: finding your next right thing with the resources you actually havePlanning that breathes (navigation, not micromanagement)Daily-ish over streaks—the kinder path to consistencyHobbies done for their own sake (the case for atelic joy)Attention over productivity: designing a week that actually feels goodAI, inboxes, and why “caught up” is a myth--Tell me in the comments: what would you cut this week if you truly accepted you'll never be on top of everything?Support the showEarly access & bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/davidmcintoshjrFollow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmcintoshjr

Free masterclass: The Alchemy of Memory — Writing the Hybrid Memoir (Wed, Oct 8, 2025). Learn to braid personal narrative with research, family history, and big ideas—plus structures, privacy choices, and momentum tools. Includes a short meditation + oracle card pull. Save your seat → valerieihsan.com/hybrid   ***   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): planning my free masterclass on hybrid memoir writing for October 8th. (Erick): booked all the conferences for the rest of the year; new ghostwriting ads; working on new series of stories;  What are you reading? Valerie:  (need recommendations for audio books) Just finished:   The Seven Miracles of Beatrix Holland (Rachael Herron) Sounds Like Love (Ashley Poston) Creative Act (Rick Rubin)  (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman;  Erick: Voice of the Fire (Alan Moore) Lost in the Dark (Brad Weismann) Gettysburg: The Last Invasion gaming books (DnD campaign) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1:  Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes:   Mindset as a customer vs the provider: Customer: 1. Know what you need 2. Know where you are in process 3. Know how you are talking to 4. Have willingness to learn what I don't know; Provider: 1. Identify what client needs 2. Can I provide that 3. Build rapport 4. Where does the job fit in the calendar? 5. Signing the contract   Hiring and Firing (+ screening process): start with identifying what the client needs. (Receiving 5 or 6 emails a week.) Screen out those that don't have an idea of what they want, unrealistic expectations (always unhappy with results); build relationships/collaborations; sub-contractor contracts because too many anchor projects; referral service/hub -- writer running a writing business; Know what you are willing to do   Red Flags: need too much education around industry (pie in the sky expectations); respect and value for the work/time/energy; wants something that you don't know how to do or don't want to offer (do you need the $, try it and see if you like it);    Forecasting Jobs: anchor jobs and satellite jobs   Ideal Client: temperament, communication, adaptability, rapport (educated about writing a plus), open to suggestions, know what they want   And don't forget: Free masterclass: The Alchemy of Memory — Writing the Hybrid Memoir (Wed, Oct 8, 2025). Learn to braid personal narrative with research, family history, and big ideas—plus structures, privacy choices, and momentum tools. Includes a short meditation + oracle card pull. Save your seat → valerieihsan.com/hybrid   Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor Patreons:  https://patreon.com/valerieihsan    https://patreon.com/strangeairmysteries Tools: ProWriting Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/?afid=9378 (affiliate link

Oliver Burkeman is a journalist, author and former “productivity geek.” His bestselling book Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals outlines a saner approach to managing your time in a world of never-ending demands and distractions.  On this week's episode of Everyday Better, Oliver explains why all of the tools and techniques meant to save us time and maximize our productivity ultimately make us feel more stressed and short on time. Oliver argues that the only time management technique that works involves recognizing that you'll never feel on top of things. But once you accept that, you can actually start crossing things off of your to-do list—and he has strategies for how to do that as well. If you liked this episode, check out Leah's exercise for taking control of your calendar through “time crafting.”Follow Leah Smart and Oliver Burkeman on LinkedIn.

Main Topic:  “Intentionality in Writing: Hendrika de Vries on Resistance, Feminism, and Telling the Truth” PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 ***  Free masterclass: The Alchemy of Memory — Writing the Hybrid Memoir (Wed, Oct 8, 2025). Learn to braid personal narrative with research, family history, and big ideas—plus structures, privacy choices, and momentum tools. Includes a short meditation + oracle card pull. Save your seat → valerieihsan.com/hybrid   ***   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): prepping for yard sale; planning my free masterclass on hybrid memoir writing for October 8th. (Erick): Southwest Writers Conference speaking gig last weekend, working on new conference pitches; (What can I create new for them?); new Google ads running right now for ghostwriting and editing (Henrika): Santa Barbara writing community; Chicago Lit Festival (met with other She Writes Press writers)  What are you reading? Valerie:  Unstuck (Rachael Herron) (need recommendations for audio books) Just finished:    Creative Act (Rick Rubin)  (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman;  Erick: Voice of the Fire (Alan Moore) Lost in the Dark (Brad Weismann) Gettysburg: The Last Invasion (Hendrika): Swimming Pretty (history of aquatic swimming by Vicki Valosik); Why We Swim (Bonnie Tsui) (how we lose our differences); Black Cake (Charmaine Wilkerson)(protagonist is a swimmer) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1:  Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes:   Hendrika is a retired family therapist, a teacher, and a writer, chronicling her life experiences with oppression and resistance in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, migration, competitive swimming, and misogyny in 1950s Australia. A fierce feminist and activist, de Vries infuses her writing with historical depth and personal perspective on challenges facing women and anyone deemed other. She is the author of When a Toy Dog Became a Wolf and the Moon Broke Curfew, award-winning memoir of her WWII childhood. Her writing has also appeared in The New York Times and the LA Times. She lives in Santa Barbara, CA. Find out more about her at www.agirlfromamsterdam.com. 2019 Mary Sarton Women's Book Award winner 2019 Nautilus Award for Memoir and Personal Journey winner Non-fiction Author Association Gold 2020 Eric Hoffer First Horizon and Culture award winner 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Finalist - Memoirs  2021 NYC Big Book Awards winner - Memoir and Young Adult Non-fiction    Intentionality in Writing: Hendrika de Vries on Resistance, Feminism, and Telling the Truth   Valerie's notes: They aren't just our stories. How have other people done this? How our story relates to the human story. Allowed the little girl to have a voice. How to structure to allow the reader relate to inner experience. intuitive writer, start with notes, jot down memories, voice arrives (I was walking; I was unhappy, how does this relate); authentic voice is how it starts, gradually themes show up. Layers.  Differences between essay and memoir (angry vs what is the story here) learn life-saving: look at the risks, sometimes when you try to save someone, they'll try to drown you. face life as an athlete, commitment and dedication, couldn't translate to writing process (haha), grab time, 11-2 magic time to write, set aside time a few times a week to write (let the story come); think about it while swimming and walking;  risk life to follow values but measuring the risk;  "truth-telling is activist resistance" (Bruce Lipton); The Year of Living Kindly (Donna Cameron) my childhood experiences were psychological examples of resistance: how do we move through difficult times; is memoir self-indulgent? 2017 saw Neo-nazis walking in Virginia then knew others needed to hear about my story because I didn't think this could ever happen again; themes/resistance/loss/what sustains us? How do we create these turning points? How do these define us? Focus on the human resistance (victimhood wasn't allowed); find the good moments; pacing in the story (and our lives) mixing the trauma with tenderness and humor. Find the light in the moments. Don't do it alone. Writers conferences and being with other writers. Share stories and being in community, stimulates our writing, not being afraid to share. Find your community.  Robert Jay Lifton:  "Surviving Our Catastrophes"    Henrik's first memoir: When a Toy Dog Became a Wolf and the Moon Broke Curfew (also available in audio now) “Open Turns: From Dutch Girl to New Australian” Hendrika de Vries | September 2, 2025 | She Writes Press | Memoir  Paperback | 978-1647429508 | $17.99  Ebook | 978-1647429515 | $12.99      And don't forget: Free masterclass: The Alchemy of Memory — Writing the Hybrid Memoir (Wed, Oct 8, 2025). Learn to braid personal narrative with research, family history, and big ideas—plus structures, privacy choices, and momentum tools. Includes a short meditation + oracle card pull. Save your seat → valerieihsan.com/hybrid   Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor Patreons:  https://patreon.com/valerieihsan    https://patreon.com/strangeairmysteries Tools: ProWriting Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/?afid=9378 (affiliate link)

Today, Eric shares five standout books he read this summer. As a passionate reader of 25–30 books a year, he found these books particularly impactful for both business and life. The Last Lecture — Randy Pausch & Jeffrey Zaslow This moving and timeless book was written by computer science professor Randy Pausch, as his final lecture after getting a terminal diagnosis. It blends philosophy, practical wisdom, and personal stories, offering lessons on living with purpose, nurturing relationships, and leaving a legacy. It is a book to hold onto for life, and to pass on to the next generation. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals — Oliver Burkeman Burkeman reframes time management by reminding us we only have about 4,000 weeks on earth. Instead of chasing endless productivity, he shows how to prioritize what truly matters. The book combines humor, philosophy, and practical tools for blocking, organizing, and auditing time. It is valuable for both business and personal life. Living with a SEAL: 31 Days Training with the Toughest Man on the Planet — Jesse Itzler In this book, entrepreneur Jesse Itzler recounts a month of intense training with a Navy SEAL. His experience is raw, funny, and motivating, pushing readers to go beyond excuses and embrace discipline, resilience, and grit. It is a high-energy reminder that we are capable of far more than we think. Make Your Own Luck: Success Tactics You Won't Learn in Business School — Peter Kash Written by entrepreneur and venture capitalist Peter Kash, this book explores how to create luck by preparing, persevering, and being open to opportunity. Through vivid personal stories, he shows how readiness and mindset can transform challenges into breakthroughs. It is a guide to moving forward, even in uncertain times. Fool Me Once: Scams, Stories, and Secrets from the Trillion-Dollar Fraud Industry — Kelly Richmond Pope In this book, forensic accounting professor Kelly Richmond Pope reveals the hidden world of fraud, from small-town scandals to billion-dollar schemes. Drawing on her TED Talk and Netflix documentary All the Queen's Horses, she highlights the risks of misplaced trust and the importance of vigilance in business. It is an eye-opening and essential read for entrepreneurs. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Book links: The Last Lecture Four Thousand Weeks Living with a SEAL Make Your Own Luck Fool Me Once  

Send us a textSeason 4, Episode 10 - Living Your 4000 WeeksHow many weeks do you have left? Today's episode takes a deep dive into Oliver Burkeman's Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and what it means for clergy, caregivers, and anyone who feels life slipping by while waiting for “someday.”We'll explore:The math of mortality—4,000 weeks and why it matters.The trap of waiting and how postponed living robs us of joy.Embracing our limits as a spiritual discipline, not a weakness.Practical shifts for living with more depth, presence, and meaning.If you've ever felt stuck on autopilot, this conversation is your invitation to stop waiting and start living now.

Main Topic:  How to Write a Book That Grows Your Business and Honors Your Spirit (Help soul-led entrepreneurs see how writing a book can amplify their work without losing authenticity or feeling salesy.) PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): I've been getting a lot of hits from the universe in the form of repeated messaging that I need to triple down on the the learning in public. I just can't wait until my life and mission statement is perfect before I show up online with a lesson neatly tied with a bow. First, that just prevents me from posting anything. Second, I'm hearing a lot lately that people aren't looking for gurus anymore. They don't want perfection. They can't relate to that. They want to watch the messy middle, and when I heard that (again), the realization hit. I write memoirs about how I got through something and what I learned along the way. I read memoirs so that I can see how they got through something. I want to be inspired by watching (reading) them pull themselves out of the mire and accomplish something difficult, because I want to do that too. "We just want to see real women figuring it out." (Tatyana Gosh) So, I'm going to start really showing up online with the messiness of humanity, and without the lessons already learned. My goal is everyday on IG. A reel, post, or story. Preferably multiples. • I met with colleague yesterday, another coach, and she said something that I immediately wrote down: If I show up imperfect, that doesn't mean bad. I've been so focused on trying to rewrite my limiting belief around perfection = professional, that I didn't take it a step further. Why do I think that if I'm imperfect, I'm bad? Side note: "Who doesn't like a badass woman?" (Tatyana Gosh) (Erick):  What are you reading? Valerie: Just finished:   The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About (Mel Robbins) Creative Act (Rick Rubin) and Anne Abel's new book High Hopes (out in September .. She'll be on the podcast again in October). (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman; The Year of the Puppy (Alexandra Horowitz) ;  The Teller of Small Fortunes Julie Leong  Erick:  Devil in a Blue Dress (Walter Mosely); Hap and Leonard (stories) (Joe Lansdale)   Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1:  Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes: The problem with traditional “business book” advice Focused on funnels, not fulfillment Often strips the soul from the message Too rigid for creative, intuitive entrepreneurs “If the book reads like a sales page, it's probably not honoring the deeper mission.” What it really means to write a soul-aligned book that supports your business The book becomes a bridge between your inner truth and outer impact Writing from your why positions you as an authority with depth—not just expertise “People buy from those they connect with. Your book is a bridge, not a billboard.” Ways your book can grow your business authentically Builds credibility + trust with aligned clients Deepens your brand story and your core message Expands your reach without burnout (your book travels when you can't) “You're not marketing. You're storytelling. And that's magnetic.”   Let your business offer inform your book—not dictate it Use client patterns and questions to uncover themes Let your unique framework or transformation process shape the content (not just regurgitate) Bonus: You may create your next offer through writing the book Writing How-To Books (Three Story Method series) Avoiding the trap of performance Write with your audience in mind, not for their approval Let go of “shoulds” and write from soul-led service • Examples of what alignment looks like in practice Including rituals, reflections, or creative practices in your book Speaking directly to your dream client as if you're in sacred conversation Closing encouragement: You don't have to choose between success and soul. Your book can hold both. The more you write from your essence, the more magnetic your business becomes “When you write to be liked, you dilute your magic.” Project Runway fails are usually because they didn't stay "true to themselves as a designer" and it show.  

Main Topic:  From Reserved to Ravishing: Writing Spicy Scenes That Still Feel True to You (with guest HR Cole) PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): no go on a workshop I pitched; working to get quotes for shipping companies (it's not as straight forward as I thought); thinking about content and documenting our trip and the prep of it (memoir) (Erick):  What are you reading? Valerie: Just finished:  Creative Act (Rick Rubin) and Anne Abel's new book High Hopes (out in September .. She'll be on the podcast again in October).  The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About (Mel Robbins) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman; The Year of the Puppy (Alexandra Horowitz) ;  The Teller of Small Fortunes Julie Leong  Erick:  Devil in a Blue Dress (Walter Mosely); Hap and Leonard (stories) (Joe Lansdale) Hope (H.R. Cole):  Into Thin Air (John Krakauer) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1:  Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes: H.R. Cole is a Pennsylvania native who completed her first (handwritten) fantasy novel at the age of twelve. She's remained an avid writer and has one published middle grade novel and a successful health journalism career. Cole lives with her husband, dogs, and cats in mountainous Upstate New York.   www.hrcole.com   http://www.instagram.com/hidden.gems.books    Plot where it goes, and the choreography of the scene, what are my non-negotiables? Use it showcase character traits that show up in intimate times. What do I want to portray in this scene?   1. Goal (character development) (ex: kindness? Make a list of how to showcase kindness.)  2. True to self 3. True to character (make a list of words that are appropriate)(Are they seasoned lovers or innocent?)   Fight scenes and sex scenes have some similarities. Common mistakes: Boring, gloss over, not relevant   What makes a good sex scene? Humanize the character Describe details without words that shock you or take you out of the story. Natural. Aligned with personal experience.   Don't feel the speed bump going into the scene.   Follow the Golden Rules of writing just as you would in any other scene. Use the same language in the spicy scenes as the rest of the book.   Shorter sentences in action scenes. Sure. But use the same type of language.   Go through the process of char dev for a reason. Know your character. It pays off when you get to the more complicated scenes (fight, action, sex). Inherent traits. Did I stay true to this character? Did I learn something about a character? Nice place to set up the psychology of a character. Vulnerable scenes are where we learn about the character. Character insight no where else.   What about flashbacks in the scene? (Sentence of thought, convey emotions/doubt)   Getting feedback on spicy scenes: assess the comfort levels of critique partners, warn ahead of time, what's the best way to send this to you. Make it part of your group culture.    Romantasy (fantasy with a strong romantic plot); The Chalice and the Blade series (romantic fantasy)(instead of fantastical romance); tough marketing term because romantasy doesn't necessarily have an HEA.   Spice levels up front in marketing copy. Keywords: romantic fantasy    Be proud of your sex scenes. It's okay to explore it.   And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor

  Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): hard stuff at home (sharing that with my patrons, and a little on social media)  (Erick):  What are you reading? Valerie: Just finished: Austin Kleon's Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad Creative Act (Rick Rubin) and Anne Abel's new book High Hopes (out in September .. She'll be on the podcast again in October). (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman; The Year of the Puppy (Alexandra Horowitz) ;  The Teller of Small Fortunes Julie Leong  Erick:   Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes: Today's episode is about legacy. Not the legacy of awards or bestseller lists. But the kind of legacy that changes hearts. That shifts the field. That ripples out long after you're gone. When you write your book — the real one — you're not just capturing information. You're encoding energy. You're creating a guide. A lighthouse. An invitation. Your book becomes a place someone can go to feel less alone. It becomes a spell, a balm, a declaration. It says, "I've been there too. And here's what I learned." You're not just writing a book. You're writing your book. And that distinction changes everything. Sometimes people come to me and say, “I just want to get it out of my head.” “I want to use it as a business card.” “I want to boost my visibility.” And all of those reasons are valid. In fact, your book can help grow your reach. It can become a doorway to speaking, teaching, building a body of work. But here's the thing: When you write from alignment… from soul… from truth… You don't just get visibility. You get peace. You get clarity. You get momentum, energy, fulfillment. You become more you. Because you're not performing. You're not proving. You're remembering. And that's when your book becomes a legacy. Not because of how many copies it sells — But because of how many lives it touches. Aligned Author isn't a writing bootcamp. It's a sacred, strategic container for birthing the book you were born to write. This is where structure meets intuition. Where craft meets soul. Where resistance meets ritual. Inside Aligned Author, you receive: A sacred 60–90 minute strategy session to clarify your soul's vision A custom action plan that honors your unique creative rhythm Weekly 1:1 coaching sessions (recorded for your reflection) Story structure guidance + intuitive insight + business strategy Meditations, writing exercises, and oracle-based support Ongoing mentorship and accountability — weekly, monthly, and via direct messaging Access to group calls for reflection and celebration And most importantly… You'll walk away with a book that feels like truth. Not just something you wrote… but something you became. So if you're ready — If you're done circling the dream… If you're ready to stop doubting and start devoting... I'd be honored to walk beside you. You can book your Soul Strategy Session today at valerieihsan.com, or DM me @valerieihsan on Instagram. Your story is sacred. Your voice is needed. And your book is waiting to be written — not someday, but now. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Whether you choose to write with me, or on your own, I hope you remember this: You are not here to write like everyone else. You are here to write like you. Because the book you were born to write… Was born for someone who's waiting to read it. Until we meet again — Be brave. Be true. Be writing.   Next Episode: From Reserved to Ravishing: Writing Spicy Scenes That Still Feel True to You (with guest HR Cole)     And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor

BEST OF In an effort to make time for ourselves, many of us fall back on using To Do lists and time blocking. But often these strategies can end up with the same result: getting lost in chasing productivity. So how do we make time for the things that truly count? Oliver Burkeman is a New York Times bestselling author of books such as ‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals’ and ‘Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts’. Oliver is also a regular columnist for The Guardian. If there is anyone who truly understands the philosophy and psychology of time management and happiness, it’s Oliver. Oliver shares: The mindset you should be using when you first approach a task if you want it to be achieved easily How you can free up time by minimising time spent on worrying The strategy you should be utilising instead of a to-do list to actually create a sense of achievement Why being open to distractions can actually be beneficial Key Quotes:“Don’t start from the position that unexpected things happening must be bad.” “There is this tendency to set things up in your mind so that you can never feel like you’ve done something well enough.” Connect with Oliver via his website, or get his latest book, Meditations for Mortals, here My latest book The Health Habit is out now. You can order a copy here: https://www.amantha.com/the-health-habit/ Connect with me on the socials: Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanthaimber) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amanthai) If you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work and live, I write a weekly newsletter where I share practical and simple to apply tips to improve your life. You can sign up for that at https://amantha-imber.ck.page/subscribe Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at amantha@inventium.com.au Credits: Host: Amantha Imber Sound Engineer: Martin Imber See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 310 You Will Discover: Why chasing "caught up" is holding you back - and how to reframe this perspective for greater spaciousness and freedom in your days A powerful daily practice that helps you transition from work mode to rest The art of "done for now" thinking and accepting unfinished work, plus how it can transform your relationship with tasks and time management Links From The Podcast Learn more about private coaching here Learn more about We're Busy Being Awesome here Get the top 10 tips to work with your ADHD brain (free ebook!) Discover my favorite ADHD resources Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Planning System Get the I'm Busy Being Awesome Podcast Roadmap Take my free course, ADHD Routine Revamp Oliver Burkeman's Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts Oliver Burkeman's Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure info here. Leave IBBA A Rating & Review! If you enjoy the podcast, would you be a rockstar and leave a review? Doing so helps others find the show and spreads these tools to even more people. Go to Apple Podcasts Click on the I'm Busy Being Awesome podcast Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you see the reviews. Simply tap five stars; that's it! Bonus points if you're willing to leave a few sentences sharing what you enjoy about the podcast or a key takeaway from the episode you just heard. Thanks, friend! Chapter Outline 00:00 Introduction: The Never-Ending To-Do List 01:09 The Mirage of Being Caught Up 03:40 Welcome to the Podcast 04:06 The Haitian Proverb: Beyond Mountains 06:09 Personal Struggles with Productivity 09:05 The 4:55 PM Alarm: A New Practice 11:36 Embracing the Unfinished 13:48 Reframing Productivity 17:08 The Grief of Letting Go 19:17 Closing Thoughts and Gentle Questions 21:27 Final Words and Resources

Got a burning creative project? Face your finitude, says this productivity expert, by learning to number your days. Everyone is pressed for time, and in a never-ending quest to conquer their schedules. It's why productivity tips and hacks are big business these days.But underneath our productivity problem is a reality no one wants to face: the fact that we're all going to die, argues self-described “recovering” productivity expert Oliver Burkeman, and the author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. The average human life is about 80 years, or some 4000 weeks, and the sooner we come to grips with the ultimate deadline, the better off we'll be, argues Burkeman.In this interview with Life & Faith, Oliver explains how “mortality” emerged as a theme for his 2021 book, how the solace of “deep time” – as experienced during times of flow, prayer, meditation, and hiking – connects us with our humanity, how AI might change the game for human creativity, and how he, as someone more drawn to Eastern religion, makes sense of our yearning for more time, for more than one life.The shadow of Christianity – with its promise of transcendence, eternity, and being situated in an unfolding story that stretches before and after our earthly lives – looms over the conversation.Explore Oliver Burkeman's Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for MortalsOliver Burkeman's Meditations for Mortals: A Four Week Guide to Doing What CountsOliver Burkeman's website

Worrying can take up so much of our time, especially when most of what we worry about never actually happens. This worrying uses up time that could be better spent on the things that truly count, but how can we reduce this and actually free up that time? Oliver Burkeman is a New York Times bestselling author of books such as ‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals’ and ‘Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts’. Oliver is also a regular columnist for The Guardian. Oliver shares:

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your to‑do list? This episode is truly the best productivity advice you'll ever receive because it's built on a foundation of self-compassion. It's  Oliver Burkeman exposes why mainstream time management hacks fail and how accepting your human finitude liberates you to be meaningfully productive.You will learn how to...redefine productivity beyond endless to‑do listsditch hustle culture, but still do what matters mostapproach time management with self-acceptance and self-compassionunlock mental shifts that free you from perfectionism, anxiety, and overwhelmcare about the world's problems without succumbing to paralyzing despairRemember: One day, you will die with an unfinished to-do list. No amount of productivity hacks will avoid that. Let this truth liberate you to focus on what truly matters and approach your workload with self-acceptance, self-compassion, and self-love.OLIVER BURKEMAN is the acclaimed author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts. His earlier works include The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking and HELP! How to Become Slightly Happier and Get a Bit More Done. For years, he penned the Guardian column “This Column Will Change Your Life,” and his writing has been featured in the Observer, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Psychologies magazine, and New Philosopher. A former Brooklyn resident, Oliver now lives with his wife and son in England's North York Moors.Sign up for Oliver's newsletter, The Imperfectionist Please get yourself copies of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals!!And if you enjoyed this episode, screenshot it and share it on social media! Make sure to tag @maryspodcastMentioned In This Episode...Productivity for Self-Lovers, Ep. 125 on Mary's Cup of Tea PodcastElizabeth Gilbert's book Eat, Pray, LoveElizabeth Gilbert's book, CommittedResonance: A Sociology of Our Relationship to the World by Hartmut RosaNew York Times article on NoveltySlow Productivity by Cal NewportAre We Still Empathic if We Don't Take Action?

How can we embrace the limitations of time and the certainty of death and create real fulfillment that thrives on an honest assessment of our human predicament? These are the questions at the heart of this episode. Ethan welcomes back bestselling author and journalist Oliver Burkeman for a discussion of finitude, death, limitations, productivity, and dueling concepts of the meaning of meditation.  Oliver Burkeman is the author of Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts, and the bestselling Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, is now available. Oliver wrote a long-running weekly column on psychology for The Guardian, "This Column Will Change Your Life," and his work has also appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Psychologies, and New Philosopher. Learn more about him at oliverburkeman.com, and subscribe to his regular newsletter, The Imperfectionist. Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Meditation Group starts up again on May 15th, and a special podcast/meditation on “Intuition” will be released to paid subscribers this Friday, May 2nd. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc). Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training program beginning June 13th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download. 

Why did Charles Darwin, Virginia Woolf, and Henri Poincaré all follow the same four-hour rule? In this episode, bestselling author Oliver Burkeman returns to explain why three to four hours of focused work might be the secret to productivity and peace. Access the bonus episode: https://nudge.kit.com/d4e55ac69d You'll learn: The 3–4 hour rule: why it worked for Darwin, Trollope, and Dickens and still works today. How to tackle overwhelming tasks with a simple mental trick called “just go to the shed.” Why keeping a “done list” might be more motivating than a to-do list (feat. Marie Curie). How inboxes, perfectionism, and productivity guilt trap us in modern-day Sisyphus cycles. The two-part system Oliver uses to stay focused, without feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of life. ---  Access the bonus episode: https://nudge.kit.com/d4e55ac69d Sign up to my newsletter: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/mailing-list Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phill-agnew-22213187/ Watch Nudge on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nudgepodcast/ Oliver's book Four Thousand Weeks: https://www.oliverburkeman.com/fourthousandweeks Oliver's book Meditation for Mortals: https://www.oliverburkeman.com/meditationsformortals ---  Sources:  Burkeman, O. (2021). Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. Burkeman, O. (2024). Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

Acclaimed author and journalist Oliver Burkeman has captivated readers with his refreshing insights on how to embrace the finiteness of existence and find meaning in the everyday. Author of the bestselling book Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and formerly a columnist for the Guardian, Burkeman challenges conventional productivity advice, offering a more realistic perspective on how to live well. In April 2025 Burkeman came to the Intelligence Squared stage, where he was in conversation with Financial Times Columnist Tim Harford, to discuss Meditation for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts – the sequel to Four Thousand Weeks. Together, they explored how letting go of the relentless pursuit of productivity and accepting our imperfections can lead to a more fulfilling life. ----- This is the first instalment of a two-part episode. If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full ad free conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events ... Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Acclaimed author and journalist Oliver Burkeman has captivated readers with his refreshing insights on how to embrace the finiteness of existence and find meaning in the everyday. Author of the bestselling book Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and formerly a columnist for the Guardian, Burkeman challenges conventional productivity advice, offering a more realistic perspective on how to live well. In April 2025 Burkeman came to the Intelligence Squared stage, where he was in conversation with Financial Times Columnist Tim Harford, to discuss Meditation for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts – the sequel to Four Thousand Weeks. Together, they explored how letting go of the relentless pursuit of productivity and accepting our imperfections can lead to a more fulfilling life. ------ This is the first instalment of a two-part episode. If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full ad free conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events ... Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adrienne is looking back at some of her favourite Power Hour episodes from years gone by!Oliver Burkeman worked for many years at The Guardian, where he wrote a popular weekly column on psychology, “This Column Will Change Your Life.” His books include the New York Times bestseller Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking. Oliver's new book Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts is described as "A map for a liberating journey toward a more meaningful life―a journey that begins where we actually find ourselves, not with a fantasy of where we'd like to be". It's available no in stores and online. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could staring at a painting for three hours make you more productive?  In this episode, I try a strange experiment inspired by bestselling author Oliver Burkeman. Based on lessons from his book Four Thousand Weeks, I stare at Picasso's Guernica for three hours. No phone, no distractions, just a notepad and mic. Did I go mad?  Access the bonus episode: https://nudge.kit.com/d4e55ac69d You'll learn: Why investing time and effort can increase our appreciation (feat. the Mauritian ritual study). How control impacts happiness, health, and even longevity (feat. nursing home experiment). Why AI and “life-optimising” tools often leave us feeling more stressed, not less. The power of patience (and how to cultivate it in a hyper-distracted world). What happens when you do nothing for three hours… ---- Access the bonus episode: https://nudge.kit.com/d4e55ac69d Watch the 3-hour time lapse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paKup2BuN38 Sign up to my newsletter: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/mailing-list Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phill-agnew-22213187/ Watch Nudge on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nudgepodcast/ Oliver's book Four Thousand Weeks: https://www.oliverburkeman.com/fourthousandweeks Oliver's book Meditation for Mortals: https://www.oliverburkeman.com/meditationsformortals --- Sources: Burkeman, O. (2021). Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. Burkeman, O. (2024). Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. Langer, E. J., & Rodin, J. (1976). The effects of choice and enhanced personal responsibility for the aged: A field experiment in an institutional setting. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 34(2), 191–198. Xygalatas, D., Mitkidis, P., Fischer, R., Reddish, P., Skewes, J., Geertz, A. W., Roepstorff, A., & Bulbulia, J. (2013). Extreme rituals promote prosociality. Psychological Science, 24(8), 1602–1605.

In this energizing episode of Build A Vibrant Culture, host Nicole Greer sits down with virtual assistant guru and author Melissa Smith to demystify the world of virtual assistants (VAs). Whether you're an overwhelmed entrepreneur, a high-performing exec, or someone just tired of doing it all, Melissa offers empowering advice on how the right VA can give you time back, increase your energy, and even save your sanity. From the myths of delegation to the magic of friction-free productivity, Melissa breaks it all down with warmth and wisdom. Plus, she shares exactly how to find, hire, and build a lasting relationship with your ideal VA. (Spoiler: You don't need another “you”—you need your complementary opposite.) She's the author of Hire the Right Virtual Assistant and Become a Successful Virtual Assistant, and she's got the receipts—20+ years of experience, a top 10 inspiring woman in business, and a 98% VA match success rate.Highlights from this episode:[00:02:46] You don't need to be a pro delegator to hire a VA—just have a clear vision. “If you can share your vision, expectations, and walk through things once, the right VA will take it from there.”[00:06:01] Your productivity problem is actually an energy problem. Tasks that drain your energy are stealing your momentum. A VA can handle the friction points—like sending newsletters or booking meetings—so you stay in your zone of genius.[00:34:50] You need someone who complements you. The perfect VA isn't a clone of you. They're someone who loves what you loathe and thrives where you stall. That's the magic of a powerful partnership.Melissa's books:Hire the Right Virtual AssistantBecome a Successful Virtual Assistant FREE COMPLIMENTARY WORKBOOK: https://thepva.com/complimentary-workbook/Connect with Melissa:Website: https://thepva.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissasmiththepva/Email: melissa@thepva.comAlso mentioned in this episode:Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for MortalsUnique Ability® 2.0: Discovery - Define Your Best Self The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't  Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!Please leave us a 5-star review and drop a love note for Melissa in the comments! Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

What if the key to building a thriving law firm wasn't just legal expertise, but mastering the art of influence? In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Doug Burnetti, founding attorney of Burnetti P.A., shares how the book How to Win Friends and Influence People shaped his success in law and leadership. Doug shares how skills like empathy, active listening, and servant leadership are essential in any field. He discusses how attorneys can strengthen client relationships and build high-performing teams by implementing those values. Inspired by Dale Carnegie's wisdom, he explains why treating others with respect, showing genuine interest, and embracing humility lead to a more fulfilling and profitable legal career. Steve and Doug also talk about the power of authentic communication in law firm management, the importance of admitting mistakes to build trust, and legal legend Gerry Spence's storytelling approach to connecting with clients, judges, and juries. Doug goes into strategies for balancing professional success and personal well-being, emphasizing gratitude, leadership growth, and stress reduction. If you're looking to improve client satisfaction, strengthen your leadership skills, and build a more fulfilling legal career, this episode is packed with actionable insights. In this episode, you will hear: Doug Burnetti on the impact of servant leadership and self-help principles on his law practice Insights from Dale Carnegie's “How to Win Friends and Influence People” The importance of empathy, active listening, and authentic communication in legal practice Exploration of Gerry Spence's storytelling techniques to enhance client relationships The role of gratitude and continuous self-improvement in balancing professional and personal well-being Tips for effective leadership, including admitting mistakes and fostering trust within teams Strategies for improving client service and building strong interpersonal relationships Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie: www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034 Episode 108: Breakthrough Growth: How Empathetic Leadership Drives Success with Doug Burnetti: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/breakthrough-growth-how-empathetic-leadership-drives-success-with-doug-burnetti Burnetti, P.A.: www.burnetti.com Doug Burnetti bio: www.burnetti.com/attorneys/doug-burnetti Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman: www.amazon.com/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Management-Mortals/dp/0374159122 Contact us to learn more about the Trial Lawyer's Great Practice, Great Life Program: atticusadvantage.com/contact-us Atticus Law Firm Coaching: atticusadvantage.com/coaching If there's a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

MOON TIGER by Penelope Lively, chosen by Sara Collins NUMBER GO UP: INSIDE CRYPTO'S WILD RISE AND STAGGERING FALL by Zeke Faux, chosen by Oliver Burkeman LORD JIM AT HOME by Dinah Brooke, chosen by Harriett Gilbert"I'm writing a history of the world" - so begins the choice of novelist and broadcaster Sara Collins: Penelope Lively's Booker Prize-winning novel Moon Tiger. Claudia Hampton, a famous writer and historian, lies dying in a hospital bed, her mind flitting across the years of her remarkable life and the people she's known. Sara Collins loves the book's romance, its jagged structure, and its unlikeable heroine. Do the others agree? Sara is the author of The Confessions of Frannie Langton, which won the Costa First Novel Award and was adapted for television in 2023. She was one of the hosts of the How to Write a Book Podcast and is a former judge of the Booker Prize.As a newspaper columnist, for many years Oliver Burkeman wrote This Column Will Change Your Life in The Guardian. He is the bestselling author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and, more recently, Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts. His choice is a non-fiction book by the investigative journalist Zeke Faux about the characters who have made and lost billions in the wild and volatile world of cryptocurrency. And Harriett's choice is Lord Jim at Home, a novel by Dinah Brooke. Giles Trenchard is born into a life of privilege, but also into a world of hidden cruelty and emotional deprivation. Everyone agrees it's brilliantly written, but how do Harriett's guests feel about its dark content?Producer: Mair Bosworth

There's only so much you can do in a week – or, according to Oliver Burkeman, in the roughly 4,000 weeks the average human lives. Oliver is a journalist and author of the books Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, Meditations for Mortals, and the newsletter “The Imperfectionist.” Chris and Oliver discuss the paradox of why change can only occur once we accept that we might not be able to change. Oliver also shares how life's mishaps can become our most treasured memories and why sharing your imperfections is an act of generosity.For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscripts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oliver Burkeman, bestselling author of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals, on the power of embracing imperfection in both life and creativity, how to overcome distractions that hinder our creative flow, and the tools that can help us thrive in an imperfect world. *ABOUT OLIVER BURKEMAN Oliver Burkeman worked for many years at The Guardian, where he wrote a popular weekly column on psychology, “This Column Will Change Your Life.” His books include the New York Times bestseller Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking. His latest book is Meditations for Mortals.*RESOURCES & LINKS

In an effort to make time for ourselves, many of us fall back on using To Do lists and time blocking. But often these strategies can end up with the same result: getting lost in chasing productivity. So how do we make time for the things that truly count? Oliver Burkeman is a New York Times bestselling author of books such as ‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals’ and ‘Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts’. Oliver is also a regular columnist for The Guardian. If there is anyone who truly understands the philosophy and psychology of time management and happiness, it’s Oliver. Oliver shares:

I like to begin each year with an episode about something I'm working through more personally. And at the end of last year, the thing I needed to work through was a pretty bad case of burnout.So I picked up Oliver Burkeman's latest book, “Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts.” Burkeman's big idea, which he also explores in his best seller “Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals,” is that the desire to be more productive, to squeeze out the most from each day, to try to feel on top of our lives, is ultimately insatiable. He argues that addressing burnout requires a shift in outlook — accepting that our time and energy are finite, and that there will always be something more to do. In other words: What if you began with a deeper appreciation of your own limits? How, then, would you live?Burkeman's book is structured as 28 short essays on this question. In this conversation, I ask him to walk me through some of them. We discuss what burnout is; what it means to accept your limitations and let go of control; the messages children absorb about productivity and work; navigating the overwhelm of information and news; and more.This episode contains strong language.Mentioned:“How Millennials Became The Burnout Generation” by Anne Helen PetersenRest by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang“Stop. Breathe. We Can't Keep Working Like This.” with Cal Newport on “The Ezra Klein Show”“The Man Who Knew Too Little” by Sam DolnickBook Recommendations:The Uncontrollability of the World by Hartmut RosaFully Alive by Elizabeth OldfieldDeath by Joan TollifsonThoughts? Guest suggestions? Email us at ezrakleinshow@nytimes.com.You can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Ezra Klein Show” at nytimes.com/ezra-klein-podcast. Book recommendations from all our guests are listed at https://www.nytimes.com/article/ezra-klein-show-book-recs.This episode of “The Ezra Klein Show” was produced by Kristin Lin. Fact-checking by Michelle Harris, with Mary Marge Locker. Mixing by Isaac Jones, with Efim Shapiro and Aman Sahota. Our supervising editor is Claire Gordon. The show's production team also includes Rollin Hu, Elias Isquith and Jack McCordick. Original music by Pat McCusker. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The executive producer of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Does life ever feel like an endless to-do list? Like if you could just wake up tomorrow with a little more discipline, you’d finally master your schedule, achieve balance, and feel… enough? On today's episode, Oliver Burkeman (bestselling author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals) and Kate unravel some of the beautiful lies we cling to about time and control, the fantasy of hyper-efficiency, and what it might look like to embrace the limits that make us who we are. In this conversation, Kate and Oliver discuss: Some of the most common self-help myths that stand in our way Why the relentless pursuit of self-improvement often leaves us feeling empty, anxious, and overwhelmed. How embracing our limits can lead to more contentment This is a conversation about limits—not as something to overcome, but as a doorway to something richer, deeper, and (dare I say) more human. Sign up for our “Try January” Newsletter today, weekly prompts for a gentler New Year: katebowler.com/newsletter If you liked this episode, you’ll also love: Katie Couric on The Courage to Try (and Wisdom to Know When to Let Go) Susan David on Toxic Positivity Samantha Irby on Doing My Best (Life Now) Elizabeth Gilbert on Why Your Creativity Matters Watch clips from this conversation, read the full transcript, and access discussion questions by clicking here or visiting katebowler.com/podcasts. Follow Kate on Instagram, Facebook, or X (formerly known as Twitter)—@katecbowler. Links to social pages and more available at linktr.ee/katecbowler.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new year holds promise for a new you. But writer Oliver Burkeman says you shouldn't strive for perfection. Instead, in his latest book, “Meditations for Mortals,” Burkeman encourages readers to embrace imperfection, let some goals slide, and do less. His approach has been called “liberating and humane.” We talk to Burkeman about how to thrive and despite our mortal failings. Guests: Oliver Burkeman, author, "Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts".; Burkeman is the author of the best selling book "Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals"

Life can feel so overwhelming sometimes, especially with the nonstop pace of the modern world. But what if you learned to embrace the messiness that comes with life and concentrated more on what really matters to you rather than attempting to control everything?Building on the themes from his previous bestseller, Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, Michael is joined by returning guest Oliver Burkeman to break down his new book, Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts. Oliver and Michael dig into key ideas, such as the limits of control, the traps of overachievement and information overload, and how to face life challenges with a proactive, value-driven mindset. You'll love Oliver's powerful metaphors, like navigating a kayak instead of steering a superyacht, which really brings home the beauty of going with life's flow while staying grounded and intentional. This is an incredible resource that offers daily insights designed to inspire action, so join us for this empowering conversation and start your journey of embracing imperfection and living a more meaningful life. Listen and Learn:  Oliver's philosophy behind 'Meditations for Mortals' The Evolution from 4,000 Weeks to Meditations for Mortals Embracing the concept of imperfectionism by being finite, taking action, letting go and showing up  Embracing life's chaos with the kayak vs. superyacht metaphor The insecure overachiever and learning to break free from productivity guilt Dealing with the overflow of information and discerning what truly deserves your attention The paradox of life's endless problems and the freedom found in embracing them How to apply imperfectionism in your daily life  Balancing empathy with boundaries and why other people's problems aren't yours to solve Resources: Oliver's books:  Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals Oliver's Website: https://www.oliverburkeman.com/ Connect with Oliver on X: @oliverburkeman About Oliver BurkemanOliver Burkeman is the author of the Sunday Times bestselling Four Thousand Weeks and The Antidote, and for many years wrote a popular weekly column on psychology for the Guardian, 'This Column Will Change Your Life'. His work has also appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Psychologies, and New Philosopher.Related Episodes242. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management with Oliver Burkeman 257. The Gift of Being Ordinary with Ron Siegel 321. Imposter No More with Jill Stoddard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Life can feel so overwhelming sometimes, especially with the nonstop pace of the modern world. But what if you learned to embrace the messiness that comes with life and concentrated more on what really matters to you rather than attempting to control everything? Building on the themes from his previous bestseller, Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, Michael is joined by returning guest Oliver Burkeman to break down his new book, Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts.  Oliver and Michael dig into key ideas, such as the limits of control, the traps of overachievement and information overload, and how to face life challenges with a proactive, value-driven mindset. You'll love Oliver's powerful metaphors, like navigating a kayak instead of steering a superyacht, which really brings home the beauty of going with life's flow while staying grounded and intentional. This is an incredible resource that offers daily insights designed to inspire action, so join us for this empowering conversation and start your journey of embracing imperfection and living a more meaningful life.  Listen and Learn:  Oliver's philosophy behind 'Meditations for Mortals' The Evolution from 4,000 Weeks to Meditations for Mortals Embracing the concept of imperfectionism by being finite, taking action, letting go and showing up  Embracing life's chaos with the kayak vs. superyacht metaphor The insecure overachiever and learning to break free from productivity guilt Dealing with the overflow of information and discerning what truly deserves your attention The paradox of life's endless problems and the freedom found in embracing them How to apply imperfectionism in your daily life  Balancing empathy with boundaries and why other people's problems aren't yours to solve Resources:  Oliver's books:  Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals Oliver's Website: https://www.oliverburkeman.com/ Connect with Oliver on X: @oliverburkeman About Oliver Burkeman Oliver Burkeman is the author of the Sunday Times bestselling Four Thousand Weeks and The Antidote, and for many years wrote a popular weekly column on psychology for the Guardian, 'This Column Will Change Your Life'. His work has also appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Psychologies, and New Philosopher. Related Episodes 242. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management with Oliver Burkeman 257. The Gift of Being Ordinary with Ron Siegel 321. Imposter No More with Jill Stoddard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode SummaryI review a unique and refreshing productivity book by Oliver Burkeman, "Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals.".Show Notes Pagejeffsanders.com/560.Go Premium!Exclusive bonus episodes, 100% ad-free, full back catalog, and more!Free 7-Day Trial of 5 AM Miracle Premium.Perks from Our SponsorsBiOptimizers → Check out BiOptimizers and use my code 5AM for a great deal: bioptimizers.com.Learn More About The 5 AM MiracleThe 5 AM Miracle Podcast.Free Productivity Resources + Email Updates!Join The 5 AM Club!.The 5 AM Miracle BookAudiobook, Paperback, and Kindle.Connect on Social MediaFacebook Group • Instagram • LinkedIn • Twitter.About Jeff SandersRead Jeff's Bio.Questions?Contact Jeff.© 5 AM Miracle Media, LLC.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.