How Side Hustles & Obsessive Passions Can Lead to Burnout & Chronic Stress [43]

In this episode, we're working on our element of Inspiration by looking at our passions more closely... Harmonious passions are just like inspiration, they fuel us in nourishing and creative ways. Obsessive passions are quite the opposite. They're associated with negative emotions and rigidity. It's important to understand the difference between these, how they might show up in your life and how you can recalibrate or make a change if your passion has taken hold of you in a way that depletes your mental and physical health. Key Takeaways: Harmonious passions are good for mental and physical health. The key is that we feel nourished by them and we feel in control.  Obsessive passions are depleting for us. They also feel like responsibilities that control us.  We can recalibrate our passions in healthier ways. Strategies to recalibrate your passions and stoke inspiration:  Try backing off of an activity that feels like it has a hold on you and feels depleting. Creating some space may reignite that harmonious spark for you. Explore a new passion. Try something new that feels exciting and fun to you.  About: The Joy Lab Podcast is an Ambie-nominated podcast that blends science and soul to help you cope better with stress, anxiety, and depression. It's hosted by integrative psychiatrist Dr. Henry Emmons and holistic mental health researcher Dr. Aimee Prasek. The podcast is best paired with the Joy Lab App. Bonus: spread some joy and keep this podcast ad-free by donating (Joy Lab is powered by the nonprofit Pathways North and your donations are tax-deductible). Listen & follow the Joy Lab Podcast on your favorite listening app: Spotify | Apple | YouTube Links Mentioned: Joy Lab (step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life) About Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi Les Passions de l'Aˆ me: On Obsessive and Harmonious Passion (Vallerand et al.)   Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program. Please see our terms for more information. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at [email protected]. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org