The Stories We Tell Ourselves (And Why They Matter)

A line from a recent podcast conversation has stayed with me all week:“All words are magic spells. Be very conscious of how you use them to describe yourself.”I recently sat down with artist Adam Henry to talk about burnout, creativity, meditation, and self-talk.And what struck me most was this:A lot of us are exhausted not just because of what we’re doing — but because of the way we speak to ourselves while we do it.I should be doing more.I’m behind.I haven’t done enough.That kind of thinking quietly shapes how we experience life.This issue is presented by:I’ve been using BioOptimizers products as part of my evening routine lately — especially during busy weeks when recovery feels off. BioOptimizers is offering JamieLivesWell readers 15% off sitewide below.Burnout Isn’t Always About WorkAdam described burnout not as overwork, but as becoming exhausted by the story he was telling himself.That felt very real to me.At one point he said:“The best performers aren’t always ‘on.’ They’re just better at turning it on and off.”Toward the end of the conversation, I asked him what he would tell his younger self.His answer:“Believe in yourself and quiet all the chatter.”Honestly, I think a lot of us need that reminder right now.Further Reading: Get full access to Jamie MacDonald at www.jamieliveswell.com/subscribe