Immersion

Happiness is a universal human aim, but what we believe makes us happy, and how we define a life well-lived, varies. In Part 10 of our Positive Psychology deep dive, we explore how cultural norms, language, and social safety nets dictate our personal views on flourishing.In this episode, we explore:How cultural norms and language shape the way we express happiness.Why a national safety net changes how we behave day-to-day.The 6-D Model of culture - from uncertainty avoidance to individualism vs. collectivism Why some cultures prize "excitement" while others seek "peace."Dialecticism: The unique ability to experience conflicting emotions simultaneously.A Global Perspective: My friend Zad shares his story of a family spread across the globe and what flourishing means to them.Cultural Evolution: How societies are changing and the nuanced exceptions to the models we study.Timestamps: 00:00 How do different cultures express / show happiness: Interview part 107:00 Affect Valuation: Why we want to feel what we feel09:10 Dialecticism: Finding room for "Both/And" emotions10:55 The 6-D Model of National Culture15:35 Does culture shifts over generations: Interview part 2: 18:36 Global roots and the meaning of flourishing: Interview part 3: 21:30 The PERMA+ Recap: Building your own wellbeing toolkitThank you to Zad for coming on! You can find more from him at his instagram: @zadbullfitness Further reading available here:- https://geerthofstede.com/culture-geert-hofstede-gert-jan-hofstede/6d-model-of-national-culture/- https://behavioralpsychstudio.com/what-the-heck-is-a-dialectic/- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16536652/ Jeanne Tsai's research on AVTLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Do you ever wish you knew what your purpose was? Does your life ever feel void of meaning? In this episode we explore the idea of meaning through the lens of positive psychology, logotherapy, and existentialist philosophy. We learn from Dr. Viktor Frankl and Jean-Paul Sartre as well as from the Oxford Handbook on Positive Psychology. Also in this episode: -- How to recenter when we get off track so that we come back to what matters to us. -- The difference between purpose and significance (or meaning and mattering) -- The 5 Whys or what I like to call The Russian Doll of Goals -- We hear a voicemail from a friend on the idea of humans being natural meaning makers and how to make the process more conscious -- A more Zen approach when we want to simply live with meaning rather than analyze it Does living with purpose make us feel more fulfilled? And if so, how do we find it in a world that makes us feel like it is so far from our reach? Let's dive in!Timestamps 00:00 Situational meaning vs meaning for our entire lives01:32 Two approaches to meaning: Sartre and Frankl05:23 Dereflection from logotherapy07:07 What are the main areas people derive meaning from?07:42 Do purpose and meaning make us happier?10:09 What is meaning? How do we define it?12:53 Do we find or create meaning?17:37 The Five Why's20:02 How to recenter on what matters to us21:41 Hedonic vs. Eudaimonic happiness26:19 A Zen approach27:47 Connection to positive psychology30:50 Voicemail from a friend: Making this more consciousResources & Further Reading: - Man's Search for Meaning - Book by Viktor Frankl- Interview with Frankl: Viktor Frankl: Self-Actualization is not the goal- Sartre and Frankl comparison article/ https://philosophynow.org/issues/162/Frankl_and_Sartre_in_Search_of_Meaning- Blog by Dr. Michael Levin https://thoughtforms.life/what-advice-do-i-give-to-my-students/ hat tip to Tim Ferriss for putting this in his 5 bullet Friday - UPenn on Meaning - https://ppc.sas.upenn.edu/learn-more/perma-theory-well-being-and-perma-workshops- Logotherapy: https://viktorfranklamerica.com/what-is-logotherapy/Photography credit: - Frankl photo: Source Deutsch: Prof. Dr. Franz Vesely Viktor-Frankl-Archiv - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Viktor_Frankl2.jpg- Sartre photo:  Dutch National Archives, The Hague, Fotocollectie Algemeen Nederlands Persbureau (ANEFO), 1945-1989 bekijk toegang 2.24.01.04 Bestanddeelnummer 917-9600https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jean_Paul_Sartre_1965.jpgLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

How do we build relationships that actually flourish? In Part 8 of our Positive Psychology series, we’re looking at the science of staying connected through Minding and Active Construction. Whether it’s with friends, family, or partners, we’re moving beyond the honeymoon phase and looking at the intentional work of relating to one another.A large part of this episode is dedicated to the concept of Minding—the ongoing process of knowing and being known by others. We explore how being intentional and curious about the people in our lives can transform the way we relate to one another.Also in this episode:Capitalization in Real Life: I’m joined by a close friend who is naturally incredible at "Active Constructive Responding." We talk about what it actually looks like to show up for someone when things are going right.The Gottman Basics: We touch on "Bids for Affection" and the Magic Ratio—simple but powerful tools for understanding the emotional bank account in any relationship.Self-Expansion & Novelty: A brief look at why doing new things together helps us grow individually and as a pair.The 3 Ingredients for Friendship: What actually makes a friendship stick? I'm sharing some simple takeaways from a positive psychology class that changed how I look at my own social circle.A Systems Perspective: We listen to a voicemail that helps us visualize how our relationships aren't just one-on-one, but part of a larger ecosystem.This series is all about finding practical ways to apply the science of well-being to our daily lives. I’m glad you’re here for the home stretch!References & Further Reading- The Oxford Handbook of Positive Psychology (2nd Ed.): Edited by Dr. Shane J. Lopez and Dr. C. R. Snyder.- The "Minding" Model: Based on research by Dr. John H. Harvey and Dr. Julia Omarzu.- Bids for Affection & Magic Ratios: Developed by Dr. John Gottman (and the clinical work of Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman)- Gender Differences in Self-Disclosure: Based on the classic meta-analysis by Dr. Kathryn Dindia and Dr. Mike Allen (1992). While earlier research suggested women disclose more in general, newer studies (like Carbone & Loewenstein, 2023) suggest that while men and women share positive news at similar rates, women may be more likely to share negative news or vulnerabilities.- Active Constructive Responding (Capitalization): Research by Dr. Shelly Gable and colleagues.- Self-Expansion Theory: Dr. Arthur Aron and Dr. Elaine Aron.- The 3 Ingredients for Friendship: Insights from a course taught by Dr. Ryan Duffy at the University of Florida.- Systems Theory Segment: Special thanks to Lea for the voicemail! You can find more of her work at https://accountabilitycoachinglondon.co.uk/.- Guest Interview: A huge thank you to Madeline for joining me to talk about being an active constructive responder!Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

We are 7 episodes into this series and I have a confession: I expected to feel "happier" by now, but the reality of positive psychology is a lot more nuanced. While I’ve definitely picked up some great habits around Grit and finding Flow in my work, I was surprised to find that the best parts of my day weren't the big achievements—they were the simple things, like a cup of tea and a good book before bed. In this episode, we’re finally tackling the "P" in PERMA+ (Positive Feeling States).In this conversation, we’re breaking down:Flourishing vs. Happy: Why positive psychology is actually about well-being as a whole, rather than just chasing a mood.The "Magic Pill": What actually gets us closest to a sustainable sense of happiness?The Success Paradox: We always hear that success leads to happiness, but does it actually work the other way around?The 10 Positive Emotions: A look at the ten most cited emotions in the field Achievement vs. Feeling: How things like Mastery and Grit connect back to our day-to-day emotional states.We also dive into Dr. Barbara Fredrickson’s "Broaden and Build" theory. It’s a foundational concept that explains how these small, positive moments actually help us build the resources we need to handle the hard stuff. We’ll also continue our ongoing debate: Hedonic happiness (pleasure) vs. Eudaemonic happiness (meaning). If you’ve ever felt like you’re "doing the work" but still just want to enjoy the small stuff, this episode is for you.Timestamps: 00:00 Positive psychology is not about being happy all of the time: it is about flourishing 03:50 Broaden-and-Build Theory06:50 Perma+ as it relates to setting the stage for positive emotions 08:14 The most referenced positive emotions in positive psychology 10:41 Does success lead to happiness? Or does happiness lead to success?12:04 The Perma+ model and how the aspects are interconnected13:17 The Perma+ model and which to optimize for (9 is too much to keep in mind!) 15:35 Perma score vs happiness levels & an example17:58 On not trying to force happiness – the savoring paradox 21:07 A more tangible tip – and the 2 routes to happiness 24:10 Hedonic and eudaimonic happiness debate continued: On simple pleasures  28:14 Closing reflections Resources and researchers mentioned in this episode Cited throughout this series - Oxford Handbook of Positive Psychology 2nd Edition - by  C. R. Snyder  Shane J. Lopez  (Editor)Dr. Iris Mauss -  on seeking happiness leading to less happiness Dr. Ryan Duffy - Positive psychology professor at UF - referenced in the part on gratitude (What I said after that is my own thoughts though and I cannot speak for his views on that) Dr. Barbara Fredrickson for Broaden and Build theory - https://royalsocietypublishing.org/rstb/article-abstract/359/1449/1367/20449/The-broaden-and-build-theory-of-positive-emotions?redirectedFrom=fulltext Ask Polly - on savoring paradox Character strengths mentioned in the episode: https://www.viacharacter.orgLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Is the 10,000-hour rule a myth? We’ve all heard that it takes 10,000 hours to master a craft, but the truth is that not all hours are created equal. In this episode, we dive into the science of peak performance and the current "Gold Standard" of learning: Deliberate Practice.Based on the research of Dr. K. Anders Ericsson, we break down why simply "putting in more time" isn't enough and how you can greatly enhance your learning curve to improve in your field.In this episode, we discuss:▶️ Purposeful vs. Deliberate Practice: Why your current routine might be plateauing and how to fix it.▶️ The PERMA+ Model: How mastery and achievement fuel long-term happiness and positive psychology.▶️ Case Studies in Excellence: From the undercover bravery of journalist Nellie Bly to the joy Indiana found in playing the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Nutcracker▶️ Actionable Steps: How to apply the principles of deliberate practice to your daily life immediately.Timestamps: 00:00 Deliberate Practice: The Basics02:50 The 10,000-Hour Rule: Separating Fact from Myth06:30 Why is Deliberate Practice So Difficult?09:19 Tips to Apply Deliberate Practice in Daily Life18:45 Mastery, Positive Psychology, and the PERMA+ Model29:42 Podcast Updates Up next: - Our series on positive psychology: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPJBR0a3Yz6u9jXWk1uknsVSq-XVGMMXI- Mastery prior episode on breaking through sticking points: https://youtu.be/sXwhvqoeWxk- On perfectionism: YouTube version: https://youtu.be/vNB2x1ULLec or the podcast version here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318937/episodes/16439411- On grit and optimism: https://youtu.be/puZoiXL_NIQ or podcast version here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318937/episodes/18565769Resources mentioned 📖 - Deliberate practice: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18778378/- Case study with the dancer Indiana: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa-I7iUErK0- Article on Perma and savoring achievements: https://www.thepositivepsychologypeople.com/perma-a-is-for-accomplishmentachievement/ - The good life podcast interview with K. Anders Ericsson, PhD - https://www.goodlifeproject.com/podcast/anders-ericsson/Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

What if you could disappear into your tasks and emerge happier, more productive, and less stressed? That "magical" feeling - one you have likely experienced from time to time - is called Flow. And it’s more than just a catchy term thrown around these days; it’s a scientifically backed state of peak performance.In this video, we dive into the groundbreaking research of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Jeanne Nakamura to uncover why "losing yourself" in a task is one of the 9 key tools for creating a meaningful life. (This is part 5 of our series on positive psychology which goes into all 9 of these tools - and you can find more about these tools in the episodes directly before and after this one!) In this video, you’ll learn:The 3 criteria and 6 characteristics that define a true Flow State.Why engagement increases life satisfactionPractical strategies to trigger immersion in your daily routine.Timestamp Chapters:00:00 Intro & Example of Flow04:20 The 3 Criteria & 6 Characteristics of Flow10:56 The Historical Lens13:27 What qualifies as Flow? (Common Questions) 16:52 The Happiness Connection: Why Flow feels so good 24:09 Actionable Steps: How to create more Flow todayResources mentioned: 📖 - Textbook: https://academic.oup.com/edited-volume/28153- Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by by Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

How do exercise, sleep, and nutrition actually impact our mood and mental health?You have likely felt the difference between weeks when you are caring for your body versus weeks when those habits fall away. Sometimes, we need to consciously recognize how much better we feel - physically and emotionally - before those healthy habits finally stick.In Part 4 of our Positive Psychology series, we are covering the "Plus" in the PERMA+ model. We’re diving into the science of what happens inside the body and how physical health acts as a pillar for mental well-being.In this episode, we cover:Can there be such a thing as "constructive" stress?Why does gut health matter so much for mood?Practical tips for managing your circadian rhythm.Chapters:00:00 Intro: physical health affects mental health 01:12 Sleep and mental health 13:03 Hydration, energy levels, and mood 14:30 Nutritional psychiatry: How food affects mood 24:48 Alcohol and "hangxiety" 27:36 Exercise and stress levels 31:35 Closing thoughts on personal differences🔗 Resources Mentioned:• Caffeine video: https://youtu.be/3FKknOHI_-Q• Arthur C. Brooks doing happiness FAQ on WIRED https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTmixSgeOI0• Nutritional Psychiatry: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626• Research article on mood and sleep: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4318605/• Hydration research: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3984246/• https://lonestarneurology.net/others/how-sugar-spikes-and-crashes-influence-brain-chemistry/• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495My book Fit Intuition: https://www.amazon.com/Fit-Intuition-Listen-Never-Again/dp/1735920509#averageCustomerReviewsAnchorLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Ever feel like you have the talent, but you just can't seem to finish what you start?In this episode, we’re looking at why we "hit the wall" and quit when things get difficult. It’s a dive into the science of Grit, Resilience, and Hope - tools that many believe we are born with, but research proves we can actually build.Using the foundational work of Martin Seligman, Carol Dweck, and Angela Duckworth, we explore the shift from "Learned Helplessness" to "Learned Optimism." This is Part 3 of our series on Happiness and Positive Psychology, focusing on the psychological mechanics of achieving your goals and staying the course.What we cover in this deep dive:How to identify your "Explanatory Style" (The story you tell yourself about failure).The difference between a Growth Mindset and a Fixed Mindset.Why "Hope" isn't just a feeling, but a cognitive skill you can trainSome takeaways from the book Grit Resources: 📖 Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance: https://angeladuckworth.com/grit-book/Growth mindset article: https://stanfordmag.org/contents/why-mindset-mattersRainbows in the mind (Hope theory) https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2003-01827-001Good to Great article excerpt: https://www.jimcollins.com/concepts/Stockdale-Concept.html and Optimism and long term outcomes for POW after returning home: https://psycnet.apa.org/buy/2014-37465-001Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Why do we recover from heartbreaks, job losses, and injuries faster than we could ever imagine?For example, if you were fired today or left at the altar, how long would you be miserable? You probably guess "months or years." But the science suggests this is not necessarily the case. We often underestimate our ability to heal because we don't realize we have a Psychological Immune System. Just like your body fights infection with a physical immune system, your brain has a built-in mechanism to metabolize grief, reject despair, and return you to baseline happiness much faster than you predict.But unlike your physical immune system, you have to know how to trigger it for it to work most effectively.In this episode, we are looking under the hood of the Psychological Immune System. We explore not just what it is, but how to actively strengthen it so you can fear failure and setbacks less.We also cover: The Components: The mix of conscious actions (soothing) and unconscious edits (memory) that heal us.The "Rose-Tinted" Effect: How our memory edits the past to protect our future.Irreversibility: Why burning your boats might actually make you happier than keeping your options open. Synthetic Happiness vs. Natural Happiness: Is one really better than the other?  Cognitive reframes: including CBT and The Work of Byron Katie And the many psychological factors as play such as locus of control and impact bias  Prior episodes mentioned: On Reversible and Irreversible Decisions and Commitment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318937/episodes/18391487Part 1 in Happiness Series: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318937/episodes/18486848Resources 📖 -        Stumbling on Happiness by Dan Gilbert (the book referenced) and here is his TED talk https://www.ted.com/talks/dan_gilbert_the_surprising_science_of_happiness-The Work by Byron Katie https://thework.com/2017/10/four-liberating-questions/-Article mentioned: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/dating-and-mating/202004/don-t-underestimate-your-psychological-immune-system-https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2005-09663-004-https://thebtrc.com/understanding-the-psychological-immune-system-and-its-role-in-trauma-recovery/-On moving from negative to neutral and how we can implement the immune system to take more risks: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/aug/14/the-psychological-immune-system-four-ways-to-bolster-yours-and-have-a-happier-calmer-life- On Defense Mechanisms: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/defense-mechanismsLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

We spend our whole lives chasing happiness, but we rarely stop to ask: Are we chasing the right things? Or more importantly - do we even have control over how happy we are?Research suggests that while a portion of our happiness is genetic, a significant amount is firmly within our control - if we know which levers to pull. In this episode, we dive into the science of building a happier life. We look at why our brains are notoriously bad at predicting the future (affective forecasting) and how to stop stumbling into happiness and start designing it.In this episode, we cover:The 50% Rule: Is happiness genetic, or is it a choice?The Prediction Trap: Why we are bad at guessing what will make us happy (Affective Forecasting).Hedonic vs. Eudaimonic: The difference between "feeling good" and "deeper meaning"The PERMA+ Model: The scientific "ingredients" list for a good life.Surrogation: A strategy for making better major life decisions.The Toolkit: How to use Positive Psychology to move the needle on your satisfaction (as the first part of an upcoming series) Reference: The "Happiness Pie Chart" discussed in this episode is based on the work of Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ken Sheldon, and David SchkadeOther resources mentioned: 📕 Stumbling on Happiness by Daniel Gilbert Character strengths: https://www.viacharacter.org/Affective forecasting by Timothy Wilson and Daniel GilbertDoes more money make us happier? NOTE upon looking at this closer, I saw they went into some additional nuances not covered in the video - worth a read if you are curious https://penntoday.upenn.edu/news/does-more-money-correlate-greater-happiness-Penn-Princeton-researchOn the long-running happiness study: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2017/04/over-nearly-80-years-harvard-study-has-been-showing-how-to-live-a-healthy-and-happy-life/Some more on Perma: https://ppc.sas.upenn.edu/learn-more/perma-theory-well-being-and-perma-workshopsSome more basics on positive psychology: as referenced from Peterson 2008 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-good-life/200805/what-is-positive-psychology-and-what-is-it-not and  https://positivepsychology.com/what-is-positive-psychology-definition/My positive psychology professor from university: https://www.drryanduffy.com/ Timestamps: 00:00 Intro: Stumbling on happiness 02:28 How is happiness actually defined? 04:17 How controllable is happiness? 07:24 Affective Forecasting: Your mind lies to you 09:16 PERMA+: The ingredients of the good life 15:35 "Surrogation": A tool for better decision making 18:21 The field of Positive Psychology & FootnotesLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In Part 2 of our deep dive into the decision to be a parent in the modern world, we move from the statistics to the emotional reality. We explore the fear of regret, the definition of legacy, and how to navigate intense societal pressure.Whether you are currently weighing this choice or have already made it, I hope this episode offers you clarity and compassion.In this episode, we cover:The Fear of Regret: How to make the right decision for you by looking through the lens of existential philosophy.Societal Pressure: How expectations vary wildly depending on where you live and your cultural background.Redefining Legacy: Looking to historical mentors and role models without children, such as Barbara McClintock, Jane Austen, and Edna Ferber.Action Steps: Practical resources and compassion for navigating the big emotions surrounding this topic.This is a follow up to part 1 which is here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318937/episodes/18450026Timestamps: 00:00 Intro to Part 2 00:25 The Fear of Regret regarding children (Choosing Your Path) 07:02 Legacy: What Do We Leave Behind? 08:21 Interview: Navigating Social Pressure 27:17 Action Steps, Resources, & Final Reflections📚 Resources Mentioned:The Baby Decision by Merle BombardieriMotherhood: Is It For Me? by Denise L. Carlini and Ann DavidmanHunt, Gather, Parent by Michaeleen DoucleffFor more from our guest Madeleine: https://madeleinecrown.wordpress.comDr. Ana on regretful parents: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuCNNBaacr4School of life with reference to existentialist philosopher Søren Kierkegaarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8RPUJhULLEhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339?i=1000738312848Vox article on how millennials learned to dread motherhood:  https://www.vox.com/features/23979357/millennials-motherhood-dread-parenting-birthrate-women-policyThe kids or childfree podcast: https://www.kidsorchildfree.com/podcastLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In this video, we explore why millennials are not having kids, looking at the declining birth rate through the lens of history, economics, and sociology.We go beyond the usual headlines about money to discuss intensive parenting, modern developments, demographic transitions, environmental concerns, and the real cost of raising a family in the modern world.Throughout this journey, we ask the central question: Are millennials overcomplicating this decision, or is the world actually more complicated now?In this deep dive, we cover:* The "Opt-In" Generation: How women's rights and optionality flipped the script from "when" to "if."* The Burnout Factor: How "Intensive Parenting" and modern complexity have replaced physical labor with mental exhaustion.* The Hard Questions: Such as navigating the biological clock and the "selfish" stigmaLink to part 2 here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318937/episodes/18450034The Economic Reality: Why the "village" disappeared and the true cost of raising a child in 2025.00:00 Intro 00:52 Are We Overcomplicating It? 02:11 Women's Rights & The Shift 03:14 The First Generation to "Opt In" 03:42 Climate Change & Uncertainty 04:23 Maternal Healthcare 04:52 Opportunity Cost & Optionality 05:51 Intensive Parenting & Time Demands 07:23 Where is the Village? (Isolation) 07:46 Modern Complexity & Mental Overwhelm 09:44 Longevity & Irreversibility 11:07 Weighing the Pros & Cons of Parenthood (My Experience) 13:07 Finding Community & Steps After the Choice 15:30 Is it Selfish to Not Have Kids? 18:27 The Question of Family Size 19:15 Birthrates: A Historical View 21:13 The Impact on Men 22:07 The Economics of Parenthood 26:37 The Biological Clock & Feeling "ReadyResources or further reading: Time parenting: https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2018/11/29/more-than-one-in-ten-u-s-parents-are-also-caring-for-an-adult/Birth rates in the 1900s: https://ourworldindata.org/baby-boom-seven-chartsDemographic transition: https://ourworldindata.org/demographic-transitionOn fertility after 35: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240313-the-fertility-myth-most-advice-says-womens-fertility-declines-after-35-the-truth-is-more-complicatedBirthrates rising for ages 40-44: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db535.htmMany women still do not have control over this choice: https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/11/1166257On the cost of childcare: https://www.epi.org/press/updated-resource-calculates-the-cost-of-child-care-in-every-state-child-care-is-more-expensive-than-public-college-tuition-in-38-states-and-washington-d-c/Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Do you feel stuck between the desire for flexibility while also craving for structure? In a world of infinite options, "keeping your doors open" feels like the smart move. But often, it leads to a specific kind of misery: the anxiety of feeling untethered and lost in a sea of possibilities. So how do we commit to what matters to us? We cover:The "Haircut vs. Tattoo" Rule: Why we treat reversible decisions like permanent ones (feat. James Clear).The 37% Rule: The mathematical solution to "When should I stop looking?"The "Intentional Renter": Why commitment doesn't always mean buying a house or settling down.The Ulysses Pact: How to use constraints to find focus.The Psychology of "The Fig Tree": What Sylvia Plath teaches us about the fear of missing out. Timestamps: 00:00 The push and pull between optionality and structure 01:30 Why this matters 02:21 Optimal arousal theory 03:55 Reversible vs irreversible decisions 05:51 Personality traits & personal characteristics 08:28 Maximizers and satisficers 10:59 Psychological immune system 12:13 This is not about commitment phobia 14:05 Being tied to the mast and forced to commit 16:32 Committing for chunks of time or contracts with yourself 18:35 Fear setting by Tim Ferriss19:47 On the wonder of optionality 22:24 Paying the opportunity cost 23:33 Mindset and grit 26:16 When to commit, optimal stopping point, and the magic of 37%28:25 Fear based or strategic optionality?30:10 What next? Mentioned in this episode and further reading / watching:  On optimal arousal theory: https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/anatomy-and-physiology/optimal-arousal-theoryJames Clear's quote: https://jamesclear.com/quotes/i-think-about-decisions-in-three-ways-hats-haircuts-and-tattoosMaximizers and satisficers: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12416921/ Psychological immune system: https://www.apa.org/monitor/oct01/strengthRamit on renting The Three Year Rule by Matt D'Avella: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HF2AjcXurAFear setting by Tim Ferriss: https://tim.blog/2017/05/15/fear-setting/Optimal stopping point 37% rule: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFVXsjVdvmYMastery video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXwhvqoeWxk If you are stuck in planning and day dreaming: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gy_bO-xC6dcOn choosing a vocation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpzt2ECS2b0Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Branding is difficult because you are trying to turn a complex, 3D human or experience into a flat, 2D logo. In this episode we cover the psychology of branding and how to simplify your message without losing your authenticity.In this episode, we cover:00:00 The Thesis: "3D Humans" vs. "2D Brands"01:20 Personal story and rebranding the podcast 02:00 How Nike does this well 03:27 Keeping authenticity despite simplification 05:49 Person vs. Persona: Drawing the line07:21 Sticky" Branding: Amplifying your core essence08:58 Working with a branding expert for our re-brand  10:44 Defining branding - is it just a logo or much more? - Case study with Apple 12:42 On coming up with names for brands 13:53 The Mystery Gap: What to show vs. what to hide15:23 Existence Precedes Essence: How Jean-Paul Sartre’s philosophy explains modern personal branding.17:25 How to identify what makes you unique in a saturated market 21:31 How to apply this as a consumer 22:46 Reviewing all touch points for your brand while considering your ideal customer or consumer 25:30 On our continued rebrand and if you are thinking about rebranding 26:40 Conclusion: Marrying the 2D & 3D SelfResources mentioned in this episode:Cal Newport's article in "The New Yorker" https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/tiktok-and-the-fall-of-the-social-media-giantsHis podcast Deep Questions here goes into this idea further: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-questions-with-cal-newport/id1515786216?i=1000732634023The branding expert we worked with Patrick Pearce: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mtlpatrickpearce/Marty Neumeier defing branding on The Futurhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sO4te2QNsHYColin Gray's episode on the brand becoming the name and not the other way around: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ja3HfB2f7fY Branding and philosophy / existentialism: https://www.brainzooming.com/blog/brand-marketing-and-existentialism-by-randall-rozinLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Welcome to the trailer for Immersion! The show is getting a new name and a renewed focus, right here on this feed. I’m still your host, Pam Carey, and while the voice is the same, we are bringing more depth and structure to the conversations. I can’t wait to explore alongside you and immerse ourselves in the topics that fascinate us.Important note: The artwork will be updated in a few weeks! Keep an eye out for the name Immersion in your library, even if the icon looks different.First episode arrives Dec. 14th.Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome & meet your host 01:26 About the show & about the topics we will cover02:30 Breakdown of the new segments 03:46 Credits & where to find the showLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Felt chatty - may delete later ;) Just wanted to keep you posted on where the pod is headed and when we’ll be back in full force posting more regularly.Excited for what is ahead! Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Have you ever felt stuck in one role with friends? Often we rely on the same social skills in group dynamics. They start as assets based on our strengths and preferences, but over time they can become a crutch - limiting growth in other areas. For example, always being the supportive friend or the jokester. I argue we can become a social Swiss army knife by developing other skills - even if it’s uncomfortable at first - which makes relationships healthier and conversations more enjoyable.We’ll touch on role theory (with roots in social psychology and systems thinking) and pair it with real-life examples and a bit of research. This isn’t about becoming someone you’re not - it’s about expanding your social range and tapping dormant parts of yourself so you can show up more authentically.(00:00) intro(00:16) why I thought of this concept (01:38) some of the role types (03:09) origination in childhood (04:50) reasons we may want to change this part 1(05:25) role theory definition(06:45) this varies in different social groups (08:04) research on this and more types of roles (11:32) reasons we may want to change this part 2(14:46) expanding the definition of who you are(17:29) how this will help you talk to anyone (18:40) experimentation and awareness  Mentioned in the episode: Is personality an illusion episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1I5mWjHDjPftoRLnKQOec8?si=b9d1e48622e245d8 Or on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pam-carey-show/id1732129494?i=1000648475710  APA definition mentioned: https://dictionary.apa.org/role-theoryResearch on roles in groups: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1949-00677-001More of the roles discussed from that research: https://www.comm.pitt.edu/roles-groupsBook Supercommunicators by Charles Duhigg https://charlesduhigg.com/supercommunicators/Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Let’s organize everything in your mind! From the tasks you need to complete, to calendars and planners, to your notes, ideas, and the random sticky notes floating around your house - it’s time to streamline your system so you can focus on what matters most.This episode draws inspiration from David Allen’s classic productivity book Getting Things Done, but updated with my own modern approach to task management and organization.Here’s what we’ll cover:How working memory capacity in psychology affects your productivityThe power of a full capture system, regular sorting time, and using the right information at the right moment (all key to building trust in your workflow)How to decide what’s a to-do list item, what belongs on your calendar, what's a reminder, and what should be stored as a project note or creative ideaThe philosophy behind different productivity systems - the timeless principles that still work, even if the tools and apps changeAnd more!Link to the YouTube version: https://youtu.be/ep0vd2MMCB0David Allen’s book “Getting Things Done” https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/getting-things-done-david-allen/1101546710Article on working memory capacity https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2864034/Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Let’s explore how travel, memory, and presence can help us reclaim a slower sense of time:Have you noticed that time seems to move faster with each passing year? What if we could slow it back down?In this episode, we explore the psychology of time perception - and how it shifts as we age, as we travel, and as we live through global disruptions like the pandemic. Drawing on my recent travels through Japan, I share moments of awe, stillness, and unexpected chaos (including a story involving a Tokyo train!) - and reflect on what a Zen monk in Kyoto taught me about presence.We’ll explore why novel experiences stretch time, how technology may compress it, and what we can do to reclaim a more expansive, mindful relationship with the passing of days.Chapters:00:00:00 Main material00:14:08 Bonus content 00:25:22 What’s next Video version of the episode (without podcast bonus content but it does have videos and photos from our trip as visuals!) https://youtu.be/Rg-hQ3jtcAoPodcast episode on technology referenced at the end: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318937/episodes/17789635Resources / citations: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-does-time-seem-to-speed-up-with-age/Video referenced on Ghost time by Wobbleverse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZi0fUocGyohttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/out-of-the-darkness/202409/why-does-time-seem-to-speed-up-as-we-get-olderNot mentioned but processing speed and routes information takes as we get older may be another factor: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7571507/Dacher Keltner is the professor referenced who studies aweFact checked and yes there are dining in the dark experiences Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In this episode we discuss a main reason people fail to achieve their lists of goals they set around New Years or their birthdays during “life resets.” It is because we often fail to evaluate the scope of our goals. We will do that here with a framework for breaking our objectives down into four categories, calculating how much energy and time is required for each, and go through practical steps you can take with your own goal lists. We will aim to make our list of goals “diversified” as we discuss here. We will also talk about the planning fallacy, indirectly reference Parkinson’s law, and explore ways to achieve more, by at times, doing less.Video version of the episode: https://youtu.be/f1f3Hszz3nwVideos referenced for after this: On the planning fallacy and how tasks take longer than we anticipate and how we can persevere in spite of that:  https://youtu.be/7vFFkWr_2r4On how "how many projects should we balance at once" and spacing out goals to be at different times: https://youtu.be/fcT-tpqUgBoA good follow up video on "If you should tell people your goals or keep them to yourself"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ox_8gX64KVwLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In this episode we will examine the psychology of goal setting through personal anecdotes and the research to see if we should share about our projects, goals, and dreams or if we are more likely to stay motivated and achieve them if we keep our objectives to ourselves. We will explore how this ties in with extrinsic vs intrinsic motivation and how identity shapes actions. We will also discuss frameworks that may allow us to get the best of both worlds, considering that there is evidence on each side of this camp - team accountability and team grind in silence. Let’s get into it!Video version of the episode: https://youtu.be/Ox_8gX64KVwSources: TED Talk by Derek Sivers: https://www.ted.com/talks/derek_sivers_keep_your_goals_to_yourselfMeta-analysis demonstrating making goals public can be helpful: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26479070/Study on accountability and goals: https://scholar.dominican.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1002&context=psychology-faculty-conference-presentationsDrive by Daniel Pink - goes into intrinsic motivation more https://www.danpink.com/books/drive/Study that goes into extrinsic and intrinsic rewards https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1974-10497-001Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Because, it's not just screen time, it's your life: So many of us feel compulsive with the internet, our phones, screens of all sorts, and constant external stimulation. This started about 10 years ago as social media became more popular and has been increasing ever since. Many, for instance, find it hard to ever go for a walk or do chores without a podcast, and this lack of solitude has affected many areas of our lives - from creative insight to the ability to be present. But the main thing we will talk about here is our time. I personally feel like I have lost years of my life to internet rabbit holes. Between mindless scrolling and bouncing from one app or tab to another, it has been hard to focus on what really matters to me and live a life aligned with my values. Here we will take steps to change that with the following:Topics covered in this episode:** Reflecting on where our time has gone in relation to the internet** Creating a vision for the life we want in the coming decades - and how our screen use may need to shift** Exploring what led to compulsive internet use in the first place** Discussing the downsides of excessive screen time and which types tend to be most problematic vs more harmless ** Introducing a philosophical shift inspired by the book Digital Minimalism by Cal NewportIf you're working on reducing screen time and reclaiming your focus, you're not alone - this video is for you.Video version of the episode: https://youtu.be/9v9OLJ1dwcc?si=5qkxs8iOgh3m8CZ9Resource if you are struggling with technology addiction: https://internetaddictsanonymous.orgLinks for resources mentioned in this videos: @BronnieWare1 found at https://www.youtube.com/c/bronnieware1 is the author of The Top Five Regrets of the Dyinghttps://bronnieware.com/regrets-of-the-dying/Video on how to track time related to tech and the internet  https://youtu.be/LV3xIAE0BLUThank you to Cal's work which I cited in this video - you can find Digital Minimalism and his other books here: https://calnewport.com/writing/Song referenced -- Welcome to the Internet by Bo Burnham from "Inside" - this song is wow, just wow, gives chills and so accurate Attention Span by Gloria Mark PhDhttps://gloriamark.com/attention-span/ Playground by Richard Powershttps://www.richardpowers.net/playground/Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Have you ever finished a LONG workday without much to show for it? One reason for this is being stuck in a "productivity limbo state" where you are in between working and relaxing. You may start to get a task done and then check a text. You then get back to work and then find yourself reading a news article soon after. A few more minutes of work then you are watching a video on social media. You end the day tired AND feeling like you didn't get much done because you didn't have any true focus or true rest. In this episode we discuss this phenomenon and a policy we can set with ourselves that may hold the solution. 🔑  The ON or OFF rule💡 Video version of the episode: https://youtu.be/0nta_RBGuu8Links mentioned in this episode: Channel on ADHD: https://www.youtube.com/@HowtoADHDCal’s work shutdown routine - I believe he wrote this in 2009 the blog says so it likely has changed some over the years in terms of systems but the principles would stay the same:  https://calnewport.com/drastically-reduce-stress-with-a-work-shutdown-ritual/More on the Pomodoro technique:  https://www.todoist.com/productivity-methods/pomodoro-techniqueLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

If you have been feeling like something is missing lately - like a spark or a sense of excitement. Or if your life feels lacking in meaning -- empty, or dull. This episode dives into these feelings. I share a story about going through this recently and the 9 reasons I found this to be the case through exploration - with potential action steps.1) Purpose -- not just having one but working it into your day to day life and routine 2) No longer putting off being full IN life until we get "there" - some place in the future - and within this setting more authentic goals vs goals rooted predominantly in ego 3)  Checking in with our habits - are they fueling us or draining us? Within that, specifically checking in on certain habits such as health. 4) Reflecting on being vs consumption. 5) Checking in with our categories of life - and creating this list together if you have never done so. 6) Adding more fun, play, wonder, and appreciation.  7) Do we have adequate amounts of community, time around people, and close relationships  8) Journaling on what else could be at play - for example is comparison the root of these feelings? 9) Taking action.  Links and resources:Video referenced about purpose and if something is missing in your life part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8fe4tpkA2s If you feel you keep putting off life and pushing the goalpost further and further: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbI_HfHjUMQMore on the Thích Nhất Hạnh "I have arrived" quote: https://www.stillwatermpc.org/dharma-topics/i_have_arrived_i_am_home/Video on listening to and caring for your body: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lwq1X1kX38s&t=2sAli Abdaal short version of the video on what would this look like if it were fun? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPo5yrry6nwAwe and wonder podcast episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2XamHh9zCpoeJRq4SQUL6UArtist way video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUYBsmnwXI8 Building Community video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcTkM4g9uaUIf you relate to living through fiction at times - episode on Book Hangover: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljPjvDskPWoLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Have you ever finished a book or show and felt an overwhelming wave of sadness—like you’ve just lost a friend or left a world you loved behind? That’s book hangover (which can also happen with TV shows)—an emotional cocktail of grief, longing, and nostalgia that can hit harder than we expect.In this episode, we explore:Why stories leave such a lasting emotional imprint and why they feel so real to our brains How living vicariously through fictional worlds can reflect a deeper longing for purpose or meaning in our own livesThe bittersweet experience of saying goodbye to characters and worlds we grew to loveWhether you’re reeling from a fantasy epic or mourning the end of a favorite series, this episode unpacks the emotional weight of book hangovers and why they resonate so deeply with many.If you’ve ever felt this way, drop a comment or shoot me a DM or message on my website with the book or show that left you with a story hangover—I’d love to hear your picks!---------Show notes / resources: article on experience of it and some on the brain: https://www.rd.com/article/book-hangover/ video referenced on "If you feel like something is missing in your life" - a video on purpose - https://youtu.be/G8fe4tpkA2s Video referenced about how we can each make a contribution even when that feels hard at times: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-uuzUHxUUcLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In this episode we are discussing how to listen to the cues your body is sending you, so that you can care for it. Your body will often tell you exactly what it needs -- and hearing this, and acting in accordance with what it needs, is a skill we can grow. If you have a hard time knowing if you are hungry or full, if you have a hard time motivating yourself to eat well or meditate, if you have a hard time resting, or other forms of self-care this podcast episode is for you. I have been a personal trainer and health coach working with clients in NYC for over 10 years and this is what I do for a living. We will go over several examples and exercises so you can start applying these principles today. Would love to hear from you in the comments - what are your thoughts on this topic? Thanks for listening!  Book I wrote on this subject: Fit Intuition: Listen to Your Body and Never Diet Again - https://www.amazon.com/Fit-Intuition-Listen-Never-Again/dp/1735920509Video version of the episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lwq1X1kX38sPodcast can be found at these links:  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NMMtC7Y6nTy5Gnf6BSLpHApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pam-carey-show/id1732129494#bodycare #selfcare #awarenessLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In this free verse poem, I explore the feeling of being "behind in life" and the frustration of missing opportunities, while talking about something that happens to all of us - missing the bus. But what happens when we stop chasing the past and start embracing what lies in front of us now? Life isn’t linear, and sometimes the most meaningful growth comes from missed chances, detours, and the lessons learned along the way. Even though we may feel too late, there’s always another opportunity ahead—sometimes one that’s even better for us. Through this poem, I encourage you (and it serves as a reminder of what I need to remember too!) to release regret and embrace another path, no matter where it takes us. Join me in exploring what it truly means to be here and now, without the weight of “what could have been.” Themes in this video: self-reflection and growth, letting go of perfectionism, embracing the present moment, overcoming regret, and finding hope after missed opportunities.Video version will be posted here - https://youtu.be/qCx1qS0iYksLeave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In this episode, we explore how to build community and address why so many of us feel isolated and disconnected today. We dive into the concept of the atomization of society—how the traditional webs of connection have been broken—and discuss the so-called loneliness epidemic. Is it caused by increasing social isolation, or are we just more open about our feelings now?Key topics we cover include:  The loss of the third place and its impact on communityHow consumerism, capitalism, and individualistic cultures contribute to disconnection, featuring insights from sociologist and philosopher Zygmunt Bauman, writer Oliver Burkeman,  and many other thinkers - both linked below and discussed in the episode The crucial link between community and mental/physical healthAnd many practical strategies to create and foster connection in your lifeJoin us for an in-depth conversation about rebuilding meaningful community  and finding belonging in today’s fragmented world.YouTube version of the episode: https://youtu.be/p1PEbVt6R04Show notes links, citations, and attributions: : I want to give credit to the YouTube channel AfterImage linked here: https://www.youtube.com/@After_Image/videos  for their work from this linked video that I shared a quote from - thank you for your breakdown of the atomization of society through this story -   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yx2C1rmjXpoArticle about collective action being needed vs individual actions: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/23/big-oil-coined-carbon-footprints-to-blame-us-for-their-greed-keep-them-on-the-hookBraver angels - brings people together across the political divide: https://braverangels.org/Oliver Burkeman’s book Four Thousand Weeks:  https://www.oliverburkeman.com/fourthousandweeksAre we more lonely these days or simply discussing it more? https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/lonely-not-alone/202305/are-we-really-lonelier-than-everThread on liquid modernity - a bit different than what I discussed here but what I discussed was inspired by this: https://www.reddit.com/r/sociology/comments/kfz38b/liquid_modernity_discussion_in_first_comment/Short on social isolation cycle and fear: https://youtube.com/shorts/5VocqKKTyyY?si=nFAYv09Ud-aSHFbtThis is not the original video I watched on people living together in community but it is just as good so here it is! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYog8xN0cJQ and they linked this resource on finding an intentional community https://www.ic.org/Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Here we will discuss how to actually finish work and "SHIP IT" - in the words of Seth Godin. So many of us hide behind revision after revision. Or we start a project and completely abandon it because it does not meet the standards we had in our minds. Or we do finish it and polish it but then it sits in a desk drawer. In this podcast we will discuss how to actually put your art or business ideas into the world - even if you feel nervous to take that step.Also! Announcement - I will be posting here on the podcast every Thursday now. See you in a week!New YouTube Channel on external / macro ideas (most of these will also be posted on the podcast in audio format but in case you ever like to see the visual components as well) https://www.youtube.com/@ContemplationsOnTheInternet---------Podcast with Adam Grant and David Duchovny referenced in this episode https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worklife-with-adam-grant/id1346314086?i=1000654720827Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

I wrote this free verse poem because when I was 22 I feared getting older. Society makes us feel as women, that we will lose our value, or have less to offer as we age. But the older I get the more I see the opposite is true. I hope this helps some women lean into the idea of getting better over the years. Would love to hear your thoughts on this idea in the comments where you are listening if the app allows or on the YouTube channel here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pf1CrsE5lo Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

How do we know if we set the right goal? This podcast has a question you can ask yourself to know. And mindset shifts if you are not sure.  I won't bury the lead - it is about leaning into the hard part and not trying to "escape parts of life." But how do we do that? Let's explore that together here. Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

This episode is about breaking the cycle of quitting and joining the cycle of mastery. We discuss the book Mastery by George Leonard - and how to climb to the next level, we have to learn to love the plateau. We will often be on a plateau for a while before taking a small jump, and this process will repeat many times throughout skill acquisition. We can learn to love the process though. I am still working on this, and this podcast includes some thoughts on the subject. I would love to hear your thoughts as well in the comments below. Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

This podcast episode is for anyone who feels creatively blocked or like they have something inside of them but are afraid, too busy, or for other reasons they have held back for months or years. Additionally, the episode is for people who are simply curious about The Artist's Way, even if they do not identify as artists, or those who have finished it and want to connect through how it impacted them as well.I completed Julia Cameron's 12-week course on Creativity, called The Artist's Way, just last week. I'm sharing here:What I learned and how the course benefited meA review (the things I liked about the course and a few things I tweaked along the way to make it more workable for me)And a few tangible pieces of advice if you are about to embark on this course.Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In this episode we discuss: If we have lost track of what we really want and are chasing a SYMBOL of success, instead of the real thing. We also explore if we have gotten stuck in certain patterns or stories of how success is supposed to look. But who says it has to look one way? We can re-align with our True North and find our way back to what we want in our core. Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

In this podcast, we will explore the following: • What race are we running? Are we even running the same race as the person we are comparing ourselves against?• Upward and downward social comparisons – what are they, and are they beneficial or detrimental? • How to gain some perspective when we feel nervous or over-invested in certain outcomes. Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

If you feel like something is missing in your life, that just may be the case. Humans crave adventure, meaning, and to be a part of something bigger than themselves - unfortunately this is not how many of our lives in the modern world are constructed. So how do we go about finding this meaning, fulfillment, and adventure if it is not necessarily inherent to our daily lives anymore? This is where we dive into finding that.We discuss: • Examples of areas to find meaning, adventure, or connection• How this relates to Maslow's hierarchy of needs• Some questions to ask yourself if you are uncertain of the next steps to takeHere is part 2: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318937/episodes/16757920Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

“How do we actually stick to the workout plan, stop procrastinating, or break the pull of the vice we have been hooked on?” These questions bounced around in my mind for a long time. I studied, read, and wrote on them, but after years of searching, a large part of the solution was realizing that there actually weren't any simple solutions. Finally seeing that I was looking for a hack or a tip to try to escape the moment of choice. What if part of the solution is leaning INTO the human freedom we are all faced with in our tough choices?That freedom we are trying to run from when we make a bold claim such as: I will never do _____ again. Or I will always do _______. (Fill in the blank with a goal you have quit on, a habit that is hard to change, or a resolution that has spent years on your mind in January and always gone a few months later.) What if the answer is in philosophy, not psychology? If you set out to change a habit, and then something consistently derails you, this week’s episode is for you. Whether your Achilles heel is changing how you eat, reducing screen time, or another behavior - I believe this applies to all of us from time to time. In this video/podcast we will explore the following:Sartre's notion of good faithOne tip that has changed my life in regard to thisBehavioral economics and the U-shaped curve of motivationAn experiment you can try, which helps apply the advice in this episode  Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

And if it is, does that mean we can be whoever we want to be? In this week's podcast I discuss the ways our personality is stable (genetics, temperament etc.) and we separate out the ways we have taken on a personality, similar to an unconscious costume, to get our needs met in the world. Other topics covered: How we have told ourselves stories about who we are - can we change the story?What does the research say about this? Personality tests and typing Comparison: comparing ourselves to others, to prior versions of ourselves, and comparing our personality in different settings. Ego and identity - forming a notion of who we are based on what we are rewarded for.Is personality simply a pattern we have fallen into? And if so, how do we change it and form new patterns? (If desired) How fixed or fluid is personality really? Listen to dive in.   Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

Sometimes it feels as if life is moving too fast. We don't have time for what matters to us. We aren't even enjoying it. Life is coming at us rather than getting to fully experience it. We look back on the years - where did they go? This podcast episode is about that. Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel

If you keep fantasizing about doing something, you keep thinking about it, planning, dreaming, idealizing, and you never really get started: In this podcast episode we will cover some reasons why this happens and what we can do to break out of the cycle. Leave a voice message hereNewsletter sign up YouTube - channel