Optimal Living Daily: Personal Development & Minimalism

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 3772: Robert Glazer shares how discovering and defining his core values transformed his leadership from a patchwork imitation of others into an authentic, values-driven approach. By aligning decisions and relationships with clearly defined principles, he unlocked his potential as both a leader and a person, and reveals why true leadership requires authenticity, self-awareness, and clarity of values. Get free access to Robert's Core Values course when you buy a hardcover copy of his book by October 17. This course has helped thousands of leaders identify their core values. To claim it, buy a hardcover copy and register it through this form. Quotes to ponder: "Level 5 leadership can only be built on a foundation of authenticity and self-awareness, a foundation that only comes with a clear understanding of one’s core values." "When you don't know or c

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 3771: Colin Wright explores how our perception of time shifts depending on attention, novelty, and emotional state, and how that subjectivity can work either against us or for us. By becoming more deliberate about how we structure our days, we can slow down experiences, extend meaningful moments, and cultivate a deeper sense of presence in everyday life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://exilelifestyle.com/subjectivity-time/ Quotes to ponder: "Time can feel like it’s racing past, like it’s dragging, or like it’s standing still, depending on how we’re experiencing it." "We have some influence over how quickly or slowly time seems to pass, based on what we do and how we engage with what we’re doing." "When we’re present, novel experiences seem to stretch, and we walk away feeling as if we’ve lived more fully." Learn more about you

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 3770: Steve Pavlina explains how the first hour of each morning acts as a rudder that steers the rest of the day. By consciously choosing activities that create clarity, focus, and energy, you can set yourself on a path of productivity and positive momentum rather than allowing old habits or external influences to take over. His insights highlight how small, intentional choices early in the day compound into a powerful sense of direction. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2005/05/the-rudder-of-the-day/ Quotes to ponder: "The first hour is the rudder of the day." "Choose your first hour wisely, and it will steer your day in the direction you want to go." "Starting the day in a state of laziness, sloppiness, or distraction guarantees that the day will continue on that path." Learn more about your ad choices.

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 3769: Ingrid Y. Helander explores how frustration, anxiety, and anger often arise when we “trip” over hidden parts of ourselves. By using mindful techniques rooted in Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal theory, and journaling, she shows how to compassionately recognize these inner parts and shift from pain into clarity. Her practical steps help transform emotional roadblocks into deeper self-understanding and healthier relationships. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ingridyhelanderlmft.com/are-you-frustrated-anxious-or-angry-listen-inside-you-may-be-tripping/ Quotes to ponder: “It's so important to have the openness and curiosity of another person’s wise eyes and ears when we feel frustrated.” “Get enough perspective to kindly observe this part of you that's saying painful things or has yucky feelings. THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT

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 3768: Rachel Shanken reminds us that emotions are not weaknesses but powerful signals that guide us to deeper self-awareness, connection, and joy. By embracing the full spectrum of our feelings through embodied mindfulness, we unlock a hidden superpower that enhances both inner peace and emotional resilience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mindbodywise.com/blog/how-to-tap-into-your-secret-super-power/ Quotes to ponder: "You have emotions. Your emotions are a huge part of what make you human." "When you stop resisting, you live with more peace and ease with the ability to experience more joy." "Resist the urge to try to make sense of or logic through your feelings…this is the job of the mind, but not the job of the heart." 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 3767: Irene Elias shares simple yet powerful strategies to stop letting insecurity and self-consciousness hold you back. By shifting perspective, practicing self-compassion, and gently pushing past comfort zones, she offers a path to greater resilience, confidence, and emotional freedom. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://selflovejunkie.com/how-to-overcome-feeling-self-conscious-insecure-and-sensitive/ Quotes to ponder: "Being self-conscious isn’t always a bad thing. It shows that you care and that you want to do your best." "Confidence is not about never feeling insecure; it’s about feeling insecure and doing it anyway." "Start small, and slowly build your confidence muscle by pushing yourself to do things that make you slightly uncomfortable." 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 3766: Marc Chernoff highlights subtle but powerful signs that the people around you may be draining your energy, undermining your growth, or holding you back from the life you deserve. His insights show how to recognize toxic influences, protect your well-being, and surround yourself with relationships that genuinely uplift and support you. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.marcandangel.com/2013/06/09/9-warning-signs-youre-in-bad-company/ Quotes to ponder: "Don’t let the negative people in your life control your behavior." "Pay attention to the people who don’t clap when you win." "Surround yourself with people who lift you higher." Books by Marc and Angel: https://www.marcandangel.com/book/ 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 3765: Karl Staib shares how journaling and meditation can help calm anxiety by bringing more awareness to everyday emotions and expectations. Through the practice of an awareness journal, he shows how tuning into your feelings can transform stress into self-understanding, creating more presence, resilience, and joy in daily life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://digtofly.com/calm-your-anxiety-with-a-self-awareness-journal/ Quotes to ponder: "Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important." "When you start your awareness journal you want to keep track of your thoughts and how they trigger your emotions." "The most amazing part of an Awareness Journal is that life becomes more joyful." Episode references: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Highly-Eff

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 3764: James Altucher distills the essence of happiness and pleasure into raw, honest observations about living freely, thinking clearly, and creating daily meaning. Through reflections on simplicity, authenticity, and emotional independence, he reminds us that true joy isn’t found in chasing more, but in letting go, showing up for yourself, and embracing what actually matters. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://archive.jamesaltucher.com/blog/greatest-pleasures-life/ AND https://archive.jamesaltucher.com/blog/being-happy/ Quotes to ponder: "The greatest pleasure in life is doing what you want, when you want, with whom you want, for as long as you want." "Being happy means being free of the lies we tell ourselves every day." "The best way to be happy is to be honest with yourself and do things that make you feel creative, connecte

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 3763: Rose Lounsbury explores how shopping often goes beyond necessity and becomes a way to seek comfort, identity, or even a temporary sense of control. By reflecting on why we shop and how our purchases align, or don’t, with our values, she offers a pathway toward more intentional living and freedom from clutter. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://roselounsbury.com/shopping/ Quotes to ponder: "Shopping feels good. New things feel good. They distract us from our pain." "When we shop without awareness, we buy things that don’t match our values, and they clutter up our homes and lives." "True freedom comes when we stop looking to things to solve problems that only we can solve for ourselves." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3762: Elizabeth McDonnell explains how resistance often keeps us stuck, but even the smallest step forward can spark momentum and clarity. By choosing action over fear, she shows how we can build trust in ourselves and move toward a life that feels more aligned and free. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://tinybuddha.com/blog/taking-action-toward-new-life-moving-resistance/ Quotes to ponder: "Action is what dissolves fear." "When you act, you send a message to yourself that you are capable and trustworthy." "Taking one small step forward shifts your energy from fear to possibility." 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 3761: Len Penzo challenges the everyday excuses people make for poor money management, showing how misplaced priorities often lead to financial struggles. Through relatable examples, he highlights the importance of aligning spending with true needs rather than justifying bad habits. Listeners will gain clarity on how to spot these patterns and shift toward more intentional financial choices. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://lenpenzo.com/blog/id1591-how-misplaced-priorities-lead-to-lame-financial-excuses-3.html Quotes to ponder: "Too many people claim they can't afford to save for retirement, but they somehow always manage to find money for cable TV and other non-essentials." "Misplaced priorities are almost always the root cause behind lame financial excuses." "People who constantly complain about their lack of money often have

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 3760: Ryan Holiday explores the timeless virtue of sangfroid, the art of keeping calm under pressure, and how it has shaped the success of leaders, athletes, and creatives throughout history. By cultivating composure in moments of chaos, he shows how anyone can transform setbacks into strength and approach challenges with clarity and confidence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanholiday.net/sangfroid-art-cool-pressure-success/ Quotes to ponder: "Anyone can be cool in the calm. Anyone can be disciplined when things are going well. But being calm and disciplined in chaos? That’s true coolness." "This is what sangfroid means: cold blood. It’s the art of keeping your head while everyone else is losing theirs." "The person who can keep their cool when others cannot is a force to be reckoned with." Episode references: Letters fr

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 3759: Randi Kay reflects on the complicated role social media plays in our lives, offering a candid perspective on both its creative potential and its draining effects. She invites readers to rethink how they engage with these platforms and encourages a healthier, more intentional relationship with digital spaces. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.naturallyrandikay.com/post/some-thoughts-on-social-media Quotes to ponder: "I’ve been having quite the journey with social media these days." "At times, it feels like a beautiful way to connect, create, and share. Other times, it feels like a soul-sucking waste of time." "I want to show up in ways that are authentic, meaningful, and aligned with who I really am." 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 3758: Tyler Tervooren explains research showing that people who believe their willpower is unlimited perform better under stress, and that you can train this by changing small actions into automatic wins. Listening will teach practical, science-backed steps to shift habits and sustain self-control throughout the day. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.riskology.co/never-ending-willpower/ Quotes to ponder: "What they learned goes against many decades of research, but their findings are fascinating." "Turns out, students showing massive amounts of willpower despite high levels of stress did one thing differently than those who struggled." "You can trick yourself into exerting great amounts of willpower all day every day regardless how much you have to use, and you can still make good decisions even when you’re exhausted." Learn

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 3757: Psych Alive explores why procrastination is less about poor time management and more about managing difficult emotions. By uncovering the role of self-critical thoughts and fear-driven avoidance, the article provides tools to move past resistance and take meaningful action. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.psychalive.org/stop-procrastinating/ Quotes to ponder: "Most of us are all too familiar with the sinking feeling that comes with putting off an important task." "Procrastination is not a time management problem; it’s an emotional regulation problem." "We often fail to realize that the very strategies we use to protect ourselves from uncomfortable feelings are the ones that keep us stuck." Episode references: Procrastination: Why You Do It, What to Do About It Now: https://www.amazon.com/Procrastination-You-What-Do

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 3756: Derek Sivers challenges the obsession with staying busy by showing how being “unmotivated” can actually point to what truly matters. He also explains how seemingly contradictory traits can coexist within us, proving that life is richer when we embrace nuance instead of choosing rigid labels. His reflections invite us to slow down, listen to our inner signals, and accept our complexity. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://sivers.org/unmo⁠ AND https://sivers.org/dc Quotes to ponder: "When you feel unmotivated, don’t try to push through. Instead, take it as a sign that what you’re doing doesn’t matter enough." "People want to put you in a box, but you contain contradictions. You can be both ambitious and content, both introverted and outgoing." "Life is richer when you don’t try to resolve contradictions, but instead hold them

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 3755: J.D. Roth reflects on his ongoing battle with clutter and the emotional weight of owning too much. Through personal stories of simplifying, he highlights how letting go of unnecessary possessions can create more space for freedom, clarity, and the things that truly matter. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getrichslowly.org/further-adventures-in-my-war-on-stuff/ Quotes to ponder: "I’ve been waging a war against Stuff for more than a decade now." "What I’m striving for is a sort of comfortable minimalism. I want to own things I actually use and love." "It feels liberating to get rid of things, to release them into the wild so that others can use them." Episode references: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing/dp/1607747308 Your Money or Your

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 3754: Nir Eyal explains how to manage distractions by focusing on the internal triggers that spark them, rather than fighting the urges themselves. Through practical techniques like writing down triggers, exploring sensations with curiosity, and “surfing the urge,” he shows how to turn fleeting impulses into opportunities for self-mastery and improved focus. These methods help us stay present, avoid reactive behaviors, and build resilience against everyday temptations. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nirandfar.com/internal-triggers/ Quotes to ponder: “I’m feeling that tension in my chest right now. And there I go, trying to reach for my iPhone.” “One of Bricker’s favorite techniques is the ‘leaves on a stream’ method.” “This rule allows time to do what some behavioral psychologists call ‘surfing the urge.’” Episode refere

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 3753: True transformation begins in the mind, and Jillian Teta highlights six powerful mental and emotional concepts that can reshape how we approach body change. From shifting control into discipline, embracing responsibility without shame, and practicing acceptance without defeat, to aligning goals with realistic expectations, cultivating gratitude, and choosing empowering perspectives, these insights create a foundation for lasting progress and self-compassion. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jillfit.com/2012/06/01/mind-body-101-key-concepts/ Quotes to ponder: "Control is an illusion. Discipline is the conscious application of choice, over and over." "Acceptance is not defeat or denial but a kind act towards ourselves." "Our most powerful tool is our perspective." Episode references: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkab