Finding Purpose Through Pain

This week on the Journey to Launch Podcast, I’m joined by Karen Salmansohn, bestselling author, behavioral change expert, and creator of “Your To-Die-For Life: How to Maximize Joy and Minimize Regret Before Your Time Runs Out.” With over 2 million books sold, Karen brings a bold mix of research-based psychology and humor to help us snap out of autopilot and live with more intention.

We dive into the powerful idea that mortality awareness isn't morbid, it's motivating. Karen introduces the concept of a "near-life experience" and how many of us are living life adjacent, not fully present. We also explore the connection between core values, money, happiness, and how to design your life with fewer regrets.

In this episode we discuss:

• Core values that prevent future regret and help guide daily decisions
• How identity shapes habits and long-term financial wellness
• The difference between fleeting pleasure and deep fulfillment
• Why growth, curiosity, and authenticity matter more than productivity
• Strategies to discover your high-level purpose—even if you don’t know it yet

Other related blog posts/links mentioned in this episode:

• Check out Karen's book: Your To-Die-For Life
• Apply to Share Your Journeyer Story here.
• Join the Journey to Launch Book Club to dive deeper into financial freedom with guided discussions and resources here! 
• Get your copy of my book: Your Journey To Financial Freedom!
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• Get The Budget Bootcamp
• Check out my personal website here.
• Leave me a voicemail– Leave me a question on the Journey To Launch voicemail and have it answered on the podcast!
• YNAB –  Start managing your money and budgeting so that you can reach your financial dreams. Sign up for a free 34 days trial of YNAB, my go-to budgeting app by using my referral link.
• What stage of the financial journey are you on? Are you working on financial stability or work flexibility? Find out with this free assessment and get a curated list of the 10 next best episodes for you to listen to depending on your stage. Check it out here!

Connect with Karen:

• Website
• Instagram:@NotSalmon
• Twitter:@NotSalmon

Connect with me:

• Instagram: @Journeytolaunch
• Twitter: @JourneyToLaunch
• Facebook: @Journey To Launch
• Join the Private Facebook Group
• Join the Waitlist for My FI Course
• Get The Free Jumpstart Guide