In this book, Brad Stulberg presents a healthier model for success that counters the 'always-on' hustle culture. Groundedness, the central concept, values presence over productivity, accepts nonlinear progress, and prioritizes long-term fulfillment. The book interweaves case studies, modern science, and ancient wisdom from Buddhism, Stoicism, and Taoism to teach readers how to cultivate a more grounded life. Key practices include accepting where you are, being present, developing patience, embracing vulnerability, building deep community, and focusing on the process rather than outcomes.
In 'Good Inside,' Dr. Becky Kennedy shares her parenting philosophy, which focuses on building strong relationships with children rather than merely shaping their behavior. The book critiques traditional parenting methods like reward charts and time-outs, which fail to address children's complex emotional needs. Dr. Kennedy provides actionable strategies and troubleshooting for various parenting challenges, such as sibling rivalry, separation anxiety, and tantrums. Her approach helps parents move from uncertainty and self-blame to confidence and sturdy leadership, emphasizing the importance of compassion and understanding in parenting.
This book, written by Dr. David D. Burns, outlines scientifically proven techniques based on CBT to help readers overcome negative thoughts and develop a positive outlook on life. It addresses common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, guilt, and low self-esteem by identifying and correcting cognitive distortions. The book provides practical advice on recognizing and changing negative thought patterns, handling criticism, building self-esteem, and improving overall mental well-being.
This classic novel by Robert M. Pirsig is a personal and philosophical odyssey that delves into the author's search for meaning. The narrative follows a father and his son on a summer motorcycle trip from the Midwest to California, intertwining a travelogue with deep philosophical discussions. The book explores the concept of 'quality' and how it informs a well-lived life, reconciling science, religion, and humanism. It also touches on the author's own struggles with his past and his philosophical quest, making it a touching and transcendent exploration of human experience and endeavor.
In 'Factfulness,' Hans Rosling, along with his son Ola and daughter-in-law Anna, addresses why people systematically get answers wrong about global trends. They identify ten instincts that distort our perspective, such as dividing the world into 'us' and 'them,' the influence of fear-driven media, and the misconception that most things are getting worse. The book argues that, despite its imperfections, the world is in a better state than many believe and provides a framework to see progress clearly by focusing on facts rather than biases.
This book, first published in 1989, outlines seven habits that are designed to help individuals become more effective in their personal and professional lives. The habits are grouped into three categories: Private Victory (habits 1-3), Public Victory (habits 4-6), and Renewal (habit 7). The habits include being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, putting first things first, thinking win-win, seeking first to understand and then to be understood, synergizing, and sharpening the saw. Covey emphasizes the importance of personal integrity, effective time management, empathetic communication, and continuous self-improvement[2][5][4].
Enjoy this re-release of one of my top listened to episodes with my guest, Brad Stulberg.
This week’s episode of the Growth Guide Podcast features Brad Stulberg. Brad joined us today to talk about his book, The Practice of Groundedness: A Transformative Path to Success That Feeds—Not Crushes—Your Soul.
Brad is a writer, researcher, and performance coach and is also the co-author of: Peak Performance: Elevate Your Game, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive with the New Science of Success.
In today's conversation, we explore the concept of "heroic individualism" and how it often traps individuals in a cycle of constant striving without fulfillment. We discuss the importance of aligning one's public and private selves for mental well-being and the pitfalls of social media's exaggerated reality.
Brad shares insights on mindfulness, patience, and the impact of language on personal growth, drawing from ancient wisdom and modern psychology to craft a comprehensive framework for thriving in chaos.
[06.38] Blessing and a curse – Brad shares his opinion about the lack of boundaries between work and life.
[14.08] Enjoying the journey – If we do not enjoy doing something, we won’t find enjoyment at the end of it.
[20.46] Social Media – We discuss how we are consumed by the false happiness of people in electronic media.
[26.40] Stoicism and Buddhism – How the teachings of stoicism and Buddhism about being in the present moment which leads us to feel better and do better.
[31.50] Behavioral activation – A key component of acceptance and commitment therapy.
[38.33] Therapeutic toolkit – The Buddhist way of considering thoughts as thoughts and not taking them seriously.
[45.06] Want vs. need – The more we focus on what we want rather than what we need, the better.
[01.01.25] Productivity vs. productive activity – Brad explains the difference between productivity and productive activity.
[01.10.31] Consistency compounds – Brad shares some practices to be consistent and stay on the path.
[01.22.38] Front vs backstage self – Front stage is the performative self, and the backstage is who you really are. The less distance between them, the better.
Resources
Connect with Brad
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/brad-stulberg-009b168b/
Website - bradstulberg.com/
Twitter - twitter.com/BStulberg
Instagram - instagram.com/bradstulberg/?hl=en
Book by Brad
The Practice of Groundedness: A Transformative Path to Success That Feeds—Not Crushes—Your Soul
Book by Brad Stulberg & Steve Magness
Peak Performance: Elevate Your Game, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive with the New Science of Success
Book by David D. Burns
Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy
Book by Stephen R. Covey
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change
The Growth Guide: Self-Improvement | Greatness | Impact | Creators | FI | 
