Join Jodi Wellman, author and positive psychologist, as she shares her insights on living a meaningful life with a humorous twist. They discuss the transformative power of death awareness, emphasizing how confronting mortality can motivate vibrant living. Jodi challenges the conventional retirement mindset, advocating for engagement in the present. She introduces the thought-provoking ‘Double Obituary Exercise’ to help clarify what truly matters, urging listeners to align their daily actions with their desired legacy and live fully before it’s too late.
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insights INSIGHT
Self-Deception About Death
People avoid making important life decisions by deceiving themselves about their mortality.
They may claim they will "live forever," avoiding planning or taking action.
insights INSIGHT
Fear as a Dream Inhibitor
Fear, not just busyness, prevents people from pursuing their dreams.
This fear often manifests as delaying action, waiting for retirement or a less busy time.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Bored in Retirement
Greg McKeown observed two retired couples in Spain who seemed bored and disengaged.
He questions if this "relaxing to our demise" is the best way to spend retirement.
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Quiet
The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking
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The Power of Passion and Perseverance
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You Only Die Once
How to Make It to the End with No Regrets
Jodi Wellman
Essentialism
The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
Greg McKeown
In 'Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less,' Greg McKeown argues that by applying a more selective criteria for what is essential, individuals can regain control of their time and energy. The book is divided into sections such as Explore, Eliminate, and Execute, providing practical advice on distinguishing the vital few from the trivial many and eliminating non-essential activities. McKeown emphasizes the importance of clarity of focus, the ability to say 'no,' and living 'by design, not by default.' This approach helps readers achieve more by doing less and making the highest possible contribution in their personal and professional lives.
About the Guest:
Jodi Wellman is the author of You Only Die Once, a book that approaches the topic of living a meaningful life with a darkly humorous twist. With a career spanning 25 years, Jodi is a seasoned positive psychologist, executive coach, and founder who has delivered keynotes, workshops, and coaching programs. She collaborates with some of the world's leading researchers on happiness and well-being, and is dedicated to helping people enhance their life's quality and vitality.
Episode Summary:
Greg celebrates the ten-year anniversary of his seminal work, "Essentialism," and welcomes Jodi Wellman, author of "You Only Die Once." The conversation revolves around the critical idea of death awareness as a tool for making life more meaningful and joyful. They explore the discomfort and avoidance many people have toward the topic of death and the consequent deferral of their dreams.
Jodi shares practical exercises and thought-provoking insights to help people confront their mortality and use that awareness to live more vibrant lives. The episode touches on how societal norms often prioritize careers over personal lives and relationships
Key Takeaways:
Death Awareness as a Tool: The awareness of our own mortality can be a powerful motivator to live more fully and meaningfully.
Overcoming Fear: People often defer their dreams not out of busy schedules, but due to fear and self-doubt.
The Double Obituary Exercise: Writing an obituary can help pinpoint what truly matters, allowing us to align our lives with our ultimate goals and values.
Importance of Relationships: The biggest contributors to enduring happiness are often our social and familial relationships.
Living Fully Now: Rather than postponing joys and aspirations to an uncertain future, find ways to integrate meaningful experiences into the present.
Notable Quotes:
"Death awareness, death acceptance, it's a spectrum." – Jodi Wellman
"What about the life you're living now? Doesn't that deserve to get lived the crap out of?" – Jodi Wellman
"Sometimes it's the simple, sweet things that deliver the essence of life." – Jodi Wellman
"Do not procrastinate the day of your repentance." – Greg McKeown
"It's about paying attention to what brings you joy now and making sure your current life is fulfilling." – Greg McKeown
The Greg McKeown Podcast 
