The OptimalWork Podcast

#202: In his book “The Confident Mind,” Dr. Nate Zinsser, shares the approach he’s developed as the director of West Point’s Performance Psychology Program and consultant for numerous elite athletes. His insights, which center on the idea of confidence, can be transformative not only for preparing for combat and athletic competitions, but also for approach challenges in everyday life. In this episode, Dr. Kevin Majeres and Sharif discuss his work, compare it to OptimalWork’s approach, and identify one key idea that would enhance Dr. Zinsser’s analysis. Find more at ⁠https://www.OptimalWork.com⁠.

#201: When people face psychological challenges, they need to fully feel the difficult emotion in order to rise above it. Similarly, important bonds are greatly strengthened by fully feeling positive emotions — in order to second and intensify them. All people can benefit from the practice of mindfulness of the heart, a form of mindfulness that can be practiced all day long. Find more at ⁠https://www.OptimalWork.com⁠.

#200: Reframing lies at the heart of OptimalWork’s approach. In this episode, Dr Kevin Majeres and Sharif survey some precursors to reframing in the literature and practice of psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy, and what distinguishes reframing from these other approaches. Find more at ⁠https://www.OptimalWork.com⁠.

#199: The classic example of a courageous person is one who can approach the possibility of death in battle. But this case has little to do with work in the modern world. Is courage, then, irrelevant? In this episode, we discuss what courage means in a modern work context and why it is not just relevant, but essential for thriving. Find more at https://OptimalWork.com

#198: As you start to develop a new habit, you may meet internal resistance. Far from being a sign that you’re failing to build a virtuous cycle, facing internal resistance is actually a sign that you’re on the verge of real progress. Resistance is necessary in order to build true and lasting momentum and connect your new habits to deeper and more meaningful motives. Find more at ⁠https://www.OptimalWork.com⁠.

Dr. Majeres, a mental health expert, discusses the impact of complaining on our lives. She reveals that while venting can feel helpful, chronic complaining can weaken relationships and harm our well-being. The conversation explores the fine line between genuine feedback and unproductive discontent. Dr. Majeres emphasizes reframing challenges as opportunities for growth, promoting a more positive mindset. Listeners learn about the psychology behind complaints and the hidden dangers of negativity, encouraging them to foster constructive dialogue with others.

#196: In this episode, Sharif and Dr. Kevin Majeres discuss the concept of self-efficacy and its practical application in various examples. Self-efficacy is the brain's prediction of success right before engaging in a task. It affects motivation, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges. The key is to shape self-efficacy by widening the context of success and identifying concrete steps to improve performance. The examples discussed include dealing with a critical boss, learning a difficult subject, and staying focused on repetitive tasks. All of these situations require reframing challenges, setting goals, and maintaining intensity. These examples should help you see more clearly how to apply these principles in your own case. They also highlight that OptimalWork’s core principles — reframing and forming strategies — are not rules or rote formulas, but require your own flexibility, ingenuity, and creativity. Find more at https://OptimalWork.com

Dr. Kevin Majeres, a psychologist specializing in self-efficacy, joins renowned psychologist Albert Bandura, who pioneered the self-efficacy concept. They discuss how mastering specific tasks boosts confidence and promotes success in various life areas. The conversation highlights the difference between self-efficacy and self-esteem, emphasizing strategic ways to tackle challenges. By reframing challenges as growth opportunities, they unveil how to cultivate a growth mindset and empower oneself through practical steps, ultimately enhancing performance in academics and work.

#194: In this episode, Sharif and Dr. Kevin Majeres discuss Cal Newport's new book, “Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout.” “Slow Productivity” builds on themes he explores in his previous books: for instance, mastering your craft and focusing on the process of working. Here Newport focuses on three principles for achieving greater long-term productivity: doing fewer things, working at a natural pace, and improving the quality of your work. The conversation highlights the connection between Newport’s principles and the OptimalWork’s ideals of order, intensity, and constancy in work. It also touches on ways that OptimalWork’s approach complements Newport’s. Whereas Newport focuses on how to develop greater mastery, OptimalWork adds the purpose behind mastery: growing according to ideals, and developing bonds with others. Find more at https://OptimalWork.com

Dr. Kevin Majeres explains reframing as a key to personal growth. It's beyond positive thinking, focusing on finding growth in challenges. Topics include reframing social interactions, overcoming mistakes, and using challenges for peak performance.