The OptimalWork Podcast

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.

Learn how automaticity can hinder growth and the importance of setting growth goals. Discover how to reframe challenges as opportunities with the Reframer tool on OptimalWork.com. Explore infusing daily tasks with mindfulness and ideals for personal development.

#191: In this episode, Sharif and Dr. Kevin Majeres review the book “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt. “The Anxious Generation” attributes the skyrocketing levels of anxiety among youth, particularly Gen Z, in large part to the widespread use of smartphones and social media. The negative effects of smartphones include social disconnection, sleep deprivation, attentional problems, and addiction. Haidt recommends dramatically restricting kids’ access to the “virtual world,” while also encouraging them to engage more with the real world. Sharif and Dr. Majeres summarize Haidt’s insights and show how they connect to key OptimalWork concepts like challenge and ideals. Find more at https://OptimalWork.com

#190: In her recent best-seller “Bad Therapy,” Abigail Shrier argues that therapy for children causes more problems than it solves. Shrier critiques the approach many therapists take as based on a flawed understanding of human nature, and she also draws attention to data suggesting that modern therapy is not stopping the increase in rates of anxiety, depression, etc. and may even be increasing them. In this episode, Sharif and Dr. Kevin Majeres explore Shrier’s work, arguing that while much of her critique is valid, it only applies to a certain subset of therapy. The solution to bad psychology is good psychology, not no psychology. Find more at https://OptimalWork.com

One of the least-discussed emotions may be the most powerful in bringing about well-being. When was the last time you were filled with awe? People may think of awe as a nice-to-have emotion, but not needed for living a good life. Recent research, however, suggests that awe may be essential to true thriving. Find more at https://OptimalWork.com

#188: It can be tempting to fit people into our categories: we think things like, “she’s sanguine,” “he’s not good at math,” “she’s shy,” “he’s melancholic.” We may even convince ourselves that these labels help us people as they want to or ought to be treated. But taken too far, labels prevent us from forming meaningful relationships with people. They can limit what we say or do, leading us to avoid certain topics of conversation or shared activities, and sometimes even introduce fear into the relationship. To form true bonds, we need to be radically open to the other person and treat them as a unique individual. Find more at https://OptimalWork.com

Exploring the brain's predictions and anxiety responses, this podcast delves into shifting perspectives, integrating therapy techniques, and retraining the amygdala for positivity. Learn how to harness anxiety for personal growth and transformation by setting clear goals and channeling energy towards constructive outcomes.

Dive into Internal Family Systems therapy to understand our inner protectors and exiles in conflict. Learn how curiosity and compassion can lead to resilience and growth, offering valuable tools for self-therapy. Explore the theory behind IFS, transforming inner critics and managers with cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. Approach inner conflict with compassion and connection for emotional healing and personal growth.