
The OptimalWork Podcast
Hosted by Dr. Kevin Majeres and Sharif Younes, co-founders of OptimalWork, The OptimalWork Podcast will help you learn to challenge yourself in each hour of work according to your highest ideals. We discuss all aspects of Dr. Majeres's approach to work, which he developed in his private practice and teaches at Harvard Medical School, and show how it applies to everyday situations like professional work, study, sleep, and relationships.
For personalized plans to help you put the ideas into practice, visit www.OptimalWork.com.
Please send questions for discussion to team@optimalwork.com.
Latest episodes

Dec 25, 2023 • 28min
[Rebroadcast] How to Broadcast Positive Emotions
#175: Whether we’re aware of it or not, we’re always broadcasting our own inner experience. By shaping our actions according to our ideals, we forget about ourselves and create a positive tone around us. In this episode, we’ll show you psychological strategies for how to do this.
Find more at https://www.OptimalWork.com.

Dec 18, 2023 • 34min
174. The Paradoxes of Mindfulness
Explore the paradoxes of mindfulness, including the balance between acceptance and change. Learn about the concept of mindfulness and its role in attaining human excellence. Delve into the paradox of escape versus engagement in mindfulness. Discover how to practice mindfulness in just a few minutes a day for improved awareness.

4 snips
Dec 11, 2023 • 30min
173. From Tolerance to Acceptance to Love
The podcast explores the different ways we relate to challenges, focusing on approach and avoidance. It breaks down approach into three levels: tolerating, accepting, and loving the challenge. The hosts discuss a new course on anxiety work and the stages of anxiety management. They also explore overcoming phobias through exposure therapy and the concept of embracing anxiety and cravings. Finally, they delve into the importance of moving from tolerance to acceptance to love in relationships.

Dec 4, 2023 • 28min
[Rebroadcast] How to Work Intensely without Stressing Yourself Out
The podcast discusses achieving intensity at work without stress by prioritizing quality, embracing challenges, and reframing mindfulness. It explores strategic procrastination, the relationship between focus and outcome goals, and the importance of having a positive attitude towards challenges.

Nov 27, 2023 • 29min
[Rebroadcast] Choose Flow, Not Hyperfocus
Distinguish between hyperfocus and true flow, and learn how to always achieve the latter. Explore the concept of flow, its indicators, and controllability. Discover the difference between hyperfocus and flow, and the importance of working in a state of flow for improved productivity and effectiveness.

Nov 20, 2023 • 34min
170. Should You Be Doing Therapy at Work?
#170: With rising rates of anxiety and depression, some have suggested that managers be trained to provide “mental-health first aid” to employees in distress. In this episode, we discuss the best ways managers can help employees thrive at work, how to help them grow, and how to balance the need to get results from their teams with the ideal of supporting and mentoring them.
Find more at https://OptimalWork.com

12 snips
Nov 13, 2023 • 32min
169. How to Persuade Your Emotions
The podcast discusses strategies for behavior change, including preventing distractions and building self-mastery. It explores the relationship between predictions, emotions, and moral virtues. The difference between outcome goals and growth goals is explained, along with strategies for personal growth. The speakers share their experiences with managing addictive behaviors and extreme personalities. The chapter on persuading emotions emphasizes the power of repetition and holding onto our beliefs.

Nov 6, 2023 • 27min
168. The True Value of Reframing
Discover the transformative power of reframing challenges into growth opportunities. Learn how shifting negative thoughts can turn anxiety into enthusiasm, particularly in high-pressure situations like public speaking. Explore how reframing daily tasks connects with personal ideals, fostering fulfillment and resilience. The podcast emphasizes practical mindfulness strategies that enhance personal growth and the importance of nurturing relationships. By aligning actions with high ideals, listeners are reminded that meaningful outcomes are achievable even amidst challenges.

Oct 30, 2023 • 34min
167. The Power of a Golden Hour
Explore the concept of the 'golden hour' and its impact on productivity. Discover how the golden hour shapes personal growth and improves work performance. Learn practical strategies for implementing the golden hour and starting a focused work session. Find out how the golden hour tool on OptumWork.com can help individuals in different circumstances.

Oct 23, 2023 • 29min
166. Why Embracing Shame Will Help You Thrive
Exploring how shame can shape our actions and hinder personal growth. Understanding the relationship between shame, self-concepts, and anxiety. Managing with humility and acceptance of failure. Embracing failure and shame as catalysts for growth.