Start with Small Steps

141 - Identifying Root Problems in Life I delve into the crucial topic of identifying root causes when dealing with problems in our lives. I use relatable examples like weight loss and dating to highlight how we often treat symptoms instead of getting to the issue's core. I recommend handy tools like the fishbone diagram and the "five whys" to dig deep and uncover the real culprits behind our problems. So why waste time on quick fixes when tackling root causes can pave the way for real progress in our lives? https://startwithsmallsteps.com/141-identifying-root-problems-in-life Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

140 - Bring the Real You on Dates I talk about the book called The Selfish Romantic. It debunks the common myths around dating and relationships that we all fall for. Instead, the book emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself and communicating your needs in a relationship. One of the most interesting ideas is about treating dating as an experiment. How exciting is that? You get to be curious about the other person while setting boundaries and keeping yourself physically safe. The author encourages readers to relax and not put too much pressure on themselves while still enjoying the process. So, if you want to improve your dating life and find a partner that truly fits you, The Selfish Romantic is worth checking out! https://www.michelleelman.com/books/ https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3619 Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

139 - True Romance Meets Your Needs Are you tired of the same old dating advice that doesn't work? The Selfish Romantic debunks common myths about dating and relationships and encourages readers to be true to themselves, communicate honestly, and treat dating as an experiment. Don't put too much pressure on yourself to find "the one" - instead, actively participate in your love life and approach dating with curiosity and an open mind. The author emphasizes the importance of honesty and authenticity while dating, reminding readers to be themselves and learn more about their potential partners. Whether you're getting back into the dating world or just looking to improve your experiences, The Selfish Romantic offers practical tips and advice to help you find love on your terms. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3613 https://www.michelleelman.com/books/ Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

138 - Bickering Leaders of Star Wars The episode offers an analysis of leadership in the Star Wars franchise while providing valuable insights into effective leadership in real life. I explore the topic of leadership in the Star Wars franchise. I analyze the different leadership styles of various characters and focus on Princess Leia's approach to leadership, which is caring, wise, and proactive. I emphasize the importance of empathy, collaboration, communication, and understanding different perspectives in effective leadership. I encourage listeners to learn from the mistakes and successes of the leaders in Star Wars to become better leaders in their own lives. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3502 Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

137 - What If We Can’t Get to Maybe I chat about the book The Gift of Maybe by Allison Carmen. It's all about this concept called "getting to maybe." It means being open to different possibilities and embracing uncertainty. But let's be real, fear and a need for control can seriously get in the way of this. If you can’t get to maybe, you can be neutral until you have more information. The author offers some amazing tips on practicing mindfulness and changing negative thought patterns to help you feel more comfortable with uncertainty and embrace the power of "maybe." Can failure be a good thing? By reframing how we view failure, we can use it as a learning opportunity to help us grow and move forward. So, are you ready to get to maybe? https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3497 https://www.allisoncarmen.com Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

136 - Open the Door to Possibilities I talk about the book by Allison Carmen “The Gift of Maybe” with a unique perspective on embracing uncertainty. I explore the potential of "maybe" as you imagine yourself standing in front of a series of doors, each representing a different choice. With Allison's guidance, you'll discover the incredible emotions and endless possibilities that come with each door. Let go of past decisions that may hold you back while still drawing on the wisdom gained from those experiences. I talk about practicing mindfulness and embracing the power of "maybe" in your daily life. Are you ready to unlock a whole new world of possibilities? https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3491 https://www.allisoncarmen.com Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

135 - Why is Certainty So Comfy? I discuss the book Gift of Maybe by Alison Carmen, who shares her journey towards embracing uncertainty as a gift that has transformed her life. Her book, which reflects on the power of the word "maybe," is a must-read for anyone struggling with the need for certainty. I encourage us to take small steps and let uncertainty have a place in our hearts, reminding us that the possibilities are endless once we open ourselves up to the unknown. So, let's take a leap of faith and see where "maybe" takes us! https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3488 https://www.allisoncarmen.com https://www.iheart.com/podcast/105-before-breakfast-30642889/episode/would-you-say-yes-now-112363590 Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

134 - Addicted to Certainty In this episode, I am going to talk about something that I think a lot of us struggle with: addiction to certainty. I wiilll dive into the difference between certainty and agency, and some personal reflections on why taking risks can be so important for growth. To help illustrate this point, I’ll be drawing inspiration from Cheryl Strayed’s incredible book, Wild. We’ll explore how the bias towards certainty can actually hold us back from making positive changes in our lives, and I’ll be challenging you to consider taking some risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone. So get ready to push yourself a little bit and try some new things! I truly believe that by challenging our addiction to certainty, we can unlock new levels of growth and fulfillment. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3484 https://open.spotify.com/episode/513Qm8Kyzfq4fSg0IYGfoj https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-brain-work/200910/hunger-certainty https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-certainty-bias/ Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

133 - Steps to Be Funny In this episode, I take a deep dive into the book Humor, Seriously, and share some amazing insights that will help you become funnier in your personal and professional life. We’ll explore the principles of humor, including the significance of heart and misdirection in-jokes. We’ll also cover the rule of three, analogies, and specifics, and discover the importance of practice and signature stories in developing humor. But we won’t stop there! The author also provides valuable advice on balancing gravity and levity and warns us against offensive humor. So, if you want to level up your humor game, then this is definitely an episode you don’t want to miss! https://www.humorseriously.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJKDipbCzdc&t=7s https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3478 Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

132 - Funny in the Workplace Advice In this episode as we explore the powerful role that humor can play in the workplace! We’ll be diving into the book Humor, Seriously, which shows us how humor can help build connections, relieve stress, and make training more engaging. Whether you’re a natural comedian or just starting out, we’ll discover how humor is like a muscle that can be developed through practice, and how finding your own unique style can help you connect with your colleagues in new and meaningful ways. Plus, we’ll be discussing the importance of maintaining a playful, joy-seeking mindset at work, and how humor can even have health benefits that impact your overall well-being. Don’t miss out on injecting a little levity into your day-to-day routine! https://www.humorseriously.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJKDipbCzdc&t=7s https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3471 Jill’s Links https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps Twitter startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com