Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3534:Homo sapiens outlasted other human species not just because of bigger brains, but due to our unique ability for complex planning, a skill that also explains why we procrastinate. Cal Newport argues that procrastination isn’t a character flaw but an evolutionary response to weak or vague plans. Instead of forcing ourselves to push through, we should see procrastination as a cue to refine our approach, ensuring our strategies, whether for studying, work, or personal goals, are truly effective.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://calnewport.com/the-procrastinating-caveman-what-human-evolution-teaches-us-about-why-we-put-off-work-and-how-to-stop/Quotes to ponder:“The most obvious answer [to the question of Homo sapiens’ survival] is that we had bigger brains. But it turns out that what matters is not overall brain size but the areas where the brain is larger - one of the crucial elements of Homo sapiens’ adaptations is - complex planning.”“What I’m arguing is that the complex planning component of your brain evaluates this plan as it has evolved to do and then rejects it as not sound.”“Procrastination is not your enemy. It is instead a constructive source of criticism, a voice from our paleolithic past telling us that although it likes our goals, we need to put a little bit more thought into how we’re going to get there.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3533:Feeling overwhelmed by negativity at work or in life? Shifting to a gratitude mindset can transform your well-being, boost resilience, and even strengthen relationships. Dr. Jenny Brockis explains how expressing gratitude, whether through journaling, acknowledging others, or simply saying "thank you,” activates brain regions linked to happiness and generosity, creating a ripple effect of positivity in your life and those around you.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drjennybrockis.com/2017/8/7/want-feel-better-work-life-try-saying-two-words/Quotes to ponder:"Gratitude rewards generosity and maintains the cycle of healthy social behaviour.""When we feel down and grey we forget that the sky is still blue above those grey clouds, even though we can’t see it.""Saying thanks gets easier with practice so a great way to start is to look for the opportunity."Episode references:Switch Off: How to Find Calm In a Noisy World - https://www.amazon.com/Switch-Off-Find-Noisy-World/dp/073033628X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3532:A life well-lived isn’t about achieving every childhood dream, it’s about evolving into who we’re meant to be. Dr. Kelly Flanagan reflects on how his plans have changed over the decades, revealing that failure is often grace in disguise. By embracing who we truly are rather than who we thought we should be, we create a life that’s both authentic and fulfilling.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drkellyflanagan.com/the-grace-of-failure-or-how-to-avoid-a-midlife-crisis/Quotes to ponder:"It’s easy to plan a Hollywood life, but it takes some growing up and a lot of self-acceptance to gladly choose a life that is a little more ordinary.""Growing up isn’t about getting what we want; it’s about giving in to the best parts of who we are.""A true self is a constantly emerging self. A good life is an always evolving life." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Explore the art of minimalism and learn that it's not just about having less, but making space for what truly matters. Discover practical tips for decluttering your life while boosting confidence and motivation. Embrace small, achievable steps that lead to significant changes. Building a supportive community is key, as the journey towards simplicity should be enjoyable. Remember, it's a marathon, not a sprint—start today and find joy in the process of letting go.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3530:Curiosity is the key to personal growth, creativity, and success. James Altucher explores how curiosity fuels innovation, deepens relationships, and opens unexpected opportunities. By embracing a curious mindset, you can break free from routine thinking and unlock new possibilities in every area of life.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://archive.jamesaltucher.com/blog/curiosity-one-thing-really-need/Quotes to ponder:"Curiosity leads to ideas. Ideas lead to doing something. Doing something leads to failure, which leads to resilience, which leads to success.""When you are curious, you are never bored. You are never stuck. You are never out of options.""Curiosity is about uncovering possibilities and seeing connections where others see none." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3529:Listening can be one of the most powerful ways to support a friend struggling with their mental health. Sara Stanizai offers practical advice on how to be there for them without overstepping, focusing on empathy, asking rather than assuming, and making thoughtful, specific suggestions when appropriate. By taking on the role of a supportive co-pilot rather than a rescuer, you can help your loved ones navigate their struggles while empowering them to take the next steps on their own terms.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.prospecttherapy.com/blog/2018/7/3/how-to-support-your-friends-mental-healthQuotes to ponder:"Literally, just be quiet. That’s the first thing I learned in therapy school! (Just kidding. Sort of.) Keep your mouth shut and hear them out.""Unsolicited advice (except in the form of super cool blog posts) isn’t helpful. If anything, it just adds to their feelings of overwhelm.""We ultimately want to set troubled loved ones up to make strides on their own, and removing ourselves from the action, yet not detaching emotionally, is a vital part of that." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3528:A self-centered person shifts every conversation to themselves, often without realizing it, while selfishness involves consistently prioritizing personal desires over others' needs. Dr. Margaret Rutherford clarifies how self-awareness stands apart, it’s about acknowledging personal wants and needs while valuing those of others equally. By recognizing these distinctions, you can break free from harmful conditioning, embrace vulnerability, and start prioritizing yourself without guilt.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drmargaretrutherford.com/whats-the-difference-between-being-selfish-and-being-self-aware/Quotes to ponder:"You keep in mind your own needs or wants, and treat them with as much consideration as you treat the wants and needs of others.""You’re giving yourself the message that you’re important, a message that maybe you never or rarely received.""It may feel awkward at first to do things like this for yourself, but it’s so worth it. Because you’re worth it." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3527:Running a marathon is more than a physical challenge, it’s a masterclass in life’s most valuable lessons. From the power of perseverance to the importance of pacing yourself, Joshua Becker shares 12 insights from his first marathon that apply far beyond the racecourse. Whether tackling personal goals, overcoming obstacles, or staying committed to long-term success, these lessons offer inspiration for any journey.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/12-lessons-for-life-from-my-first-marathon/Quotes to ponder:"Running a marathon is an accomplishment reached only by traveling a long road of discipline.""In life, just like in a marathon, some miles are easier than others but every mile must be run.""The most important step in any journey is the next one." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3526:Brian Tracy shares powerful strategies for overcoming adversity and turning challenges into opportunities for growth. By developing resilience, embracing a positive mindset, and taking decisive action, setbacks can become stepping stones to success. Learn how to stay focused, adaptable, and motivated even in the toughest times.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.briantracy.com/blog/general/hard-times-overcoming-adversity/Quotes to ponder:"Your ability to confront, deal with, and overcome your problems is the key to happiness and success.""The true measure of character is not what happens to you, but how you respond to what happens to you.""Successful people look for the opportunity in every setback." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3525:Curiosity, creativity, resilience, patience, and self-reliance, these five core skills shape a fulfilling, purpose-driven life. Angel Chernoff explains how embracing these qualities helps us adapt, grow, and take control of our own paths. When we cultivate these skills, we unlock our potential and navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.marcandangel.com/2013/05/02/5-core-skills-your-life-depends-on/Quotes to ponder:"Curiosity, after all, is the foundation of lifelong growth. It allows us to retain a beginner’s mind even as our wisdom expands.""Ultimately, the two hardest tests on the road to personal growth are the patience to wait for what you want and the courage not to be disappointed when it doesn’t arrive as soon as you had expected.""Self-reliance is the most important of all life skills, because without it you can’t practice any other life skill consistently." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices