When life feels overwhelming, busyness often becomes our go-to escape. But what if staying constantly busy isn’t a solution, but a way to avoid dealing with what’s really bothering us? This week, we’re exploring why we cling to busyness and how it might be holding us back from true growth.Whether you’re burned out, anxious, or unsure how to face your feelings, this episode sheds light on how to break free from the cycle of overworking. Here are some of the things I talk about: Why busyness isn’t a badge of honor but often a form of emotional avoidance. What “revenge productivity” is and why it keeps you stuck in a draining cycle. How staying busy can lead to burnout, emotional numbness, or even health issues. The surprising power of sitting with discomfort and how it builds mental strength. Practical tips to help you slow down and reconnect with yourself so you can break free from the cycle. Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Connect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ Calm — Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystrongerBranch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you stuck thinking, "This is just who I am?" Think again. Science shows your personality might not be as fixed as you think.Olga Khazan knows this firsthand. As a journalist and author, she embarked on a journey to change her personality. And now she's discovering what she learned. Some of the things we discuss are: The five core personality traits and how they shape your life Why science says personality isn’t as fixed as you think The habits and exercises that can help you become more outgoing, less stressed, or more ambitious How Olga’s year-long experiment radically changed her reactions, relationships, and outlook on life Insightful ways to step outside your comfort zone and grow into your best self Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger.Links & ResourcesOlgaKhazan.comInstagram — @OlganatorMe, But BetterPersonality TestConnect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpodCalm — Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystronger!Branch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When life throws you curveballs, it’s not just one problem to tackle. Often, challenges arrive like dominos, and it can feel impossible to move forward. That's why it's important to build resilience.Whether you're dealing with personal loss, financial struggles, or emotional roadblocks, there are science-backed strategies that can help you handle adversity. Some of the things I share are: Why resilience isn’t just about “bouncing back” but taking deliberate steps forward. The difference between mental strength and resilience (and why both matter). How to reframe negative thoughts to discover opportunities within obstacles. The power of setting realistic, micro-goals to create steady progress. Why self-compassion is essential for recovering from tough times. Actionable tips to cultivate resilience using practical and research-based strategies. Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & ResourcesEpisode 141 - Managing Burnout and Exhaustion with Self-Compassion with Dr. Kristin NeffConnect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ Calm — Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystrongerBranch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the secret to building mental strength lies in magic? Today’s guest, New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer, reveals insights on resilience, empathy, and personal transformation using the metaphor of magic tricks. Brad is a celebrated novelist, children’s book author, and storyteller whose viral University of Michigan commencement speech has inspired millions.Some of the things we talk about are: The 4 magic tricks that will help you grow stronger and change your life The power of empathy and how kindness can change everything How to harness failure as fuel for growth What it means to live authentically and why it's important to reflect on your best self The ongoing journey of transformation The one thing all heroes have in common Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger.Links & ResourcesBradMeltzer.comBrad's 2024 Commencement AddressFollow Brad on Instagram — @BradMeltzerConnect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpodCalm — Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystronger!Branch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you catch yourself scrolling through social media and suddenly feeling like you're not doing enough? Whether it’s someone’s dream vacation, the perfect family photo, or an impressive career milestone, comparison culture can quietly erode your confidence and mental strength. But it doesn’t have to.In today's episode I talk about how constant comparison impacts your mental health, why social media amplifies this issue, and how you can break free so you can reclaim your self-worth. Some of the things I talk about are: The hidden ways comparison culture sabotages your mental strength. Why social media intensifies feelings of inadequacy and envy. The “social comparison theory” and why too much comparison makes you miserable. How to write your own definition of success (and why it’s a game-changer). The telltale signs you're stuck in the comparison trap. Why looking at others as "opinion holders" can free you from envy. Science-backed strategies to stop comparing and start thriving. Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger.Connect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpodCalm - Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystronger!Branch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. John Eliot, an esteemed advisor for professional sports teams and co-author of "How to Get Along With Anyone," dives into the transformative power of conflict. He discusses how recognizing your conflict style can strengthen relationships and promote personal growth. Listeners learn why avoiding conflict can be detrimental and how to tailor communication for smoother interactions. With practical strategies, Eliot encourages embracing conflict as an opportunity for improvement, revealing how it can ultimately lead to stronger bonds with others.

Personal growth isn't about a monumental overnight transformation. Instead, it's a series of small consistent actions that shape us over time.Some of the things I share are: The psychology and science behind the compound effect How micro wins can boost confidence and lead to significant success The science behind tiny habits The biggest mistake that impedes progress The simple changes you can make to your routine today to set off a chain reaction that results in big wins Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger.Connect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpodCalm - Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystronger!Branch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel awkward in video meetings? Do your text messages get misunderstood? Do you worry about the tone you convey in your emails? Virtual communication can be tricky — unless you know the strategies to master it. Professor Andrew Brodsky says virtual communication can help us grow closer and get more done once we understand the science behind it. Some of the things we talk about are: Why your texts and emails might be sending the wrong message (and how to fix them) What people really think of you when your message includes a typo Should you include emojis in messages? How to make a killer first impression during video meetings Small talk secrets that build trust in digital interactions Choosing the right communication mode—text, emails, calls, or video—for every situation. Eye-opening insights on body language and background cues in Zoom calls. Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger.Links & ResourcesABrodsky.comConnect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpodCalm - Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystronger!Branch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are social media influencers shaping how we view mental health—for better or worse? The growing trend of "Instagram therapy" is distorting what it truly means to heal and grow. From oversimplified “self-love” advice to outright inaccuracies, it's important to learn the truth about what’s helpful, what’s harmful, and how to develop real mental strength in today's world.Some of the things I share are: The rise of trendy "therapy speak" on social media—and why terms like "gaslighting" and "boundary setting" are often misused or misunderstood. How misinformation and oversimplifications in mental health content can do more harm than good. The dangers of self-diagnosis based on TikTok or Instagram quizzes Why the constant focus on “healing” can create unrealistic expectations and unnecessary pressure. The cultural obsession with protecting one’s peace and the downside of doing so. Red flags to watch out for when consuming mental health content online. Actionable tips for curating a healthier feed, including following evidence-based sources and engaging in offline practices for mental health. Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger.Connect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpodCalm - Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystronger!Branch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you crave a richer, more adventurous life? In today's episode, we’re exploring the concept of a “psychologically rich life”—one filled with novel experiences, deeper connections, and a sense of wonder. It turns out that happiness and meaning aren’t the only ingredients for a fulfilling life. Psychological richness can add depth and vibrancy to your everyday routine.I'm talking to Dr. Shigehiro Oishi, a leading happiness researcher, psychologist, and celebrated author of Life in Three Dimensions. With a career spanning groundbreaking research on human well-being, he’s here to share what it means to live a genuinely adventurous and reflective life—and how to start making minor changes to experience more prosperous, more fulfilling days. Some of the things we discuss are: What makes a “psychologically rich life” (and why it’s different from happiness or meaning). Simple ways to add adventure and spontaneous joy to your daily routine. Why routines and rigid habits might be holding you back. A powerful mindset shift for navigating failures and setbacks. How storytelling can transform even ordinary experiences into extraordinary ones. Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger.Links & ResourcesLife in Three DimensionsConnect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorSponsorsOneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpodCalm — Get 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/STRONGERZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today!AirDoctor — Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today!Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystronger!Branch Basics — Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STRONGER15 at https://branchbasics.com/STRONGER15 #branchbasicspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices