LH158 — Embracing Change and Finding Your Nxt
Cindy Carrillo, author of Finding Your Nxt, discusses the importance of embracing change and finding your next phase in life. She shares quotes that inspire her and emphasizes the need to be intentional about setting goals and making changes. Cindy also addresses common blockers to change, such as fear of the unknown, fear of failure, and the willingness to settle. She encourages people to break free from financial constraints and take small steps towards living a life they truly want. Cindy's book and coaching programs provide guidance and support in finding your next.
Quotes from this episode:
William Pollard — “Without change, there’s no innovation, creativity, or incentive for improvement”
Stephen R Covey — “Anything less than a conscious commitment to the important is an unconscious commitment to the unimportant”
Key Takeaways:
Embrace change and be open to the possibilities of what's next in your life.
Set intentional goals and make decisions to move towards your desired future.
Identify and overcome blockers to change, such as fear of the unknown, fear of failure, and the willingness to settle.
Take small steps towards living a life you truly want, even if you have financial constraints.
Cindy's book, Finding Your Nxt, and her coaching programs provide guidance and support in navigating life transitions.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH157— Love in Practice: Creating Safe Spaces For Deeper Connections
In this powerful conclusion to our three-part series with Topaz Adizes, we explore his conversation-transforming new book, The 12 Questions for Love. Drawing from over 1,200 filmed conversations for {THE AND} project, Topaz distills years of insights into a practical guide for cultivating meaningful, well-constructed dialogues. This book serves as a blueprint for creating safe spaces that encourage vulnerability, authenticity, and deeper connections.
In this episode, Topaz highlights the critical role of reflection and the art of asking the right questions to elicit profound responses. He shares his vision for how these practices can positively impact relationships and inspire greater connection in our lives. If you’ve ever wondered how to build stronger relationships or elevate the quality of your conversations, this discussion is filled with actionable wisdom and inspiration.
Quotes from this episode:
“The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.” ― Carl Gustav Jung
Key Takeaways:
A guide to meaningful conversations: The 12 Questions for Love provides tools for creating safe spaces that foster vulnerability and exploration.
The power of reflection: Thoughtful reflection and asking the right questions are essential for building meaningful connections.
Quality relationships start with quality conversations: Deep and impactful dialogues enhance the overall quality of life.
Safe spaces and boundaries matter: Establishing a safe environment with clear boundaries is crucial for successful conversations.
Love is an act and a practice: It goes beyond emotion and requires intentional effort and care.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH156 — Reconnecting in a Polarized World: Better Questions for Fostering Our Shared Humanity
In this continuation of last week’s conversation, Karel and Paige welcome back Topaz Adizes to the Life Habits Podcast. Together, they delve into themes of shared humanity, the profound impact of social media on communication, and the vital role of empathy in meaningful conversations. They explore strategies for navigating vulnerability in relationships, crafting thought-provoking questions, and creating safe spaces that foster understanding and connection. Discover the importance of active listening and the transformative potential of thoughtful dialogue. This conversation sheds light on bridging divides and fostering connection, especially in today’s polarized society.
Quotes from this episode:
“When you accept love, you are also accepting pain.” — Avery to Kennedy {THE AND}
“Something about you reminds me of being human, the most beautiful parts of being human.” — Gabrielle to Luna {THE AND}
Key Takeaways:
Humanity thrives in connection: It’s found in the connections between us, not solely within us.
Empowering questions shape conversations: Asking thoughtful questions leads to more constructive dialogues.
Vulnerability deepens relationships: It’s an essential component for creating meaningful connections.
Social media’s impact: While it connects us, it often amplifies division rather than fostering understanding.
Empathy requires discomfort: Practicing empathy involves listening to opposing views and sitting in discomfort.
Safe spaces are crucial: Open and honest dialogue depends on creating spaces where people feel safe to share.
Questions as gifts: Frame questions without an agenda to foster genuine curiosity and connection.
We are not our ideas: Recognizing this allows our ideas to evolve and grow over time.
Understanding perspectives: Effective communication requires acknowledging and respecting different viewpoints.
Transformative power of questions: Changing the questions we ask can lead to profound and meaningful conversations.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH155 — From Questions to Answers: Enhancing Human Connection
In this episode, Karel and Paige interview Emmy award-winning writer, director, and experience design architect, Topaz Adizes, founder of The Skin Deep. This is the first part of a two-part series where they explore Topaz’s journey, the powerful role of questions in fostering vulnerable and authentic conversations, and the creation of meaningful human connections. Topaz shares insights on the importance of constructing thoughtful questions and creating safe spaces to encourage openness, drawing from his work with The Skin Deep and the “And” Project. He emphasizes that true connection comes from asking questions that invite self-reflection and empathy, offering listeners valuable perspectives on nurturing deeper relationships.
Quotes from this episode:
“The amateur or the student looks for answers, but the master searches for questions.”
“The path to growth is lit by your discomfort and fears. So pursue them wherever they appear.”
Key Takeaways:
The Power of Questions: Thoughtful, well-constructed questions shape conversations and foster genuine connection, often revealing deeper insights than answers alone.
Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability: Setting intentions rather than agendas creates an environment where people feel safe to open up, allowing authentic conversations to unfold.
Intimacy and Connection: The heart yearns for intimacy, which can be achieved by overcoming personal and societal obstacles that inhibit open expression and connection.
Distinguishing Safety and Comfort: Growth often lies in discomfort. Safe spaces allow for uncomfortable conversations, which can lead to stronger relationships.
Intentional Language: Adding phrases like “do you think” or “do you feel” in questions fosters less defensiveness and invites open, subjective responses.
Self-Reflection Through Questions: Shifting from seeking answers to exploring better questions can guide personal growth, purpose, and fulfillment.
Embracing Empathy Through Storytelling: Conversations that bridge differences enable empathy and understanding, allowing people to connect with shared humanity, even across unfamiliar experiences.
Shaping Questions to Empower: Asking questions that prompt empowering answers can transform how we see challenges and give us a sense of agency.
Human Connection in the Digital Age: Despite technological advancements, meaningful human interaction remains essential; platforms like “The Skin Deep” aim to bring humanity into digital spaces.
Learning from Relationships: Observing and participating in deep conversations with loved ones can help us understand ourselves and our connections, reinforcing resilience and mutual growth.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH154 — Future Proofing Your Career
In this episode, Karel builds on the previous episodes which focused on dealing with job loss, being effective at getting a job, and designing and marking yourself. He now focuses on "future-proofing your career." Karel shares practical strategies for career development, including using strategic foresighting to anticipate industry trends, creating an "aspirational resume" to set goals, and performing "premortems" to avoid potential pitfalls. He also introduces the concept of "career workouts," encouraging listeners to approach career advancement as they would physical fitness—with regular, structured efforts, tracking progress through a career journal, and conducting "career checkups" with mentors. Drawing on quotes from notable figures like Wayne Gretzky and Mahatma Gandhi, Karel underscores the importance of proactive, goal-oriented habits in building a resilient, fulfilling career.
Quotes from this episode:
Wayne Gretzky - "I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been."
Warren Bennis - "Keep their eyes on the horizon, not just on the bottom line. Companies that do that are the most successful."
Malcolm Gladwell - "Practice isn't the thing you do once you're good. It's the thing you do that makes you good."
Lewis Hamilton - "Skill is only developed by hours and hours of work."
Michael Gerber - "The difference between great people and everyone else is that great people create their lives actively while everyone else is created by their lives, passively waiting to see where life takes them next."
Mahatma Gandhi - "The future depends on what you do today."
John Dewey - "We do not learn from experience. We learn from reflecting on experience."
Key Takeaways:
Future-proofing your career requires proactive strategies.
Strategic foresighting helps identify trends that may impact your career.
An aspirational resume can guide your career goals.
Visualizing future achievements can motivate personal growth.
Career workouts are essential for skill development.
Scheduling dedicated time for career advancement is crucial.
Keeping a career journal helps track progress and feedback.
Regular checkups with mentors can provide valuable insights.
Feedback is essential for continuous improvement.
Adopting fitness principles can enhance career development.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH153 — Designing and Marketing the Product YOU
In this episode, Karel continues the focus on those who are looking to further improve themselves to get a new or better job, or a new partner, or just to make themselves the best version of themselves that they can be. He starts be asking “What do companies do when they want to improve their products and services?” They use design and design methods. And “What do they do to sell those products and services?” They use marketing and marketing methods. Karel then reprises edited versions of two of the most popular episodes of the entire podcast series focussed on using design and marketing methods to improve the product, you!
Quotes from this episode:
Jim Rohn — “If you don't design your own life plan, chances are you'll fall into someone else's plan. And guess what they have planned for you?”
Jim Rohn — “Happiness is not something you postpone for the future, it is something that you design for the present.”
Les Brown — “We must look for ways to be an active force in our own lives. We must take charge of our own destinies, design a life of substance, and truly begin to live our dreams.”
Steve Jobs — “Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you really want to become. Everything else is secondary.”
Napoleon Hill — “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, the mind can achieve.”
Tony Robbins — “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, the mind can achieve.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson — “Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you.”
Maxwell Maltz — “Your most important sale in life is to sell yourself to yourself.”
Sir Thomas Overbury — “Put your best foot forward.”
Key Takeaways:
Use design and marketing methods to improve yourself.
Assess your current state and set strategic objectives.
Collect and prioritize new requirements for personal growth.
Decide on key features to incorporate into your life.
Write a specification for your personal development plan.
Build prototypes of new habits and seek feedback.
Iterate on your personal development based on feedback.
Celebrate your achievements and plan for future improvements.
Impression management is crucial for personal branding.
Your online persona is as important as your in-person presence.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH152 — Gender Equality: We All Need to do Better
In this episode, Karel discusses the current state of gender equality, reflecting on the progress made and, importantly, the challenges that remain. He emphasizes the importance of individual actions in promoting gender equality and shares practical advice for everyone. The episode also includes a edited reprised previous episode on gender equality, reviewing skills and habits that you can adopt individually to make a difference.
Quotes from this episode:
Nicholas Christoph — “In the 19th century, the central moral challenge was slavery. In the 20th century, it was the battle against totalitarianism.”
Gloria Steinem — “We've begun to raise daughters more like sons, but few have the courage to raise our sons more like our daughters.”
Randall Munroe — “The role of gender in society is the most complicated thing I've ever spent a lot of time learning about. And I've spent a lot of time learning about quantum mechanics.”
Ivy Compton Burnett — “There is more difference within the sexes than between them.”
Key Takeaways:
Gender equality is still a distant goal, taking 131 years to close the gap.
Women earn 20% less than men on average, with even larger gaps for women of color.
The Nordic countries lead in gender equality, while others regress.
Women are underrepresented in leadership roles, holding only 8-10% of CEO positions.
Personal actions can drive change, such as voting and promoting women in the workplace.
Interruptions in mixed-gender conversations often disadvantage women.
Women should retain their names after marriage to maintain identity.
Developing assertiveness is crucial for women in professional settings.
Men should actively listen and avoid interrupting women in conversations.
Negotiation skills are essential for both genders to achieve equality.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH151 — Dealing with Job Loss
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In this episode, Karel and Google UX Director Javier Bargas discuss the challenges and strategies associated with job loss and the job search process. They emphasize the importance of self-care, understanding the current job market dynamics, and building effective job search routines. Javier shares insights on preparing application materials, networking, and navigating the interview process, while also addressing the emotional impact of job loss and the need for resilience. The discussion concludes with encouragement to leverage volunteer work for experience and to maintain a positive outlook during challenging times.
Quotes from this episode:
“I’m interested” - People leaving “I’m interested” on LinkedIn posts that are not a job post as a symbol of looking frantically for a job without taking a step back and planning how you spend your energy.
“You Can’t Pour From An Empty Cup”, an ancient wisdom explaining that in order for us as humans to effectively take care of others, we must first take care of ourselves.
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” is Gandalf’s reply to Frodo saying “I wish it need not have happened in my time", pointing to the problem of fixating on things that we can’t control.
Key Takeaways:
Job loss can significantly impact one's identity and emotional well-being.
Self-care is crucial during the job search process.
Understanding the current job market dynamics is essential for job seekers.
Building healthy routines can help manage the stress of job searching.
Networking is a key strategy for finding job leads.
Tailoring your CV for each application increases your chances of success.
Practice and preparation are vital for performing well in interviews.
Rejections are common; resilience is necessary to keep moving forward.
Volunteering can provide valuable experience and fill gaps in employment.
Maintaining a positive outlook can help navigate the challenges of job searching.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH150 — 7 Rules of Self-Reliance
In this episode, we dive into the powerful principles from Seven Rules of Self-Reliance, the brand-new book by renowned author and communications expert, Maha Abouelenein. Fresh off the book’s release, Maha shares actionable insights on how self-reliance can be the key to unlocking personal and professional success. Discover how to stay focused, build a resilient mindset, and navigate obstacles with confidence. Maha also explores the critical role of reputation and relationship-building, offering practical advice on authenticity, patience, and knowing when to ask for help. Whether you’re looking to transform your career or strengthen your personal growth, Maha’s wisdom will inspire you to craft a life-changing narrative. Don’t miss this conversation—it’s packed with strategies to help you believe in yourself and take charge of your future.
Quotes from this episode:
"Stay low, keep moving"
“Your brand is what people say about you when you’re not in the room.” — Jeff Bezos
"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." — Mahatma Gandhi
Key Takeaways:
Invest in Yourself: Self-reliance starts with building your own skills and being resourceful.
Overcome Challenges by Creating Value: Focus on helping others, even when faced with obstacles.
Build Authentic Relationships: Genuine networking leads to deeper, more meaningful connections.
Patience Fuels Success: Personal growth and long-term success require perseverance.
Reputation Matters: How you treat others is the foundation of your personal and professional reputation.
Stay Adaptable Through Learning: Continuous learning strengthens resilience and adaptability.
Leverage Self-Awareness: Know where you need help and where you excel to grow effectively.
Create Your Own Opportunities: Don’t wait—actively pursue and create the opportunities you seek.
Small Steps Matter: Every action toward your goals brings you closer to success.
Your Story Shapes Your Reality: The most important narrative is the one you believe about yourself.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH149 — Feeding Your Soul with Purpose and Meaning
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Karel devotes this episode to a topic that has been central to his life—feeding your soul with purpose and meaning. He makes the case for exploring a more fulfilling life going beyond simply feeding your wallet by also feeding your soul. After charactering the situation many people are in of being stressed and burned out, Karel outlines his own approach to always balancing his life with outside interests that have purpose and meaning to him. He then outlines three approaches to determining what would feed your soul and how to realize it.
Quotes from this episode:
Daniela Nikolova—"Feed your soul by feeding the souls of others with love, kindness, and compassion."
Winston Churchil—"It's not enough to have lived. We should be determined to live for something."
Germany Kent—"Stand for something. Make your life mean something."
Roy Bennett—“If you have a strong purpose in life, you don't have to be pushed. Your passion will drive you there.”
Bishop Jakes—“If you can’t figure out your purpose, figure out your passion. For your passion will lead you right into your purpose.”
Washington Irving—“Great minds have purposes, others have wishes.”
Barbara Mikulski—"Each of us can make a difference. Together we make change."
Matthew Kelly—"Whatever change you desire for the world, create that change in your own life. You are here for a purpose. Seek it out. Hunt it down. The greatest misery is to be purposeless."
Theodore Roosevelt—"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."
Key Takeaways:
Introspect while doing the deathbed/funeral test to determine what you personally would value to be known for
Evaluate your current job and career to see if it could align with your values
Try to reframe your current role for purpose and meaning
Explore volunteer opportunities
If no volunteer opportunities exist, create your own
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH148 — The Influencers in my Life
In this episode, Karel reflects on the two people who have had the greatest influence in his life. These aren't your typical current social media influencers. They're instead people who provided him insights, lessons, and habits for everyday life.
The first is the late Stephen R. Covey and second is Gerritdina Leida Vredenburg, Karel’s late mother. He recorded a tribute episode after each of these influencers in his life passed away. Covey published a book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" in 1989. Karel read it that same year and it changed his life. In fact, that book also inspired the creation of this podcast series 16 1/2 years ago. Karel’s late mother was and still is the most influential person in his life sharing her wisdom, creativity, and iconoclastic perspective on life.
Karel reprises edited versions of the two previous episodes that detailed the key lessons each of these influencers taught him and we hope that you too will find them inspirational.
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Quotes from this episode:
All from Stephen R Covey
“We are free to choose our actions but we are not free to choose the consequences of these actions”
“Most people define greatness through wealth and popularity and position in the corner office by what I call everyday greatness comes from character and contribution”
“Our ultimate freedom is the right and power to decide how anybody or anything outside ourselves will affect us”
“The is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule but to schedule your priorities”
“Admission of ignorance is often the first step in our education”
“Our character is basically a composite of our habits”
Key Takeaways:
Influence shapes our habits and character.
Self-mastery is the foundation of personal effectiveness.
Interdependence enhances teamwork and collaboration.
Self-renewal is essential for long-term success.
Pursue passions over monetary gain for fulfillment.
Humility is key to maintaining relationships and respect.
Authenticity fosters trust and integrity in interactions.
Reflecting on life lessons can guide personal growth.
Teamwork often leads to greater success than individual efforts.
Sharing lessons with loved ones is invaluable.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH147 — Honing Your Leadership Skills
In this episode, Karel speaks with Joe Byerly, a recently retired 20 year senior leader in the U.S. Army, the author of My Green Notebook, and the founder of the From the Green Notebook blog and podcast. Joe described the role of the green notebook in the army and the ingredients that he considers key to his successful career as a leader. He shares his insights on honing leadership skills, drawing from his extensive experience in the military and his journey into civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of journaling for self-discovery, reading for leadership growth, and the need for emotional intelligence in decision-making. Joe discusses the challenges of leadership, the transition from military to civilian roles, and the significance of building a supportive community. He provides practical advice for aspiring leaders, encouraging them to reflect on their experiences and prioritize personal growth.
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Quotes from this episode:
"How do I know what I think till I see what I say?" — Ian Forster
"Writing is weird medicine. I sit down not knowing what I believe and I get up knowing." — Steven Pressfield
"You don't need more time. You simply need to decide." — Seth Godin
Key Takeaways:
Journaling helps clarify thoughts and emotions.
Leadership is a continuous journey of self-discovery.
Toxic leadership experiences can fuel positive leadership practices.
Building a support network is crucial for leaders.
Reading widely enhances leadership skills and perspectives.
Effective leaders model behavior for their teams.
Transitioning from a defined role can be challenging.
Emotional intelligence is key in leadership decision-making.
Creating a community fosters shared learning and growth.
Practical reflection can lead to better leadership outcomes.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH146 — Finding Your Superpower
In this episode, Karel and Judy Wilkins-Smith discuss how to uncover and maximize your superpowers. They explore the concept of superpowers as the unique skills and qualities that individuals possess and how they can be developed and amplified. They also delve into the importance of understanding and acknowledging the emotional inheritance from our ancestors and how it shapes our behaviors and beliefs. Judy shares practical steps for listeners to identify their superpowers and work towards their goals.
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Quotes from this episode:
"It's kind of fun to do the impossible." — Walt Disney
"Dream, dare, commit, do” — Walt Disney
“If you have a dream that you believe in, if you dare to believe, and make a wish, that dream really can come true” — Walt Disney
Key Takeaways:
Everyone has superpowers, unique skills and qualities that can be developed and amplified.
Understanding and acknowledging our emotional inheritance from our ancestors is crucial in shaping our behaviors and beliefs.
To identify your superpowers, listen to what others say about you, pay attention to how you feel when using those skills, and look for opportunities to maximize and expand them.
Commitment, attention, and elevated emotions are key to developing and amplifying your superpowers.
Constellations and systemic work can help uncover and transform patterns inherited from our family systems.
Invest in your goal with elevated emotions and commit to it for a month to activate your superhero.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH145 — Life and Career Lessons
In this episode, Karel shares his career and life lessons after retiring from a successful 36-year career at IBM and co-founding the Habits for a Better World nonprofit. Before leaving IBM, Karel went on a global nine design studio tour during which he met with staff one-on-one and in groups and he also reflected on his career and shared his life and career lessons. The staff and others on LinkedIn who heard about the presentation encouraged him to share his reflection and insights on the podcast. This episode was the result. Enjoy!
Quotes from this episode:
Stephen R Covey — "Begin With the End in Mind" and he explains further that "you should start with a clear understanding of your destination. You need to know where you are going in order to better understand where you are now so that the steps you take are always in the right direction."
Ralph Waldo Emerson — “Do not follow where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Or my version of that, is others often say, "somebody should" while I say, "why not me".
Steve Jobs — "The only way to do great work is to love what you do".
Key Takeaways:
Understand the business you work for and how it creates value
Find purpose in your role and focus on making a positive impact
Pay attention to how you show up on video calls and use appropriate equipment
Practice authentic listening and truly understand others' perspectives
Champion diversity and inclusion to create more innovative and representative teams
Be a lifelong learner and share your knowledge with others
Future-proof your career by staying aware of trends and continuously improving
Feed your soul by pursuing passions outside of work and taking breaks to unplug
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH144 — The Humor Habit
Paige is taking a much needed break for health reasons. We wish her a restful and restorative break. Paige did find and schedule our amazing guest for today’s episode, Paul Osincup, a speaker and positive workplace strategist, and the author of “The Humor Habit”.
Karel interviews Paul about his book 'The Humor Habit.' They discuss the power of humor in the workplace and in life, and how humor can be learned and developed as a habit. They also explore the health benefits of humor, such as reducing stress and increasing happiness. Paul shares practical tips and exercises for incorporating humor into daily life, including immersing oneself in humor, practicing a 'yes and' mentality, and finding levity in difficult situations.
Quotes from this episode:
"Life is far too important to be taken seriously." — Oscar Wilde
"To truly laugh, you must be able to take your pain and play with it." — Charlie Chaplin
"Don't live your life as an actor in a drama just to reach the end to find out you were the director and it could have been a comedy." — Paul Osincup
Key Takeaways:
Humor is a habit that can be learned and developed.
Humor has numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and increasing happiness.
Immersing oneself in humor and seeking out funny content can help cultivate a sense of humor.
Practicing a 'yes and' mentality can help build resilience and find humor in difficult situations.
Finding levity in everyday life and incorporating humor into the workplace can improve well-being and foster connection.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH143 — Dealing with Divisiveness & Polarization
In this episode, Karel tackles the pervasive problems of divisiveness and polarization. World events—like wars and elections—and discussing important issues have a tendency to lead to these challenges. So much so, that they generate disharmony in families and tension among friends. Some will say, “someone should do something about that”. Karel says, “why not start with ourselves”. There are two sets of habits that Karel thinks are helpful for countering divisiveness and polarization, checking your biases and becoming an authentic listener. He reprises two previous episodes that address these issues.
Quotes from this episode:
"We need a great deal of humility and compassion to recognize and acknowledge our own biases and to understand the ways in which our views might actually be contributing to the problem rather than advancing the solution." — Michelle Alexander
"Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply." — Stephen R. Covey
"Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable." — David Augsburger
Key Takeaways:
World events and discussion about important issues can lead to divisiveness and polarization, but we can do something about that ourselves by countering them by checking our biases and becoming authentic listeners.
The power of the mind is evident in phenomena like the placebo effect and reconstructed memories, highlighting the need to be aware of our biases.
Authentic listening involves paying attention, avoiding distractions, and deferring judgment, and it can greatly improve communication and understanding.
By practicing checking biases and authentic listening, we can reduce divisiveness and polarization in our interactions and relationships.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH142 — Personal Connections in a Digital Age
In this episode, Amy Weinland Daughters shares her transformative journey of writing handwritten letters to all 580 of her Facebook friends, revealing the profound impact it had on her relationships and understanding of connection. She delves into the importance of being untroubled by failure and untouched by triumph, urging us to listen to our instincts, even when they defy logic. Amy also introduces her simple yet powerful framework for deeply connecting with others, which involves sitting in a quiet space, reflecting on the person, and writing from the heart. Whether through handwritten letters, digital messages, or other personal gestures, Amy encourages us all to reach out and foster meaningful connections.
Quotes from this episode:
“I would love to go through life being untroubled by failure and untouched by triumph.” — Carol Burnett
“There will be a few times in your life when all your instincts will tell you to do something, something that defies logic, upsets your plans, and may seem crazy to others. When that happens, you do it. Listen to your instincts and ignore everything else. Ignore logic, ignore the odds, ignore the complications, and just go for it.” — Judith McNaught
Key Takeaways:
Embrace Resilience: Be untroubled by failure and untouched by triumph, continuing to pursue your goals despite the ups and downs.
Trust Your Instincts: Listen to your instincts, even when they go against logic, odds, or complications. Sometimes, what seems crazy to others can lead to profound outcomes.
Focus on Connection: Connect with others on a deeper level by focusing on what unites you rather than what sets you apart.
Express Your Thoughts: Write letters or notes to express support, gratitude, or concern, reminding yourself that small gestures can make a big difference in the world.
Reach Out Personally: Take the time to reach out to people individually, whether through handwritten letters, digital messages, or other means, and offer your support to strengthen your relationships.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH141 — Ignite Your Secret Superpower: Adapt to Change
In this episode, Karel and Paige sit down with Dan Ram, an event MC, TEDx speaker, and executive coach, to discuss the topic of adaptability. Dan shares his personal journey of growing up as the son of an Indian ambassador, constantly moving around the world and having to adapt to change. He outlines three stages for improving adaptability: letting go of the past, engaging with the present, and positioning oneself for the future. Dan provides advice on how to pursue new hobbies or passions and offers insights on habits that lead to personal growth and success. He encourages listeners to say yes to themselves, start now and start simple, and approach others with love and kindness.
Quotes from this episode:
“Start now, start simple.” — Dan Ram
“You cannot project what you don't possess.” — Dan Ram
Key Takeaways:
Letting Go of the Past: Involves grieving what was and expressing gratitude for the experiences and opportunities that shaped us.
Engage with the Present: Means being curious, learning, and dreaming. It's about exploring new options, trying out different hobbies or passions, and keeping things simple.
Position Yourself for the Future: Requires saying yes to opportunities, starting now, and starting simple. It's about taking small steps towards a goal and being open to new possibilities.
Saying Yes to Yourself: Give yourself permission to pursue new opportunities and start now, taking small steps towards your goals.
Starting Simple: Begin with small, manageable steps towards your goals and be open to new possibilities.
Approaching with Kindness: Approach others with love, trust, compassion, and kindness to build meaningful connections.
Embracing Curiosity: Embrace curiosity, learning, and dreaming to discover your passion and purpose, and engage with the present by exploring new options and hobbies.
Having Faith: Have faith, ask questions, and be open to different perspectives to foster adaptability and a fulfilling life.
Celebrating the Journey: Celebrate the seed, the first step, and the journey rather than just focusing on the end result, recognizing the importance of each stage in your progress.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH140 — Thought Habits to Overcome Overworking
In this episode, Karel and Paige continue their conversation with certified Habit Finder coach, author, and CEO Amy Kemp. They dive deep into Amy’s strategies for overcoming overworking through setting boundaries and shifting thought habits to achieve success and wealth. She emphasizes the need to let go of limiting beliefs about money and to embrace the idea that money is a renewable resource. Amy also highlights the challenges women face in achieving success, particularly the burden of unpaid labor and societal pressure to do it all. She shares success stories from her coaching business, showcasing the transformative power of changing thought habits. Amy underscores the slow and lifelong nature of personal growth.
Quote from this episode:
“Money is a renewable resource. It comes and goes. It ebbs and flows. It's meant to move. When we're cheap about spending it or weird about receiving it, we block its natural course. We put ourselves in a place of lack instead of abundance. And our energy becomes, riches interrupt us. — Jen Sincero
Key Takeaways:
Money as a Renewable Resource: Embrace the mindset that money is meant to move and should not be clung to for a sense of security.
Setting Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining effective boundaries in personal and professional life is crucial for healthy interactions and avoiding overworking.
Rethinking Hard Work: Success and wealth do not necessarily require working more hours. It’s essential to shift thought habits and adopt smarter, more efficient strategies.
Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: Challenge the belief that more work equals more success by focusing on leveraging natural abilities and valuing one’s contributions appropriately.
Unpaid Labor and Gender Roles: Acknowledge the disproportionate amount of unpaid labor women handle and the societal pressures that perpetuate this imbalance.
Slow and Incremental Change: Sustainable change in thought habits is a slow, ongoing process requiring commitment and humility. There are no quick fixes for lasting transformation.
Empowerment Through Lifelong Learning: Continually invest in personal growth through reading, listening to podcasts, and engaging in meaningful conversations to change thinking and seize opportunities.
Practical Steps for Boundary Setting: Implement small, manageable boundaries in daily routines to protect personal time and reduce overwork.
Encouragement for Women: Women should feel empowered to share responsibilities, seek support, and recognize their worth in both professional and personal spheres.
Accessible Resources: Utilize available resources like Amy’s book, “I See You,” and the Habit Finder assessment to begin the journey towards better thought habits and achieving goals without overworking.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.
LH139 — Power of Thought Habits & Natural Genius
In this episode, Karel and Paige sit down with Amy Kemp, a certified habit finder coach and author of the book ‘I See You!’ They discuss the importance of guilt-free play, the power of imperfect progress, and the impact of deeply rooted thought habits on our success. Amy shares her journey of becoming a habit finder coach and CEO, and explains the concept of natural genius and how to recognize and leverage our unique talents. They also explore the challenges of determining the value of our natural genius and overcoming self-esteem issues related to money.
Quotes from this episode:
“A firm commitment to guilt-free play will recharge your batteries, creating renewed motivation, creativity and energy for all the other areas of your life. Knowing that work will not deprive you of enjoying the good things of life, you can more easily tackle a large task without the fear of having it rule your life. Knowing that work on a large task will be interrupted by commitments to friends, to exercise, and to free time, you can approach the task with less fear of being overwhelmed.” — From ‘The Now Habit’ by Neil Fiore
“Imperfect progress is better than perfect procrastination.” — Unknown
Key Takeaways:
Guilt-Free Play: Prioritizing guilt-free play can recharge your batteries, enhancing creativity, motivation, and energy for other areas of life.
Imperfect Progress: Embrace the concept that imperfect progress is better than perfect procrastination. Striving for perfection can be a trap that hinders progress and leads to unhealthy outcomes.
Journey to Habit Finder Coaching: Amy’s transition from a high school teacher to a successful entrepreneur and Habit Finder coach highlights the importance of recognizing when it’s time for a change and following your passion.
Power of Thought Habits: Deeply rooted thought habits, especially those operating at the subconscious level, can limit our success. Becoming aware of these habits is crucial for making positive changes.
Fantasy and Catastrophe Thinking: Our brains often flip between idealized futures and worst-case scenarios, which can rob us of being present. Recognizing and addressing these thought patterns can improve our mental well-being.
Role of Laughter and Conversation: Laughter and talking out loud can disrupt negative thought patterns and bring subconscious thoughts to the surface, helping to reframe and challenge them.
Identifying Natural Genius: Natural genius often shows up early in life and feels easy to us. It’s important to recognize and value these talents, which can be harnessed to serve others and create value.
Overcoming Undervaluation: Women, in particular, are often taught to undervalue themselves. Overcoming this requires acknowledging and embracing one’s natural genius and gradually increasing self-worth and value.
Relationship with Money: Our relationship with money often reflects our self-esteem and self-worth. Recognizing and addressing limiting beliefs about money is key to achieving financial success.
Please note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.