Optimal Work Daily
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Description
Optimal Work Daily, presented by the experienced narrator Dan, is a podcast that focuses on enhancing productivity, creativity, and work-life balance. Dan provides clear and engaging narration of thought-provoking articles from leading experts in the fields of productivity, career development, and organizational psychology.
Optimal Work Daily is an ideal resource for professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to maximize their potential in the workplace. The podcast's diverse range of topics, from time management strategies to fostering creativity, provides valuable insights for enhancing performance and achieving career satisfaction, making it a must-listen as you strive to excel in your professional life.
Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...
1307 Episodes
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![1306: [Part 1] 4 Signs You Hate Your Job & 5 Things You Can Do About It by Kristin Wong with Get Rich Slowly](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/3faa0e10-fc15-11ee-835d-2758ad23d3b1/image/3b2d157d620dddad9b397ee826604fa6.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "1306: [Part 1] 4 Signs You Hate Your Job & 5 Things You Can Do About It by Kristin Wong with Get Rich Slowly")
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 1306:
Kristin Wong provides a candid exploration of the discontentment many feel in their jobs and offers practical steps for change. Wong draws on personal anecdotes and studies to highlight four key indicators of job dissatisfaction and begins to navigate the complex journey of finding fulfillment beyond the constraints of an unsatisfying role.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getrichslowly.org/4-signs-youre-over-your-job-5-things-you-can-do-about-it/
Quotes to ponder:
"You know you have to let go, but letting go is scary. You could land in a better spot, or you could meet your ruin."
"If getting fired doesn't sound too bad, it's probably time to let go of that cliff."
"It's a terrible feeling: the desire to move forward when your current situation is holding you back."
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Episode 1305:
Leo Babauta delves into the paralyzing effect of deep uncertainty experienced by those striving to undertake meaningful work. Highlighting a narrative of a man overwhelmed by the fear of judgment and the vast unknown of starting a nonprofit, Babauta illustrates how this uncertainty can derail even the most passionate intentions. Embracing this uncertainty, much like embracing the unpredictability of love, is portrayed as essential to transforming fear into a driving force for meaningful action.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/deep/
Quotes to ponder:
"The key is to open up to the deep uncertainty of the meaningful work. Recognize it as a necessary component of that work, not something to be feared or hated or avoided, but embraced and loved."
"We put off doing this work because of deep uncertainty."
"We can train in this. With love."
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Episode 1304:
Stephen Warley's insights on LifeSkillsThatMatter.com unlock the secret to earning more by valuing your time above all. Discover how to calculate your true hourly rate, not just based on office hours, and explore five productivity hacks that can significantly increase your earnings without the need for a raise or promotion. It's time to work smarter, not harder, and make every hour count.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeskillsthatmatter.com/blog/make-more-money-per-hour
Quotes to ponder:
"Your time is one of your most valuable assets."
"To calculate your true hourly rate, you need to also include: Your average commuting time, The time you spend working at home, and Even the time you think about work outside the office."
"The real magic of increasing your hourly rate is by creating a source of passive income."
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Episode 1303:
Lisa Harrison of Mad Money Monster.com offers invaluable advice for those standing at the crossroads of their career paths. She delves into the crucial aspects of aligning career choices with personal interests, educational commitments, work-life balance, career development opportunities, and the job market's reality. Her guidance is aimed at helping individuals make informed decisions that lead to both professional fulfillment and personal well-being.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://madmoneymonster.com/2022/08/04/5-things-to-consider-before-choosing-a-career/
Quotes to ponder:
"Some people believe that you should consider money when choosing a career. While this may be true to an extent, you don’t want to ignore your interests."
"Statistics also indicate that employees who work more than 55 hours weekly are at risk of developing stroke and coronary heart disease."
"It would be unpleasant to invest your time, money, and hopes into a career that’s in low demand."
Episode references:
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): https://www.bls.gov/
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Episode 1302:
Laura Coe's enlightening piece for Tiny Buddha delves into the concept of emotional junk food, revealing how negative thought patterns, much like unhealthy eating habits, can weigh us down. By sharing her personal journey towards recognizing and replacing her toxic thoughts with positive affirmations, Coe offers a powerful roadmap to emotional well-being and fulfillment.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://tinybuddha.com/blog/stop-weighing-emotional-junk-food/
Quotes to ponder:
"Worry, stress, anxiety, guilt, shame, and fear are the potato chips, processed foods, and chocolate cake of our emotional life."
"A thought - a single sentence - stood in the way of the life I desired."
"With these simple sentences, I changed my career and found the passion in my life that I really craved."
Episode references:
Emotional Obesity: A Philosophical Guide to Lighten Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Emotional-Obesity-Philosophical-Guide-Lighten/dp/1619613077
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Episode 1301:
Nick Loper shares his transformative experience with the Cold Shower Challenge, illustrating how embracing discomfort led to remarkable personal and professional growth. By turning the cold water on, Loper unlocked a new level of hustle, productivity, and success, challenging readers to try it for themselves and reap the unexpected benefits.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.sidehustlenation.com/cold-showers/
Quotes to ponder:
"But call it a coincidence - things have been going pretty well since I turned on that cold water!"
"Yes, it’s cold. Yes, it’s uncomfortable. But it’s also only 5 minutes and you’re going to live through it."
"Take a deep breath and get ‘r done. The first 30 seconds are the worst."
Episode references:
The 4-Hour Body: https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Body-Uncommon-Incredible-Superhuman/dp/030746363X
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Episode 1300:
Laura Gariepy of Women Who Money.com enlightens us on the transformative power of a work sabbatical, emphasizing how an extended break can rejuvenate your passion and productivity in your career. Exploring the multifaceted considerations of taking a sabbatical, from personal growth to financial planning, Gariepy offers a comprehensive guide to assessing if this life-changing move aligns with your career and personal life.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/work-sabbatical/
Quotes to ponder:
"A work sabbatical could be the best thing for you, your career, and possibly your current company."
"It’s essential to keep your purpose at the forefront of your mind throughout the sabbatical process."
"By thinking through this process, you have opened your mind to the idea that there are other ways of integrating all of the important bits in your life."
Episode references:
Harvard Business Review on work sabbaticals: https://hbr.org/2023/02/research-the-transformative-power-of-sabbaticals
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) study on sabbatical offerings: https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/benefits-compensation/sabbaticals-solution-to-employee-burnout
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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 1299:
Discover how poker isn't just a game of chance but a strategic tool that can sharpen your business acumen. Sabado Domingo with LenPenzo.com delves into the intricate ways poker teaches entrepreneurs about risk, decision-making, and the psychology of negotiation. This insightful comparison not only highlights the importance of strategic thinking in both arenas but also underscores the skills necessary to navigate the unpredictable waters of business decisions for impactful outcomes.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://lenpenzo.com/blog/id30022-how-poker-helps-entrepreneurs-make-better-business-decisions.html
Quotes to ponder:
"Poker is a game that requires taking risks at the best possible time. The same is true with your business decisions."
"Whether you’re playing poker online or off, you have to carefully think about what’s happened to you at the table in the past."
"Your ability to identify patterns means you have everything you need to anticipate their next move before it happens and act upon any potential weakness."
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Episode 1298:
Kara Goldin's article showcases the empowering journey of going against the grain, illustrating how challenging conventional wisdom and industry experts can lead to groundbreaking innovation and success. Through personal anecdotes and examples from her career, particularly with her company Hint, Goldin encourages embracing risk, fostering creativity, and persisting in the face of doubt to achieve meaningful change and personal growth.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://karagoldin.com/going-against-the-grain-and-why-its-often-necessary/
Quotes to ponder:
"To succeed you have to be willing to stand up for what you believe even if it means you go against conventional wisdom."
"Going against the grain builds grit and determination. Even in quote-unquote “failure.”"
"Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time."
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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 1297:
Lisa Merlo-Booth's article counters the passive approach traditionally advised for dealing with mean-spirited behavior in the workplace. By advocating for self-respect and assertiveness, Merlo-Booth empowers readers to confront such negativity directly, ensuring they don't silently endorse unacceptable behavior. Her guidance is a call to action for anyone facing demeaning attitudes at work, promoting a healthier, more equitable office environment.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://lisamerlobooth.com/mean-girls-at-the-office-inherent-in-your-silence-is-acceptance-dont-silence/
Quotes to ponder:
"If you say nothing, then inherent in your silence is acceptance."
"Know that exclusion, eye-rolling, contempt, shaming and mean-spirited comments are not okay."
"Silence will increase the behavior, not decrease it. Stay grounded and have your back."
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Episode 1296:
Margo Aaron demystifies SEO, transforming it from a daunting task into a manageable one, even for the non-tech savvy. Through her insightful conversation with Michael Tesalona, she outlines the simplicity behind SEO's perceived complexity, focusing on foundational elements and actionable steps that can significantly boost your website's visibility without delving deep into technicalities.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.thatseemsimportant.com/business/5-things-you-need-to-know-about-seo/
Quotes to ponder:
"No one really knows what Google’s search engine ranking criteria are, but after years of following trends and getting results for clients, we have a pretty good idea of what definitely matters."
"If you get those basics down, you’ve satisfied the geek quota and the rest of the time you need to focus on backlinks."
"Since Google doesn’t publicly state Page Rank, the SEO community is split on what the ‘gold standard’ is."
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Episode 1295:
Brian Tracy's article on negotiation skills dispels the myth that successful negotiators are aggressive and tough-minded. Instead, Tracy highlights the characteristics of effective negotiators as pleasant, patient, and well-prepared individuals focusing on win-win solutions. Emphasizing the importance of asking the right questions, being patient, and thorough preparation, Tracy provides a blueprint for enhancing negotiation skills to not only secure better deals but also boost self-confidence.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.briantracy.com/blog/sales-success/the-top-3-negotiation-skills-of-persuasive-people-self-confidence/
Quotes to ponder:
"Good negotiators seem to ask a lot of questions and are very concerned about understanding exactly what it is you are trying to achieve from the negotiation."
"Preparation accounts for 90% of negotiating success. The more and better prepared you are prior to a negotiation, the more likely it is that the outcome of the negotiation will be satisfactory for all parties involved."
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Episode 1294:
Discover the art of integrating meditation into your workday with Josh Anderson's insights from DIY Active.com. Anderson sheds light on the ancient practice's modern-day benefits, offering simple, actionable strategies to reduce stress, enhance focus, and boost overall wellness, even in the busiest of work environments.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://diyactive.com/simple-ways-to-meditate-at-work/
Quotes to ponder:
"Meditation is an excellent stress reducer and a way to lower blood pressure, boost immune systems, and even stay in shape when combined with another form of less strenuous activity, such as yoga."
"Schedule at least 15 minutes into your daily routine for meditation routines. This is all you’ll need to feel the positive effects on the body and the mind."
"Stress can be a cause of numerous health problems - both physical and mental - so it is important to reduce stress whenever and wherever you can in your life."
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Episode 1293:
Laura Stack, through her insightful piece on The Productivity Pro.com, delves into the intrinsic value of teamwork in business and personal ventures, emphasizing that even the most autonomous leaders achieve peak productivity through collaboration. Highlighting historical geniuses and modern team successes, Stack offers a compelling argument for the indispensable role of teamwork in surpassing individual limitations and reaching collective heights.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://theproductivitypro.com/blog/2013/11/whistling-up-an-orchestra-the-value-of-teamwork-in-the-workplace/
Quotes to ponder:
"No one can whistle a symphony. It takes an orchestra to play it."
"Teams may prove greater than the sum of their parts, in such a way that the results can be out of proportion to the number people involved."
Episode references:
Collection of works by Halford Edward Luccock: https://onlinebooks.library.upenn.edu/webbin/book/lookupname?key=Luccock%2C%20Halford%20Edward%2C%201885-1960
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Episode 1292:
In Carl Pullein's thought-provoking article, he challenges the conventional quest for work-life balance by suggesting it stems from not loving what you do. Pullein argues that true success and fulfillment come from immersing oneself in work driven by passion and commitment, as exemplified by highly successful figures like Tony Robbins and Elon Musk. He encourages finding joy in one's vocation, blurring the lines between work and pleasure, and ultimately living a life fueled by passion.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.carlpullein.com/blog/why-worrying-about-work-life-balance-is-not-a-good-sign/22/11/2017
Quotes to ponder:
"If you worry about work-life balance you are not going to achieve the same levels of success as people like Tony Robbins, Elon Musk, Gary Vaynerchuk or Sheryl Sandberg."
"When you have a clear idea of what you enjoy doing, when your work is something you love doing, there is no dividing line between work and pleasure."
"The secret to a happy and fulfilled life is not really a secret. It is as Steve Jobs said in his famous Stanford University Commencement address in 2005; finding what you love."
Episode references:
Steve Jobs Stanford University Commencement address 2005: https://news.stanford.edu/2005/06/12/youve-got-find-love-jobs-says/
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Episode 1291:
Discover how to transform overwhelm into productivity with insights from The NeuroGym Team at MyNeuroGym.com. Learn to prioritize, break tasks into manageable pieces, and embrace self-care for a balanced and successful life. This article offers practical, neuroscience-backed strategies to reclaim your time and peace of mind.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://blog.myneurogym.com/stop-feeling-overwhelmed-with-work
Quotes to ponder:
"When we think a stressor is too great for us to manage, we feel overwhelmed."
"Self-care is not a selfish practice. It’s actually a selfless act because when you feel calm, nourished, and relaxed, you not only feel better, you’re more inclined to be kind and help others."
Episode references:
JJ Virgin’s website: https://jjvirgin.com/
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Episode 1290:
Michael Levitt of Breakfast Leadership.com outlines essential strategies for building a positive, supportive workplace culture in his insightful article. Levitt emphasizes the importance of clear communication, collaboration, mutual respect, acknowledgment, and work-life balance as fundamental to fostering productive relationships and enhancing employee satisfaction. These key elements not only improve the overall work environment but also contribute to the long-term success of any organization.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/5-ways-to-cultivate-a-positive-supportive-culture-in-your-organization
Quotes to ponder:
"Developing a robust corporate culture and fostering pleasant working relationships have emerged as top concerns for companies worldwide."
"The ability to communicate clearly and effectively is critical to the success of any organization's culture."
"Employees are less likely to experience burnout and are more likely to continue to be devoted and engaged in their professions when they can strike a balance between the demands of their personal lives and the obligations of their jobs."
Episode references:
The Breakfast Leadership Network: https://www.breakfastleadership.com
Thinkers360: https://www.thinkers360.com
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Information: https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral
Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) Information: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/therapy-types/neuro-linguistic-programming-therapy
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![1289: [Part 2] When Your Career Sucks, You Can Fix It by Karl Staib of Dig to Fly on Leveraging Job Opportunities to Build Skills](https://s3.castbox.fm/b9/5e/9f/245848ef9e4ffed6f471857c110181211d_scaled_v1_400.jpg "1289: [Part 2] When Your Career Sucks, You Can Fix It by Karl Staib of Dig to Fly on Leveraging Job Opportunities to Build Skills")
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 1289:
Karl Staib of Dig to Fly.com delves into the transformative journey of finding a career that not only meets one's needs but fuels passion and creativity in "When Your Career Sucks, You Can Fix It - Part 2". Staib shares his personal pathway to launching Work Happy Now, encapsulating the essence of leveraging current job opportunities to build skills, pursue passions, and ultimately, achieve success. His narrative underscores the importance of self-initiative and the power of small steps towards a fulfilling career.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://digtofly.com/when-your-career-sucks-you-can-fix-it/
Quotes to ponder:
"Building your skills at your current job can make it more enjoyable. You have to create opportunities."
"Being good at a job takes pride. You have to ask yourself why you either lost or never had pride in your job."
"Look at your list of emotional needs and find the theme that emerges. The easiest way to release your fear is to imagine yourself doing what you love."
Episode references:
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808
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![1288: [Part 1] When Your Career Sucks, You Can Fix It by Karl Staib of Dig to Fly on The Subtle Impact of Failures on our Confidence](https://s3.castbox.fm/1d/15/86/fa7ea3ea1d4f63f364e452836091358fca_scaled_v1_400.jpg "1288: [Part 1] When Your Career Sucks, You Can Fix It by Karl Staib of Dig to Fly on The Subtle Impact of Failures on our Confidence")
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 1288:
Karl Staib of Dig to Fly.com delves into the often overlooked emotional undercurrents of career dissatisfaction in "When Your Career Sucks, You Can Fix It." He discusses the subtle impact of failures on our confidence and the pivotal role of confronting fears to forge a fulfilling career path. Through personal anecdotes and actionable advice, Staib encourages a reflective and proactive approach to transforming work life into a source of happiness and empowerment.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://digtofly.com/when-your-career-sucks-you-can-fix-it/
Quotes to ponder:
"Fear has dictated many of my actions."
"Fear is based in assumptions. We assume that our boss doesn’t care about our hard work, so what’s the point of trying."
"It’s all about being honest with who you are and what you want. If you need to wake up and get excited about what you do to earn a living then it’s time to make a plan."
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Episode 1287:
In "As An Entrepreneur You Can Expect a Lot of Things," Mike Smerklo shares the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the inevitable challenges and the critical moments of self-doubt that come with pursuing one's dreams. Through personal anecdotes and a simple yet profound "three whys" exercise, Smerklo offers a strategy to reconnect with the initial passion and vision that set entrepreneurs on their path, advocating for resilience and the pursuit of purpose despite the hurdles.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.mikesmerklo.com/as-an-entrepreneur-you-can-expect-a-lot-of-things/
Quotes to ponder:
"If you are going to be an entrepreneur you can expect so many of them you will lose count (and that is what wine and therapy are for as it turns out)"
"Why the heck am I doing this? Why? Why? Why? This one question has destroyed more entrepreneurial dreams than just about all other events combined."
"The beauty of the exercise is its simplicity. However, it is only as effective as you challenge yourself to go deep on the 'why.'"
Episode references:
Mr. Monkey and Me: A Real Survival Guide for Entrepreneurs by Mike Smerklo: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/mr-monkey-and-me-mike-smerklo/1137502227
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This piece was awesome!
great episode. keep it coming please.