Optimal Work Daily

<p>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.</p><p><br /></p><p>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.</p><p><br /></p><p>Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...</p>

1320: Breaking Up with Your Job: Mad Men Demonstrates What Work Relationships and Romantic Relationships Have in Common by Samantha Joel of Luvze

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 1320: Samantha Joel's exploration of the parallels between professional and romantic breakups, showcased through Peggy's dilemma in Mad Men, offers profound insights into our relationships with work. Highlighting the pivotal role of satisfaction, investment, and quality of alternatives in making such life-changing decisions, Joel's article on Luvze.com provides a unique lens to view and evaluate our own professional commitments and possible transitions. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.luvze.com/breaking-up-with-your-job-mad-men-demonstrates-what-work-rel/ Quotes to ponder: "Research on commitment shows that the thought processes that affect these two decisions are really quite similar." "Satisfaction represents whether or not people are getting what they need from a particular relationship." "The three factors that best predict commitment to a romantic partner-satisfaction, investment, and quality of alternatives-also prove to be useful in predicting commitment to a company." Episode references: University of Utah: https://www.utah.edu/ University of Toronto: https://www.utoronto.ca/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-12
09:34

1319: Six Ways to Invest Your Work Time Wisely by Laura Stack of The Productivity Pro on Work-Life Balance

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 1319: Laura Stack, through her insightful article on The Productivity Pro, delves into the irreplaceable nature of time and offers practical strategies for its wise investment. Highlighting the importance of foundation-building, organization, physical improvement, refinements, prioritizing, and learning to let go, Stack provides a roadmap to enhancing productivity and making the most out of every moment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://theproductivitypro.com/blog/2017/10/six-ways-to-invest-your-work-time-wisely/ Quotes to ponder: "When you invest your time, you make a goal and a decision of something that you want to accomplish." "Money is a commodity; time is not." "Getting your priorities straight may be one of the toughest things any of us do, but it’s also one of the most rewarding in terms of time investment." Episode references: Thrive by Arianna Huffington: https://www.amazon.com/Thrive-Redefining-Success-Creating-Well-Being/dp/0804140863 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-11
08:41

1318: Be Focused On Your Outcomes Not Your Tasks by Carl Pullein on Outcome-Focused Efficiency

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 1318: Carl Pullein emphasizes the significant shift from task-oriented productivity to outcome-focused efficiency in "Be Focused On Your Outcomes, Not Your Tasks." Pullein argues that true productivity isn't about ticking off a long list of tasks but rather about engaging in work that propels you towards your important goals and projects. This mindset change is pivotal for long-term success and satisfaction. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.carlpullein.com/blog/be-focused-on-your-outcomes-not-your-tasks/22/8/2018 Quotes to ponder: "Don’t mistake movement for achievement. It’s easy to get faked out by being busy. The question is: Busy doing what?" "Becoming more productive is about doing work that matters so your measurable output increases." "The key to better productivity is to focus on the outcome you want, not the tasks that will get you there." Episode references: Rapid Planning Method, Life Planning with Fulfilling Results – Tony Robbins: https://store.tonyrobbins.com/products/the-time-of-your-life Achieve More in Less Time – The Time of Your Life by Tony Robbins: https://core.tonyrobbins.com/solution-finder/time-of-your-life-163EJ-1765BI.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-10
09:08

1317: How to Tell Your Boss You Are Overwhelmed by Lisa Jeffs on Work Productivity & Workplace Happiness

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 1317: Lisa Jeffs provides empowering advice on navigating workplace overwhelm in her article. Jeffs highlights the importance of open communication with your boss about workload and stress, offering strategies to effectively express feelings of being overwhelmed. She emphasizes the positive impact of seeking support, not just for personal well-being, but also for enhancing overall productivity and workplace happiness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://lisajeffs.com/how-to-tell-your-boss-you-are-overwhelmed/ Quotes to ponder: "Having support in the workplace is a great way to stay on top of your mental load and reduce feelings of overwhelm." "Your boss can’t be solely responsible for managing your workload. And if you don’t share your feelings, they won’t know what factors could be affecting your work." "You deserve to be happy in your workplace. Your boss can be a great resource in addressing concerns or barriers at work that are contributing to your feelings of overwhelm." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-09
09:06

1316: Thriving Together: Why Employee Engagement Is Non-Negotiable for Business Success by Michael Levitt of Breakfast Leadership

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 1316: Discover the transformative power of employee engagement in "Thriving Together" by Michael Levitt. Levitt explores how fostering a workplace culture of involvement and appreciation can lead to increased productivity, reduced burnout, and enhanced team performance, proving that employee engagement is a critical strategy for business success. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/thriving-together-why-employee-engagement-is-non-negotiable-for-business-success Quotes to ponder: "Employee engagement is when a person is fully absorbed by and enthusiastic about their work and so takes positive action to further the organization's reputation and interests." "Employees highly involved in their work are more productive and generate better output because they take personal responsibility for their work and are motivated to do well." "A dedicated employee with goals who feels fulfilled and engaged is less likely to quit." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-08
08:50

1315: What to Do When You Hate Your Job by Sarah Landrum with Dig to Fly on Work-Life Balance & Job Satisfaction

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 1315: Sarah Landrum shares insightful strategies on Dig to Fly for those feeling trapped in unfulfilling jobs, from nurturing side passions to leveraging current roles for future growth. Her firsthand experiences and practical tips illuminate paths toward professional satisfaction and personal development, even within the confines of a less-than-ideal job situation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://digtofly.com/what-to-do-when-you-hate-your-job/ Quotes to ponder: "Hating your job isn’t particularly uncommon. In fact, a Gallup study found that around 70% of workers find themselves 'disengaged' from their job." "Whether you have an hour or several of free time after work, it's recommend to keep your passions intact while working at a job you hate." "Your current job is also useful in this sense, since you can look at your current employer's general philosophy and workplace and identify areas you don't enjoy." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-07
09:36

1314: How One Woman Started a Location-Independent Company Right Out of College by Chris Guillebeau on Entrepreneurship

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 1314: Michelle Rødgaard-Jessen's journey from a varied early career in Denmark to founding a location-independent online marketing company showcases the transformative power of remote work and the entrepreneurial spirit. Her story, shared by Chris Guillebeau, is a testament to the limitless possibilities that come with the digital age, proving that with the right mindset and skills, one can build a fulfilling career that transcends geographical boundaries. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisguillebeau.com/michelle-rodgaard-jessen/ Quotes to ponder: "Building a business is about more than just the idea; it's about making it happen, even if you're starting from scratch." "Don't wait for the perfect moment to launch your idea. The real work and learning come from diving in and getting started." "Embrace the journey of entrepreneurship, knowing that the path may change, but each step offers valuable lessons and opportunities for growth." Episode references: The Art of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Non-Conformity-Rules-Change-Perigee/dp/0399536108 The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau: https://100startup.com/ The Money Tree by Chris Guillebeau: https://moneytreebook.com/ World Domination Summit: https://worlddominationsummit.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-06
09:25

1313: Practical Solutions to Your Biggest Workplace Challenges by Emily Moses of Aubrey Daniels.com on Career Success

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 1313: Emily Moses, alongside insights from AubreyDaniels.com, reveals that the key to overcoming workplace challenges lies in the strategic application of behavioral science. Through targeted solutions and data-driven adjustments, organizations can enhance performance, attract and retain the right talent, and maximize operational efficiency and employee output. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.aubreydaniels.com/blog/practical-solutions-to-your-biggest-workplace-challenges Quotes to ponder: "All business is behavior, so it is in a company’s best interest to understand behavior if they hope to successfully manage and optimize it." "To find the right talent, work backwards and begin with strategy development. This improves the likelihood of success between the new hires and the organization." "Positive reinforcement. People exceed expectations and produce discretionary effort only when working in an organization where the culture is such that employees are regularly recognized and reinforced for key behaviors that lead to results." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-05
09:34

1312: 7 Key Financial Considerations You Need To Make As An Entrepreneur by Courtney Luke of Arrest Your Debt

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 1312: Courtney Luke from Arrest Your Debt.com shares vital financial insights for entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of proper planning and management from the outset. With most businesses facing challenges early on, Luke's advice on setting up company accounts, understanding tax statuses, and crafting a detailed financial plan offers a clear roadmap for success. Her expertise provides entrepreneurs with the tools needed to navigate financial complexities, ensuring a stronger foundation for their ventures. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://arrestyourdebt.com/financial-considerations-as-an-entrepreneur/ Quotes to ponder: "Entrepreneurs are always on the lookout for new opportunities. But before you jump in, you need to consider what you’re going to do with your money and how you will manage it." "It is not easy to be an entrepreneur. You need a lot of startup funds, time, and dedication." Episode references: Market Watch: https://www.marketwatch.com/ Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/?sh=baa68d2254cc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-04
09:16

1311: The Truth About Work Life Balance and How To Get It by Sarah Von Bargen of Yes and Yes on Work Productivity

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 1311: Sarah Von Bargen of Yes and Yes.org demystifies the elusive concept of work-life balance, sharing insightful epiphanies from her personal journey. She challenges the notion that balance is one-size-fits-all, presenting a realistic look at the sacrifices and adjustments required to achieve a more fulfilling blend of professional and personal fulfillment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.yesandyes.org/2016/06/work-life-balance.html Quotes to ponder: "We all have limited amounts of time, money, and energy. What we can’t do is pull more time and energy out of the clear blue sky." "Sometimes we have to work really hard now to have work life balance later." "Sometimes work life balance is overrated. When you love something and it energizes you, allow your life to tip in that direction." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-03
10:37

1310: Want To Be Promoted? Cultivate These 4 Traits by Christine Comaford of Smart Tribes Institute on Career Success

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 1310: Christine Comaford of Smart Tribes Institute delves into the essential brain-based traits that earmark high-potential individuals for success. With insights from neuroscientist Kevin Ochsner, Comaford illuminates how focus, learning, personal insight, and social skills not only define but can also be developed in future leaders, offering a roadmap for personal and professional growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://smarttribesinstitute.com/want-to-be-promoted-cultivate-these-4-traits/ Quotes to ponder: "Focus has two parts: executive, or selective attention, what we choose to pay attention to and zoom in on mentally, and second it’s essential to be able to zoom out and see relationships between things, to understand context." "Learning swiftly and retaining learning is key in today’s speedy workplace." "Personal ability is two-fold. First it means the individual demonstrates knowing themselves, being clear on their motives, their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats." Episode references: Mindset by Carol Dweck: https://www.amazon.com/Mindset-Psychology-Carol-S-Dweck/dp/0345472322 Power Your Tribe by Christine Comaford: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Your-Tribe-Resilient-Turbulent/dp/1260108775 Smart Tribes by Christine Comaford: https://www.amazon.com/SmartTribes-Teams-Become-Brilliant-Together/dp/159184648X Rules for Renegades by Christine Comaford: https://www.amazon.com/Rules-Renegades-Money-Career-Individuality-ebook/dp/B001B681T4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-02
08:36

1309: When You Want a Career and a Slower Pace of Life by Emma Scheib of Simple Slow Lovely on Work-Life Balance

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 1309: Emma Scheib of Simple Slow Lovely.com debunks the myth that having a career is incompatible with slow living. She offers insightful tips for integrating a slower pace of life without sacrificing professional success. Emma's personal journey from a dream job to embracing a fulfilling, slower lifestyle underscores the possibility of achieving both career goals and personal well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://simpleslowlovely.com/when-you-want-a-career-and-a-slower-pace-of-life/ Quotes to ponder: "Pursuing both a career and slow living doesn’t need to be mutually exclusive." "When you say YES to your career, you automatically say NO to something else." "We live in an age where we CAN pursue a career and make money on our own terms." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

05-01
08:01

1308: Building Forecasts from the Bottom Up by Dr. Jeff Cornwall on Thoughtful Business Growth

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 1308: Dr. Jeff Cornwall provides a comprehensive guide to thoughtful business growth through his "bottom-up" forecasting approach, emphasizing the importance of planning and financial discipline for entrepreneurs. By sharing the journey of his daughter and son-in-law's business, Harpeth Painting, Cornwall illustrates how to determine the necessary size and financial targets of a business to support personal and family goals, advocating for a balance between entrepreneurial pursuits and personal life. Quotes to ponder: "The single biggest cause of business failure is success." "Rather than growing the business simply because you can, know how big you need it to be to meet your short and long-term needs." "Life is short. There is more to life than running a business." Episode references: “Discovery-Driven Planning" by Rita McGrath and Ian McMillan in HBR, 1995: https://hbr.org/1995/07/discovery-driven-planning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04-30
11:23

1307: [Part 2] 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 1307: Kristin Wong, in collaboration with Get Rich Slowly.org, presents practical strategies for individuals feeling stuck in unsatisfactory jobs. Wong explores options like transitioning to a new role, making adjustments within your current job, the power of open communication, and the transformative effect of changing one's perspective. Her insights offer hope and actionable steps for those seeking fulfillment and balance in their professional lives. 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: "Easing in might mean finding part-time work somewhere else until you can let go of your job completely." "Can your feeling stuck be remedied by working from home? Would you be happier with a different schedule?" "I used to work in retail - I chose, this time, to change my way of thinking, because I liked the work I was doing, and I had to think about providing for my young family at the time." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04-29
08:30

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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04-28
09:37

1305: The Deep Uncertainty of Meaningful Work by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on The Fear of Judgment

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 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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04-27
08:06

1304: Five Productivity Hacks to Make More Money Per Hour by Stephen Warley of Life Skills That Matter

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 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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04-26
12:26

1303: 5 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Career by Lisa Harrison of Mad Money Monster on Work-Life Balance

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 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/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04-25
09:27

1302: How to Stop Weighing Yourself Down with Emotional Junk Food by Laura Coe with Tiny Buddha

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 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04-24
10:28

1301: The Cold Shower Challenge by Nick Loper of Side Hustle Nation on Remarkable Personal & Professional Growth

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 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04-23
08:49

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