1584: Do You Want Comfort or Growth by Steve Pavlina on Personal and Career Development Advice

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

33:58

In this episode, we delve into the concept of being "qualified" in the workplace, examining who gets labeled as such, who doesn't, and the underlying reasons. We explore "competency checking"—the practice of scrutinizing individuals' abilities—and how it disproportionately affects underrepresented groups, often going unnoticed or unchallenged. Our discussion aims to redefine qualifications in a fair, equitable, and actionable manner. Our guest, Shari Dunn , is an accomplished journalist, former attorney, news anchor, CEO, university professor, and sought-after speaker. She has been recognized as Executive of the Year and a Woman of Influence, with her work appearing in Fortune Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Ad Age, and more. Her new book, Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work , unpacks what it truly means to be deserving and capable—and why systemic barriers, not personal deficits, are often the real problem. Her insights challenge the narratives that hold so many of us back and offer practical solutions for building a more equitable future. Together, we can build workplaces and communities that don’t just reflect the world we live in, but the one we want to create. A world where being qualified is about recognizing the talent and potential that’s been overlooked for far too long. It’s not just about getting a seat at the table—it’s about building an entirely new table, one designed with space for all of us. Connect with Our Guest Shari Dunn Website& Book - Qualified: https://thesharidunn.com LI: https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/sharidunn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesharidunn Related Podcast Episodes: How To Build Emotionally Mature Leaders with Dr. Christie Smith | 272 Holding It Together: Women As America's Safety Net with Jessica Calarco | 215 How To Defy Expectations with Dr. Sunita Sah | 271 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…

acum un an 8:49

MP3•Pagina episodului

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 1584:

Steve Pavlina explores why people resist change, how comfort zones create stagnation, and the rewards of embracing discomfort for personal development. Growth requires stepping into uncertainty, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the temporary unease.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2013/05/do-you-want-comfort-or-growth/

Quotes to ponder:

"Comfort is the enemy of growth. If you’re too comfortable, you’re probably stuck."

"When you allow yourself to grow, you automatically invite discomfort into your life. There’s no way around it."

"Growth occurs when you courageously push yourself into new situations where you feel uncertain, awkward, and unprepared."

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

2340 episoade

1584: Do You Want Comfort or Growth by Steve Pavlina on Personal and Career Development Advice

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published acum un an

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MP3•Pagina episodului

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 1584:

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2013/05/do-you-want-comfort-or-growth/

Quotes to ponder:

"Comfort is the enemy of growth. If you’re too comfortable, you’re probably stuck."

"When you allow yourself to grow, you automatically invite discomfort into your life. There’s no way around it."

"Growth occurs when you courageously push yourself into new situations where you feel uncertain, awkward, and unprepared."

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

2340 episoade

Toate episoadele

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1615: How to Turn Journal Ramblings into Viral Articles by Benjamin Hardy on How to Improve Storytelling 10:54

acum 22 hours10:54

10:54

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 1615: Benjamin Hardy reveals how to transform scattered journal entries into compelling, widely shared articles. By refining raw thoughts into structured narratives, aligning with audience needs, and infusing authenticity, writers can craft content that resonates. This guide provides actionable steps to elevate personal reflections into impactful storytelling. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/@benjaminhardy/how-to-turn-journal-ramblings-into-viral-articles-70bcc51a02cf Quotes to ponder: "Your journal is the raw material. It’s the unedited, stream-of-consciousness playground where you think out loud." "Writing is about impact, not perfection. A message that resonates is always more powerful than one that is flawlessly crafted but uninspiring." "Turn your insights into structured narratives, making them digestible and shareable for an audience that craves clarity and value." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1614: [Part 2] The Magic of Idea Math by James Altucher on Creativity as a Skill 9:02

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9:02

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 1614: James Altucher breaks down the concept of "Idea Math," a simple formula for generating and expanding ideas exponentially. By combining, iterating, and testing ideas, creativity becomes a skill anyone can sharpen. Learn how small daily efforts compound into groundbreaking innovation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jamesaltucher.com/blog/the-magic-of-idea-math/ Quotes to ponder: "Creativity is a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets." "One idea plus another idea does not equal two ideas. It equals three or more because the combination creates something new." "The more ideas you come up with, the easier it gets, and the more your idea muscle grows." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1613: [Part 1] The Magic of Idea Math by James Altucher on How to Be More Creative 9:18

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9:18

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 1613: James Altucher breaks down the simple yet powerful math behind generating great ideas. By compounding small thoughts, iterating on them, and strategically combining concepts, creativity can become a daily habit rather than a rare spark. Mastering "idea math" unlocks unlimited opportunities for innovation, problem-solving, and personal growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jamesaltucher.com/blog/the-magic-of-idea-math/ Quotes to ponder: "The more ideas you have, the more ideas you will get." "Bad ideas are the building blocks of good ideas. Quantity leads to quality." "Combine old ideas in new ways, and you get magic." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1612: Top Millionaire Mantras to Structure your Business Around by Chalene Johnson on Entrepreneurship 8:10

acum 4 zile8:10

8:10

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 1612: Chalene Johnson shares powerful millionaire mantras that can help entrepreneurs build a thriving business by focusing on long-term vision, resilience, and smart decision-making. Learn the key principles that top business leaders swear by to create financial freedom and sustainable growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.chalenejohnson.com/business-top-millionaire-mantras-to-structure-your-business-around/ Quotes to ponder: "Your income is a direct reflection of the value you bring to the marketplace." "Scaling your business isn’t about working harder, it’s about working smarter and building systems that run without you." "Success isn’t luck; it’s the result of consistent effort, strategic decisions, and the right mindset." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1611: Work as Play by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on Embracing Curiosity and Creativity 9:31

acum 5 zile9:31

9:31

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 1611: Leo Babauta explores how embracing curiosity, creativity, and a sense of adventure in daily tasks reduces stress and increases motivation. By redefining work as an enjoyable challenge rather than a burden, we can cultivate a more joyful and sustainable approach to our responsibilities. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/work-as-play Quotes to ponder: "Instead of seeing work as a chore, what if we saw it as a game?" "When we approach work as play, we can find curiosity in the task, joy in the process, and openness to whatever arises." "Play is not the opposite of productivity, in fact, it enhances it." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1610: How Do You Know When To Give Up On Your Business? by Steve Chou of My Wife Quit Her Job 8:47

acum 6 zile8:47

8:47

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 1610: Steve Chou explores the fine line between perseverance and sunk cost fallacy, offering practical insights on recognizing when a business is no longer viable. By assessing profitability, passion, and market fit, he helps entrepreneurs make informed decisions about whether to push forward or walk away. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mywifequitherjob.com/when-is-it-time-to-give-up-on-your-business/ Quotes to ponder: "When running a business, persistence is key. But at what point does persistence turn into throwing good money after bad?" "If you are losing your passion, waking up every morning dreading work, and not making money, then it may be time to reevaluate." "The most successful entrepreneurs are not afraid to pivot or shut down a failing venture to pursue a better opportunity." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1609: How To Retire the Day After Tomorrow by Chris Guillebeau on Financial Independence 11:19

acum 7 zile11:19

11:19

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 1609: Chris Guillebeau challenges the traditional concept of retirement, arguing that financial independence and meaningful work can coexist long before old age. By redefining success, designing a flexible lifestyle, and creating income streams that support personal freedom, anyone can retire on their own terms, perhaps even sooner than they think. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisguillebeau.com/how-to-retire-the-day-after-tomorrow/ Quotes to ponder: "Retirement isn’t about ceasing to work; it’s about ceasing to do work you dislike." "Instead of deferring your dreams for decades, why not design a life you don’t need to escape from?" "You don’t have to wait until 65 to retire, you just need to redefine what retirement means to you." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1608: Business Is a Social Game by Steve Pavlina on Entrepreneurship Advice 11:54

acum 8 zile11:54

11:54

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 1608: Steve Pavlina explores how business operates as a social game, where success depends on understanding human connections, value exchange, and trust. By embracing this mindset, you can navigate the business world with greater ease, collaboration, and long-term success. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2014/03/business-is-a-social-game/ Quotes to ponder: "Business is a social game, and the better you learn to play it, the more successful you’ll become." "If you want to succeed in business, you have to learn to connect with people, build trust, and create value for them." "People do business with those they know, like, and trust. If you ignore the social side of business, you’re making the game much harder for yourself." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

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1607: Maintaining a Strong Brand by Kate Erickson of EOFire on Business Strategies 9:00

acum 9 zile9:00

9:00

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 1607: Kate Erickson shares essential strategies for maintaining brand strength, from delivering exceptional products and customer service to fostering relationships and staying consistent. By clearly defining your brand’s "why," making promises you can keep, and listening to your audience, you create a brand that stands out and earns lasting trust. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.eofire.com/maintaining-a-strong-brand/ Quotes to ponder: "Treat every single customer like they’re your only customer and they will not forget it." "Your actions are a direct reflection of your brand." "The marketplace is in full control of your brand." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

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1606: Building your Brand Pyramid by Kate Erickson of EOFire on Business Marketing 8:55

acum 10 zile8:55

8:55

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 1606: Kate Erickson breaks down the essential building blocks of a brand, from establishing brand attributes and crafting a positioning statement to developing a distinct voice and key messages. Whether you're starting from scratch or repositioning your brand, these insights will help you build a brand identity that truly resonates. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.eofire.com/part-1-building-your-brand-pyramid/ Quotes to ponder: "Your brand isn’t what you say it is. Your brand is ultimately defined by what people think and how people feel when they see or hear your company’s name." "Building a brand is making a promise to the public about your business and establishing the core values that you will live and practice in your business every day." "Your voice should add clarity, volume, emotion, these are also some things that will affect how people think and feel about your company." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

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1605: Make It Anything You Want AND Why You Need A Database by Derek Sivers on Self-Improvement 8:12

acum 11 zile8:12

8:12

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 1605: Derek Sivers challenges the notion that relentless self-improvement is always beneficial, arguing that constant growth can become an addiction rather than a means to happiness. He contrasts this with the importance of being present, embracing who you are now instead of endlessly chasing who you could be. By shifting focus from perpetual self-betterment to deep self-acceptance, he suggests a path to genuine fulfillment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://sive.rs/ayw7 & https://sive.rs/dbt Quotes to ponder: "Self-improvement is a slippery slope. It starts as a way to get better, but it can become an endless treadmill of never feeling good enough." "Instead of always trying to be better, try being. Not becoming. Just being." "If you stop improving, who are you? If you stop trying to be someone else, what’s left?" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1604: 8 Ways You Can Turn Your Passion Into Profit by Kalen Bruce of Money Mini Blog 10:25

acum 12 zile10:25

10:25

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 1604: Kalen Bruce explores eight practical strategies to turn what you love into a profitable business, from discovering your niche and leveraging technology to hiring passionate people and prioritizing customer relationships. By nurturing creativity and staying adaptable, you can build a sustainable, rewarding career around your interests. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://moneyminiblog.com/make-money/passion-into-profit/ Quotes to ponder: "Passion, not only capture your attention and arouse your curiosity but also satisfy your need to accomplish things." "Entrepreneurship requires a lot of imagination and grit in creating a brand that is valuable to your customers." "Building a sustainable company involves ongoing reinvention and new development." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1603: The Grandmaster in the Corner Office by Cal Newport on Deep Work and Productivity 12:24

acum 13 zile12:24

12:24

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 1603: Cal Newport explores how the intense, deliberate practice of chess grandmasters offers valuable lessons for professional success. By focusing on deep work and skill refinement rather than innate talent, individuals can achieve mastery in their fields. The key is to engage in challenging, structured practice that pushes cognitive limits, rather than relying on passive experience. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2010/01/06/the-grandmaster-in-the-corner-office-what-the-study-of-chess-experts-teaches-us-about-building-a-remarkable-life/ Quotes to ponder: "Chess masters are not walking encyclopedias; they are pattern experts." "The ability to recognize patterns and recall the best responses is not a gift but a skill painstakingly honed through years of deliberate practice." "If you’re serious about building a remarkable life, start thinking like a chess master: identify the key patterns of success and practice them relentlessly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1602: How We Got Our First 2,000 Users Doing Things That Don't Scale by Ryan Hoover 10:48

acum 14 zile10:48

10:48

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 1602: Early-stage growth isn’t about automation - it’s about hands-on, unscalable efforts that build real connections. By engaging directly with users, personally onboarding them, and fostering a strong community, startups can create lasting momentum. This approach proves that doing things that don’t scale can be the key to scaling later. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/@rrhoover/how-we-got-our-first-2-000-users-doing-things-that-dont-scale-9b3bb45d4b49 Quotes to ponder: "One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that in the early days, you should do things that don’t scale." "Instead of waiting for users to come to us, we went to them." "Hand-holding early adopters helped us understand their needs and build something people truly wanted." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

1
1601: User Investment: Make Your Users Do the Work by Nir Eyal of NirAndFar 11:54

acum 15 zile11:54