038: Happiness First, Then Everything Else by Steve Pavlina of StevePavlina.com

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 3527: Running a marathon is more than a physical challenge, it’s a masterclass in life’s most valuable lessons. From the power of perseverance to the importance of pacing yourself, Joshua Becker shares 12 insights from his first marathon that apply far beyond the racecourse. Whether tackling personal goals, overcoming obstacles, or staying committed to long-term success, these lessons offer inspiration for any journey. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/12-lessons-for-life-from-my-first-marathon/ Quotes to ponder: "Running a marathon is an accomplishment reached only by traveling a long road of discipline." "In life, just like in a marathon, some miles are easier than others but every mile must be run." "The most important step in any journey is the next one." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

14 Maalis 10min

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 3526: Brian Tracy shares powerful strategies for overcoming adversity and turning challenges into opportunities for growth. By developing resilience, embracing a positive mindset, and taking decisive action, setbacks can become stepping stones to success. Learn how to stay focused, adaptable, and motivated even in the toughest times. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.briantracy.com/blog/general/hard-times-overcoming-adversity/ Quotes to ponder: "Your ability to confront, deal with, and overcome your problems is the key to happiness and success." "The true measure of character is not what happens to you, but how you respond to what happens to you." "Successful people look for the opportunity in every setback." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13 Maalis 10min

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 3525: Curiosity, creativity, resilience, patience, and self-reliance, these five core skills shape a fulfilling, purpose-driven life. Angel Chernoff explains how embracing these qualities helps us adapt, grow, and take control of our own paths. When we cultivate these skills, we unlock our potential and navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.marcandangel.com/2013/05/02/5-core-skills-your-life-depends-on/ Quotes to ponder: "Curiosity, after all, is the foundation of lifelong growth. It allows us to retain a beginner’s mind even as our wisdom expands." "Ultimately, the two hardest tests on the road to personal growth are the patience to wait for what you want and the courage not to be disappointed when it doesn’t arrive as soon as you had expected." "Self-reliance is the most important of all life skills, because without it you can’t practice any other life skill consistently." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12 Maalis 10min

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 3524: Melissa Camara Wilkins explores the hidden burdens of perfectionism and how the relentless pursuit of flawlessness can lead to stress, burnout, and dissatisfaction. By embracing imperfection and focusing on progress over perfection, we can cultivate a more fulfilling and balanced life. Letting go of unrealistic standards allows for greater creativity, self-compassion, and genuine personal growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://nosidebar.com/perfection/ Quotes to ponder: "Perfectionism is a relentless taskmaster, always demanding more but never offering satisfaction." "When we stop chasing perfection, we open ourselves to joy, creativity, and meaningful progress." "True fulfillment comes not from flawlessness, but from embracing the beautifully imperfect journey of life." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11 Maalis 9min

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 3523: Asking for help and embracing minimalism transformed Jay Harrington’s life when he found himself overwhelmed by work and personal obligations. By subtracting instead of adding, decluttering possessions, streamlining his businesses, and prioritizing space over busyness, he created room for what truly mattered. His journey is a reminder that taking control of your life starts with courageous choices and that sometimes, less really is more. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/first-moments-blog/wake-up-to-the-life-that-lives-inside Quotes to ponder: "We all have two lives. The second one starts when we realize that we only have one." "It’s okay if today you feel like a bystander in your own life, with someone else setting the agenda. What’s not okay is if you never retake control of your circumstances." "So be courageous, because no one is going to grant you permission to live boldly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10 Maalis 9min

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 3522: Recognizing the disconnect between our external success and internal fulfillment is crucial for real change. Jay Harrington explores how we often ignore pivotal moments, our own “inciting incidents” that could redefine our lives. By facing discomfort and reevaluating our path, we can begin aligning our outside world with the passions and purpose that live within us. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/first-moments-blog/wake-up-to-the-life-that-lives-inside Quotes to ponder: "It’s said that art imitates life, but real life is, of course, far different. And messier." "Because we fight so hard to maintain our Outside shell, we miss the moments, the inciting incidents, in our lives that call us to change." "I achieved success (at least my notion of it at the time), but hated the means by which I acquired it." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9 Maalis 10min

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 3521: Spending money out of boredom is a common trap, fueled by the instant gratification of shopping and the endless distractions of social media. Charlie Brown argues that the key to breaking this cycle lies in embracing profound boredom, a deeper state of reflection that can lead to meaningful life changes. By stepping outside, engaging with the world, and allowing boredom to transform into creativity and purpose, we can escape the lure of mindless spending and build a more fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://themakingofamillionaire.com/you-spend-money-because-youre-bored-26d8fa1be4af Quotes to ponder: "We are very, very good at stemming boredom with spending money." "Shopping through boredom is about as far from a win-win situation as you can get. It’s expensive, you’ll probably regret it, and it’s not a long-term solution to your boredom." "Stepping outside your house has two major boredom-blocking benefits. One, it stems superficial boredom in an easy, cheap way. Two, it’s well-documented that walking does things to your brain that nothing else can." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9 Maalis 11min

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 3520: If mornings feel impossible, Erica Layne suggests flipping the script. What if your bedtime routine could be just as powerful? Instead of forcing a morning ritual that doesn’t stick, use the quiet moments before sleep to reflect, reset, and set intentions for the next day. Whether you’re a night owl or simply in a season of life where mornings aren’t realistic, embracing a mindful evening routine could be the key to better rest and a more fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ericalayne.co/failing-at-your-morning-routine/ Quotes to ponder: "It was more frustrating to HOPE for time to myself and then be disappointed than to just…keep sleeping and get up when they did." "If mornings aren’t working, maybe nights can." "You’re not broken, you’re just you." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8 Maalis 10min