
10 Golden Rules for Habit Formation
Why do some habits stick while others quickly crumble? This episode investigates the psychology of habits. Learn the science-backed secrets to forming habits that stick. In this episode, our host, Sam Webster Harris, breaks down the psychology behind habit formation and shares 10 research-proven rules to finally adopt your desired routines. Through examining studies on motivation, neuroscience, and behavior change, you'll discover how to overcome obstacles, leverage your environment, and create a habit formation blueprint tailored to your personality. - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen Youtube - @Samjam - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: 10 Golden Rules for Habit Formation Chapters: 00:00 - Forming habits for growth 02:51 - Rule #1 07:07 - Rule #2 14:44 - Rule # 3 20:11 - Rule # 4 23:07 - Rule # 5 27:02 - Rule # 6 30:01 - Rule # 7 35:38 - Rule # 8 39:27 - Rule # 9 46:10 - Rule # 10 49:34 - Bonus rule 52:33 - Send off Topics: Habit formation Psychology Neuroscience Behaviour change Goal setting Habit stacking Mindfulness Self-compassion Self-improvement Atomic habits Positive psychology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
29 Joulu 202356min

Walls of Perception: See Reality Hidden Behind Ego Blind Spots, Innate Biases & Terrible Logic
Do we see reality? In this thought-provoking episode, host Sam Webster Harris challenges us to shake off our nature and break down our barriers of perception. Delving into psychology and real-world examples, he reveals how our ego can lead us to make unreasonable judgments, erect barriers, and neglect the deeper connections we share with all people. Learn how flawed assumptions fuel prejudice, tribalism, racism, and sexism and enable atrocities throughout history. Discover why emphasizing similarities over differences allows us to build bridges, make wiser decisions, and lead with love. An insightful listen that will open your mind and heart to the endless ways we are united in our basic desires and capabilities. It is ideal for those seeking perspective, patience, and loving-kindness in divisive times. Equip yourself with the tools to move beyond bias, understand different views, and extend compassion - even to your enemies. It’s Christmas and a time for increasing love in the world and focusing on understanding each other better instead of amplifying our differences and pushing ourselves apart. If humanity's final exam is how we treat each other, this podcast will help you pass with flying colors. - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen Youtube - @Samjam - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: Walls of Perception: See reality hidden behind ego blind spots, innate biases & terrible logic Chapters: 00:00 Our focus on differences 00:34 Acast Ad break 02:13 Chimpanzees and Humans 05:22 New York vs. London 07:46 Similarities and differences of siblings 12:10 Dangers of focusing on our differences 14:27 Nazi's, Milei and our need for hope 18:19 Acast Ad break 18:27 Modern day: Isreal Hamas war 21:09 Racism and biases fueling war over compassion 21:48 Combating Sexism and Patriarchy 23:50 When feminism can create poor assumptions 26:27 Don't compare edge cases 28:52 Overcoming tribalism 31:42 Applying compassion over Christmas holiday 33:11 Send off Topics Ego blind spots Innate biases First principles thinking Develop a growth mindset Divisive politics Finding common ground and practical solutions Patriarchy, sexism, and feminism Racism, colonialism, war-mongering and paths to peace The issues behind Israel and Gaza Understanding your enemies Seeing reality Clouded thinking and poor logic Developing wisdom and understanding Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
22 Joulu 202337min

Open Minded Testing of Principles to Live By
St Augustine walked a long and winding road from violence and gratification to virtue and veneration. He wrote one of the first surviving autobiographies that also recorded his scientific approach to understanding religion and humanity with our flaws whilst exploring the philosophy of fulfilment. Journey inside the mind of one of history’s most influential thinkers. In this psychology and self-improvement-focused episode, we’re unpacking the first autobiography ever written – the Confessions of St. Augustine. In this episode we explore the landmark autobiography “Confessions” by St. Augustine, braiding philosophical insights across a dramatic life story arc. Journey through profound realizations about memory, learning, time, astrology, friendship formed through shared misdeeds, and the innate darkness within humanity. See how misguided faith gave way to an abiding wisdom we still reference today.” - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen Youtube - @Samjam - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: Open Minded Testing of Principles to Live By Chapters: 0:00 Curiosity Fuels the Quest for Truth 02:27 Overview on the Confessions of Saint Augustine 05:22 Ancient philosophies answering basic questions 06:27 St. Augustine's early childhood 10:34 Astrology's limit 12:09 Augustine's teenage years 14:22 Nature vs. Nurture 17:53 Ancient Understanding on Memory 19:34 Send off Topics St. Augustine The Confessions Stoicism Self improvement Humans Natural Flaw Overcoming Sinfulness Living in the Present Short-term Gratification Memory Astrology Curiosity Attraction of Faith an Happiness Spirituality Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
20 Joulu 202322min

Ego is the Enemy
The ego often stands as a formidable barrier to cultivating a growth mindset. It can cause us to stray from learning and strive for recognition and develop fixed mindset attitudes. In this thought-provoking episode, we delve deep into the fascinating realm of ego and its profound influence on our personal and professional growth. We'll share real-life stories of individuals and organizations who have grappled with the challenges of ego, from the towering successes to the unexpected failures. Through these captivating narratives, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how ego-driven behavior can derail even the most promising journeys. Discover the dangers of ego in the early stages of your endeavors, where the desire for instant success can blind you to valuable opportunities for learning and improvement. Explore how ego can cast a shadow over your achievements, making you more susceptible to complacency and resistance to change when success is at hand. In the face of failure, we'll uncover how ego can be an anchor, preventing you from bouncing back and turning setbacks into stepping stones. Learn how embracing humility, self-awareness, and a commitment to lifelong learning can lead to greater resilience and personal development. - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen Youtube - @Samjam - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: Ancient Greek Philosophy to Reduce Modern Anxiety Chapters: 00:00 Ego as a blocker for growth 08:51 Lesson from George Washington 09:36 5 problems of ego when starting new things 10:05 Resisting constructive feedback 10:21 Overpromising and underdelivering 10:42 Ignoring market research 11:32 Ego and success 13:34 5 areas where ego can block you 13:41 Arrogance and hubris 14:00 Resistance to change 14:17 Lack of accountability 14:48 Ignoring feedback 15:17 Resting on our laurels 19:11 Ego and Failure 22:06 5 areas that ego can blind us 22:15 Blaming external factors 22:36 Not learning from failure 23:18 Fear of reputational damage 23:51 Panic and desperation 24:05 Fixing things by making the same mistake 25:04 Accept and learn from your failures 26:13 Sendoff Topics: Elusive Ego Growth mindset Self-awareness Personal development Overcoming ego Success and ego Failure and ego Humility Learning from failure Resilience Ryan Holiday "Ego Is the Enemy" Ego-driven behavior Embracing humility Continuous learning Complacency Success stories Real-life examples Podcast discussion Lessons from Literature Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
16 Joulu 202329min

Decoding Epicurus' Happiness Hacks
Grow Your Mindset and Happiness, the Ancient Stoic Ways. Are modern self-help gurus just repackaging ancient wisdom? Learn the timeless psychological insights from legendary philosopher Epicurus that can help you achieve happiness, overcome fear, and live fully. In this psychology and personal growth-focused episode, we decode the dense 2000+ year old teachings of Epicurus, founder of Epicureanism. Understand the common misconceptions about what Epicurus stood for and what it means to live an Epicurean lifestyle of prudence and contentment. - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: Ancient Greek Philosophy to Reduce Modern Anxiety Chapters: 00:00 Choosing Happiness 02:33 The Principal Doctrines of Epicurus 03:57 Epicureanism and Stoicism 05:10 4 Keys to Happiness 05:39 Don't Fear Death 07:09 Lessons from a dying podcast guest 07:43 What is good is easy to get 08:56 Epicurus' Hierarchy of Desires 11:02 Epicurus' Lifestyle and Values 12:15 Epicurus on God 13:57 2 Framework from Epicurus 15:25 Send Off Relevant keywords Growth mindset podcast Epicurus Epicureanism Ancient Greek Philosophy Hedonism Pursuit of Pleasure Epicurean Paradox The Garden (Epicurus' school) Philosophy of Happiness Stoicism vs Epicureanism Ataraxia (Tranquility) Simple Living Desire Theory Death and Fearlessness Rational Pleasure Friendship and Community Hellenistic Philosophy Materialism (Philosophical Context) Epicurean Ethics The Nature of the Gods (Epicurean View) Legacy of Epicurus Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
12 Joulu 202318min

Live Before You Die
What if Seneca, the great Roman Stoic philosopher, suddenly appeared in modern times? He'd be horrified by our constant distractions and time-wasting on pointless status symbols and luxury goods. In this psychology and self-improvement podcast,, learn Seneca's profound and practical wisdom on overcoming fear, not postponing happiness, using time wisely in pursuit of wisdom, and truly living rather than merely existing. Discover ancient life lessons on what matters when your days are limited. - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen Youtube - @Samjam - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: Live Before You Die Chapters: 00:00 Seneca's quote on fearing death yet craving immortality 01:08 How Fear and Desire limits growth and potential 04:35 The Shortness of Life 07:27 Increasing Distractions around us 10:56 Lessons on Chasing Leisure, Luxury, Legacy 12:16 Leisure: You Should Not Postpone Happiness 12:59 Luxury 14:59 Legacy 16:49 Living Fully Through Wisdom 18:04 Gaining Knowledge from other people 20:30 Parallels of Stoicism and Buddhism 22:46 Podcast Hosts' Ratings for the book - On The Shortness of Life 22:46 Send Off Relevant keywords Growth Mindset Self-improvement Seneca Stoicism Philosophy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
8 Joulu 202326min

The Last Days of Socrates: An Unexamined Life Worth Living
Socrates questioned everything in pursuit of growth and wisdom - but seeking truth in ancient Athens would lead to his untimely death. We explore the incredible life, lessons and the trial of the most impactful philosophers of all time. Join Sam and Nico in this crossover episode as they mine timeless insights from the trial and final days of the great teacher. You'll reflect on conviction versus compromise, the roots of cognitive dissonance, and what it really means to live an examined life alongside one of history’s greatest thinkers. Whether you want to argue better, stand firmer in your truths, or simply see how profound an impact one defiant man had on philosophy and religion itself - this episode delivers. - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen Youtube - @Samjam - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: The Last Days of Socrates: An Unexamined Life Worth Living Chapters: 0:00 Socrates as an Advocate of Growth Mindset 02:14 Book review of The Final Days of Socrates 04:51 The Apology 11:21 The Phaedo 19:11 Sam's takeaways of the book 22:02 Nico's takeaways of the book 26:29 Send off Relevant keywords Growth mindset podcast Self-improvement Socrates Stoicism Philosophy Learning from history The last days of Socrates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
5 Joulu 202330min

The Socratic Method: Questioning Your Way to Growth
What if the path to true growth begins with admitting how little you actually know? Dive into the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates, who used cunning questions to expose holes in conventional thinking - holes that still trip us up today around self-improvement. If you enjoy learning about psychology, self-development, and the inner workings behind success, you’ll discover proven wisdom from ancient Greece on getting out of your own way. Hear unique Socratic tactics for questioning assumptions, overcoming knowledge bias, and admitting what you don’t know. If you enjoy learning about Stoicism, critical thinking, and the inner workings of progress, discover how this Greek master teacher's paradigm-shifting methods from antiquity can reveal blindspots of conventional thinking - even today. Become inspired to live more thoughtfully. - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen Youtube - @Samjam - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: The Socratic Method: Questioning Your Way to Growth Chapters: 00:00 - The value of uncovering assumptions and misconceptions 01:55 - Who Socrates Was 04:57 - The importance of examining your beliefs and assumptions 07:14 - Actionable Socratic questioning strategies for growth 09:46 - Mistakes and failure as integral to the growth process 11:03 - Living honorably by being what you pretend to be 11:33 - Growth requires brutal honesty about yourself 13:27 - Why knowledge is the one good & ignorance is the one evil 14:54 - Wrong actions stem from intellectual errors, not malice 17:27 - Responding peacefully by giving your brain time and space 18:21 - Knowledge and awareness as the path to freedom 19:41 - Send Off Relevant keywords Growth mindset Socrates Socratic method Self-improvement Psychology Self-awareness Critical Thinking Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
1 Joulu 202322min






















