Episode Highlight: On this episode of the Embracing "Only" podcast, we delve into redefining productivity and thriving amidst struggle with Grace Marshall, an award-winning author, speaker, and productivity ninja at Think Productive. She's here today to share how we can redefine success on our own terms and how life's messiest moments can spark growth, creativity, and resilience.

Grace is a self-proclaimed, naturally disorganized, chief encourager. She helps people rethink productivity, not as a relentless race to do more, but as a way to work smarter with heart. She's coached thousands from being overwhelmed to learning how to get things done without burning out in the process. She's been featured in The Guardian, Forbes, and on BBC Radio.

Key Discussion Points:

03:43 Redefining Productivity: Ticking things off a list can be a seductive form of productivity. However, giving yourself the space to be curious and explore failure is productive as well. 

09:17 Cultivating a Fulfilling Work-Life Experience: When your work is enjoyable, it’s sustainable because it’s not going to lead to burnout.

12:37 How to Go From Survival Mode to Thriving: Reframing the phrase “I’ve got to” with “I get to” will help you look for opportunities and joy in your life.

19:22 Finding Opportunity Amidst Struggle: First, recognize that you are struggling, then get curious about the situation. When we approach a struggle with curiosity, it allows us to find opportunity within it.

32:49 Separating Truth from Fiction: When you are in a triggering situation, asking yourself what is true helps you separate the facts from your fears and feelings.

40:51 Handling High-Functioning Fear in Leadership: As a leader, it is important to surround yourself with truth-tellers so they can help you snap out of high-functioning fear if needed.

In Summary: Grace Marshall encourages us to rethink productivity by embracing curiosity, to redefine success on our own terms, and to view life’s struggles as opportunities for growth. She stresses the importance of creating work experiences that are fulfilling.

Resources from this episode:

How to be REALLY Productive: Achieving Clarity And Getting Results In A World Where Work Never Ends by Grace Marshall

Struggle: The surprising truth, beauty and opportunity hidden in life’s sh*ttier moments by Grace Marshall

Follow Grace on Linkedin or check out her website.

If you happen to be a woman of color and you are looking for a community of like minded women, join Olivia here: https://www.mysistersshoulders.com/.

Connect with your hosts:

Follow Archita on Linkedin or check out her website.

Follow Olivia on Linkedin or check out her website.

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Ready to make a change?
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