Kaira Jewel Lingo was a nun in Thich Nhat Hanh's Plum Village monastery for 15 years, a leader in his mindfulness retreats and programs, helped edit some of his bestselling books. Then she decided to leave monastic life, and go into the uncertainty of what to do next. She wrote a beautiful book called, "We Were Made for These Times: Ten Lessons for Moving Through Change, Loss, and Disruption."Topics covered:Kaira Jewel’s passions for building communities and spaces for self-discovery, along with eco-dharma — exploring how spirituality can address environmental crisesThe benefits of holding meditation retreats outdoors, emphasizing nature's role in healing and its ability to absorb human emotions and experiencesEmbarking on a new path without knowing what comes next — and sitting with uncertaintyHow to work with moments of doubt and discomfort during transition, and learning to trust the process and not rush into decisionsThe possibility and freedom that comes with not knowingHow to stay calm and mindful in a stressful situation, using mindfulness practices to stay grounded and nourished in your busy life
Links:Kaira Jewel's websiteHer book: We Were Made for These Times
Connect with LeoZen Habits Youtube channel X (Twitter)  Instagram Zen Habits Facebook Group Tiktok channel Email leo@zenhabits.netResourcesThe Fearless Living AcademyCreditsIntro music composition: Salem Beladonna & Robrecht Dumarey Editor: Justin Cruz

S1 Bonus Interview: Kaira Jewel Lingo, of Thich Nhat Hanh's Monastery, on Uncertainty

Hosted by Leo Babauta, the Zen Habits Podcast explores the power of ritual in support of your greatest purpose, taking on meaningful work, and creating more impact through daily action.

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Fear of failure can be a significant barrier to achieving our creative goals, often causing us to doubt our abilities and hesitate to share our work with the world. This fear can keep us stuck in a cycle of inaction and self-criticism, preventing us from realizing our true potential. In this episode, we examine the deep-seated fear of failure and its impact on our creativity. We explore the underlying causes of this fear, such as self-doubt and fear of criticism, and discuss practical strategies for overcoming it. By building self-trust and learning to reinterpret criticism, we can transform our relationship with failure and use it as a catalyst for growth and improvement. Join me as we dive into practical strategies for building self-trust, embracing failure as part of the creative process, and developing a resilient mindset that fosters continuous learning and creative expression.Topics CoveredUnderstanding the fear of failure and its impact on creativityThe relationship between fear of failure and self-doubtHow fear of criticism affects creative expressionStrategies for building self-trust and resilienceFinding constructive feedback in criticismThe importance of embracing failure as part of the learning processPractical steps to develop a supportive mindset for creativityThe role of curiosity and playfulness in overcoming fearTechniques for staying present and focused during the creative process
TranscriptYou can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.Connect with LeoZen Habits Youtube channel X (Twitter)  Instagram Zen Habits Facebook Group Tiktok channel Email: podcast@zenhabits.netResourcesThe Fearless Living Academy Fearless MasteryCreditsMusic: Salem Belladonna & Robrecht Dumarey Editor: Justin Cruz Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro & Amanda Goddard

S2 Ep10 - Fear of Failure

Creativity thrives not just on inspiration but on the steady accumulation of small, deliberate actions. Yet, many creatives find themselves challenged by the need to maintain a consistent practice. The key to overcoming this challenge lies in building a foundation of sustainable habits and practices that support incremental progress and ongoing creativity. This week, I’m thrilled and honored to welcome special guest James Clear, a celebrated author, blogger, and thought leader. His book, Atomic Habits, has transformed the lives of millions with its practical approach to habit formation and improvement. James brings a wealth of knowledge on how small changes can lead to remarkable results, making his expertise invaluable for those seeking to build a resilient and effective creative practice. In this episode, we dive into James’ journey, from his early days as a blogger to the phenomenal success of his book. We discuss the challenges he faced, the strategies he employed to maintain consistency in his creative work, and how he manages the balance between professional demands and personal life. We also dive into the impact of Atomic Habits, the evolution of his creative practice, and his disciplined approach to writing and creativity. Tune in as we explore the important role of consistency in creative projects, the power of honing one’s craft for long-term success, and the profound impact of aligning your work with your values and goals.Topics CoveredJames' journey from blogger to bestselling authorThe foundational principles of Atomic HabitsStrategies for maintaining consistency in creative workThe role of small, deliberate actions in achieving long-term successBalancing professional demands with personal lifeThe impact of habit formation on creative practiceThe evolution of James' writing and creative processesOvercoming challenges in habit-building and creativityThe importance of aligning creative work with personal valuesPractical tips for developing a sustainable creative practice
TranscriptYou can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.James' Bio & ResourcesJames Clear is a writer and keynote speaker focused on habits, decision making, and continuous improvement. His book, Atomic Habits, has sold over 15 million copies worldwide, has been translated into more than 60 languages and was the #1 best-selling book of 2021 and 2023 on Amazon and #1 audiobook on Audible. James is a regular speaker at Fortune 500 companies and his work has been featured in publications such as Time magazine, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and on CBS This Morning and Today Show Australia. He is a MasterClass instructor, alongside the world’s top experts such as Serena Williams, Neil Gaiman and Gordon Ramsay. His popular “3-2-1” email newsletter is sent out each week to more than 3 million subscribers. James doesn’t merely report the research of others. He tries out the concepts for himself as he experiments with building better habits as an entrepreneur, writer, and weightlifter. In the end, his talks end up being one-part storytelling, one-part academic research, and one-part personal experiment, forming a colorful blend of inspirational stories, academic science, and hard-earned wisdom.JamesClear.comAtomic Habits
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S2 Bonus - James Clear on Developing an Effective Creative Practice

Many of us find ourselves trapped in a cycle of avoidance and procrastination when facing projects that matter deeply to us. This resistance often stems from a mix of fear, uncertainty, and a lack of effective strategies to navigate these challenges. But what if we could harness the power of rituals and structure in our daily routines to overcome these common pitfalls? In this episode, I introduce the Fearless Ritual, a powerful daily practice designed to help us face the uncertainty and fear that often derail our creative projects. We dive into how this ritual, together with the Four-Step Creator Process, forms a robust framework to foster a fearless approach to challenges, enhancing focus and productivity. We discuss how, by committing to this practice, we can make substantial progress in our work and develop a deeper understanding and mastery over our creative processes. We also cover practical steps to incorporate this framework into your daily life, ensuring each day is a step forward in your creative journey. Join me as we explore how the Fearless Ritual can transform not just how you work, but also how you view your capabilities and creative potential in the face of adversity. Topics CoveredIntroduction to the Fearless RitualBenefits of daily rituals in tackling resistanceThe Four-Step Creator’s ProcessFacing and managing resistance in creative projectsBuilding confidence and trust through ritualistic practiceThe importance of routine in overcoming creative barriersStrategies for maintaining consistency in ritualsThe role of community and feedback in creative processesEnhancing focus and productivity through structured rituals
TranscriptYou can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.Connect with LeoZen Habits Youtube channel X (Twitter)  Instagram Zen Habits Facebook Group Tiktok channel Email: podcast@zenhabits.netResourcesThe Fearless Living Academy Fearless MasteryCreditsMusic: Salem Belladonna & Robrecht Dumarey Editor: Justin Cruz Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro & Amanda Goddard

S2 Ep09 - Fearless Ritual & the Creator's Process

In the world of entrepreneurship, it's all too common to see an overemphasis on quick success and profit maximization, often at the expense of the deeper, more sustainable aspects of business creation and personal fulfillment. This narrow focus can leave entrepreneurs feeling unfulfilled and isolated despite their outward success. This week, I’m delighted to welcome Abi Mandelbaum, an entrepreneur who stands out for his commitment to integrating creativity and deep personal values into his business ventures. Abi's approach not only fosters innovation but also nurtures the human spirit, creating a more holistic model for success. In this episode, we delve into Abi’s journey, exploring how he seamlessly blends the art of creation with the science of business. We discuss the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a profit-driven world, the benefits of fostering a collaborative culture in business, the role of creativity in solving complex problems, and how these elements contribute to both personal well-being and business success. Join us as we uncover the essence of creating with purpose, revealing how a dedication to authenticity and creativity can redefine success and lead to more meaningful achievements both in business and in life.Topics CoveredAbi's entrepreneurial and personal journeyIntegration of personal values in businessDefining success beyond financial gainsThe role of authenticity in entrepreneurial leadershipChallenges of maintaining integrity in competitive marketsInfluence of purpose on business strategy and decisionsBuilding a values-driven company cultureImpact of entrepreneurial practices on personal well-beingStrategies for balancing profit and principles
TranscriptYou can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.Guest's Bio & ResourcesAbi Mandelbaum stands as a pioneering force in the realms of technology, education, and mental health, revered for his groundbreaking initiatives and forward-thinking approach. From the inception of YouVisit, he propelled the company to the forefront of interactive technology, fostering engagement with esteemed entities like Microsoft, HP, and top-tier academic institutions. Under his guidance, YouVisit flourished, culminating in its acquisition by Vista Equity Partners, a testament to Abi's knack for innovation and strategic leadership. Beyond YouVisit, his entrepreneurial endeavors are rooted in a profound mission—to cultivate environments fostering collective healing and human transformation, a purpose that resonates throughout his ventures. Moreover, Abi's impact extends beyond boardrooms and businesses, as he actively advocates for mental health awareness and serves as a beacon of support within his community. His involvement with Endeavor underscores his commitment to high-impact entrepreneurship on a global scale. Yet, amidst his professional pursuits, Abi maintains a harmonious balance, embracing personal interests such as tennis, exploration, and nature alongside his cherished family. Through his blog and public engagements, Abi invites others to join him in a journey where professional success intertwines with personal fulfillment, demonstrating the profound intersection of business and purpose.Abi's websiteAbi's LinkedIn profileEndeavor's website
Zen Habits Resources<a href="https://ignite.zenhabits.net/fearless-living" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

S2 Bonus - Abi Mandelbaum on Values-Driven Entrepreneurship

Navigating the complex landscape of creative work often means facing a myriad of internal and external challenges. Every creator grapples with profound questions about purpose, direction, and the anxiety of venturing into uncharted territories. In this special episode, we dive into such universal concerns, providing guidance and insight for those at a crossroads in their creative lives. I answer questions submitted by our listeners, who share their struggles with sustaining creativity in the face of daunting challenges. We unpack the emotional and practical sides of these issues, addressing topics such as overcoming creative blocks, the fear of public failure, managing perfectionism, and preventing burnout. Join me as we uncover the power of perspective in overcoming creative adversities. Be inspired to transform challenges into opportunities for self-discovery, and to take the next step in your creative journey.Topics CoveredThe impact of fear of success and how it influences creative productivityStrategies for transitioning seamlessly between different creative pursuitsPractical techniques for overcoming 'blank page syndrome' and reigniting the creative sparkUnderstanding and managing the fear of public failure and its effects on creativityThe role of perfectionism in stifling creativity and how to embrace a more flexible approachLong-term project management strategies to maintain motivationAddressing and preventing burnout through routine adjustments and self-careThe influence of audience engagement on creative outputHow to effectively find and connect with the right audience
TranscriptYou can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.Connect with LeoZen Habits Youtube channel X (Twitter)  Instagram Zen Habits Facebook Group Tiktok channel Email: podcast@zenhabits.netResourcesThe Fearless Living Academy Fearless MasteryCreditsMusic: Salem Belladonna & Robrecht Dumarey Editor: Justin Cruz Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro & Amanda Goddard

S1 Bonus Interview: Kaira Jewel Lingo, of Thich Nhat Hanh's Monastery, on Uncertainty

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