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 1710:

Kate Erickson reveals why the most successful businesses thrive by focusing entirely on their customers' needs rather than their own internal goals. She also shares practical methods for overcoming frustration, helping entrepreneurs stay grounded and mission-driven even when challenges arise.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.eofire.com/make-it-about-your-customer-not-your-business/ & https://www.eofire.com/dont-let-frustration-get-the-best-of-you/

Quotes to ponder:

"Your customers don’t care about your business; they care about themselves and what you can do for them."

"If you lose your temper or let frustration get the best of you, you’ve already lost the battle."

"Take a step back, breathe deeply, and remember your mission, not just for yourself but for those you serve."

Episode references:

Journaling App "Day One": https://dayoneapp.com/

Meditation App "Headspace": https://www.headspace.com/

The Compound Effect: https://www.amazon.com/Compound-Effect-Darren-Hardy/dp/159315724X

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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 1709:

Ryan H. Law explores the concept of deliberate learning, emphasizing how intentional practice and focused learning strategies can accelerate personal and professional growth. He also shares "The Parable of the Mexican Fisherman," a timeless story that reminds us to rethink success and happiness by aligning our ambitions with what truly matters.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanhlaw.com/deliberate-learning/ & https://ryanhlaw.com/the-parable-of-the-mexican-fisherman/

Quotes to ponder:

"Knowledge is important, but deliberate learning is key."

"Imagine living simply and happily, instead of chasing after something you already have."

"Deliberate learning focuses on studying with purpose, measuring your progress, and adjusting as needed."

Episode references:

Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise: https://www.amazon.com/Peak-Secrets-New-Science-Expertise/dp/0544456238

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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 1708:

Ryan Hoover explores how nostalgia can be a potent emotional trigger in product design, enhancing user loyalty and deepening engagement. By subtly integrating elements of the past, designers can create products that resonate on a more personal and emotional level.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/on-startups/nostalgia-a-product-designers-secret-weapon-641d4ec6b400

Quotes to ponder:

"Nostalgia, at its core, is a longing for the past, a past that we’ve emotionally edited into a better version than it might have been."

"The right dose of nostalgia can create an emotional shortcut, bypassing logic and heading straight for the heart."

"Smart product designers use nostalgia carefully, as an ingredient, not the main course."

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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 1707:

Carl Pullein breaks down how a structured weekly planning session can significantly boost your productivity and reduce stress. By aligning your tasks with clear goals and blocking time for focused work, you can regain control of your week and prevent overwhelm before it starts.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.carlpullein.com/blog/how-to-do-a-weekly-planning-session/18/11/2020-1

Quotes to ponder:

"A weekly planning session gives you the opportunity to take back control of your life."

"You are not planning tasks, you are planning time."

"When you know what needs doing and when you are going to do it, stress and overwhelm disappear."

Episode references:

Evernote: https://evernote.com/

Google Calendar: https://calendar.google.com/

Todoist: https://todoist.com/

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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 1706:

Nir Eyal breaks down how to build better habits by leveraging the same psychological principles that make apps and products so addictive. By understanding internal triggers and reinforcing behavior through simple, consistent cues, anyone can design habits that stick, without relying on sheer willpower.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nirandfar.com/habit-forming/

Quotes to ponder:

"Behavior that gets rewarded gets repeated."

"The best products don’t win by being the most habit-forming, they win by being the most useful and easiest to use."

"All habits start with a trigger, a cue to act."

Episode references:

Atomic Habits: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299

BJ Fogg’s Behavior Model: https://www.behaviormodel.org/

Hooked: https://www.amazon.com/Hooked-How-Build-Habit-Forming-Products/dp/1591847788

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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 1705:

Steve Pavlina shares ten practical and uplifting ways to transform your workspace into a zone of calm, creativity, and flow. From ambient soundscapes to personalized decor, his suggestions help reduce stress and boost productivity by turning your environment into a reflection of inner peace.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.stevepavlina.com/blog/2006/06/10-ways-to-relaxify-your-workspace/

Quotes to ponder:

"One of the simplest ways to reduce stress in your work environment is to make it more relaxing."

"A few well-placed plants can do wonders to improve the atmosphere of a room."

"Clutter is a form of visual distraction, and it can be a subtle source of stress."

Episode references:

The Power of Now: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808

The Relaxation Response: https://www.amazon.com/Relaxation-Response-Herbert-Benson/dp/0380006766

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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 1704:

Steve Pavlina shares ten practical strategies to transform your workspace into a more peaceful, inspiring, and productive environment. From optimizing lighting to incorporating soothing sounds, each tip is designed to help reduce stress and enhance mental clarity during your workday.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.stevepavlina.com/blog/2006/06/10-ways-to-relaxify-your-workspace/

Quotes to ponder:

"Add a little beauty to your workspace. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about feeding your spirit."

"Sometimes the best way to relaxify your workspace is to get rid of it."

"A simple speaker and a few ambient music tracks can go a long way toward making your workspace more peaceful."

Episode references:

Think and Grow Rich: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331

Getting Things Done: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Stress-Free-Productivity/dp/0142000280

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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 1703:

Chris Guillebeau unpacks timeless lessons from launching over a dozen products, distilling insights that go far beyond profit margins. Learn how authenticity, storytelling, and strategic generosity can shape a loyal audience and drive sustainable success.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisguillebeau.com/product-launch-lessons/

Quotes to ponder:

"Don’t try to make something for everyone. Make something for someone."

"If you’ve done a good job building trust, a launch isn’t a hard sell, it’s a natural next step."

"People don’t buy products, they join stories."

Episode references:

Side Hustle: https://www.amazon.com/Side-Hustle-Idea-Income-Without/dp/1524758841

The $100 Startup: https://www.amazon.com/100-Startup-Reinvent-Living-Create/dp/0307951529

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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 1702:

Laura Stack shares a strategic approach to help managers integrate new team members swiftly and effectively. By using clear communication, structured onboarding, and thoughtful mentoring, leaders can minimize downtime and turn new hires into productive contributors faster.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://theproductivitypro.com/blog/2017/03/easy-integration-getting-new-team-members-up-and-running-quickly/

Quotes to ponder:

"Make sure your new team member has a clear understanding of the organization’s vision, mission, and goals."

"Assign a mentor to shepherd your new employee through their first few weeks."

"Don’t assume the new team member knows what’s expected of them unless you tell them."

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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 1701:

Michael Levitt outlines the strategic value of integrating freelancers into your business, from boosting innovation to minimizing overhead costs. He also explores how employers can refine their hiring process to ensure candidates align with company culture, goals, and values, leading to stronger team cohesion and long-term success.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/four-reasons-why-your-business-needs-freelancers & https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-ensure-your-employees-are-fit-for-your-organization

Quotes to ponder:

"Freelancers bring in fresh perspectives and skills that can accelerate your business growth."

"A misaligned employee can impact morale, productivity, and even customer satisfaction."

"The right employee fit results in better performance, stronger engagement, and increased retention."

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