Positively Living®: Do Less, Live More, Breathe Easier.

Text your thoughts and questions!

There is so much to appreciate about the holiday season, including time with those you love and experiences that connect you more deeply with others and yourself. It’s a time when you can take a break, enjoy treats, and think about what’s most important. But often, this doesn’t come without its fair share of stressors. To combat those stressors, I give you the 80/20 principle. By using this tool to reduce the impact of those stressors and highlight the good things, we can truly enjoy the holiday season. This week, episode 236 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about making your holiday season less stressful with the 80/20 principle.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m discussing reasons why we may experience increased stress during the holiday season and sharing several ways you can incorporate the 80/20 principle into your life so you can choose what works best for you. 

I cover the following topics:

• Where the 80/20 principle originated from and how it applies to many aspects of our everyday lives. 
• Four ways to simplify holiday shopping and reduce financial strain. 
• Four tips for managing your expectations around the holiday season. 
• Using the 80/20 principle to be selective with the holiday activities you participate in (choosing the 20% of things that bring you 80% of your joy). 
• As a bonus, I emphasize the importance of decluttering your physical, mental, and gift-giving spaces to instantly reduce stress. 

When you can be more present and prioritize what truly matters, you’ll reduce stress and create a more enjoyable and meaningful holiday season. That is what I wish for you.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me!  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 199: Using the 80/20 Principle to Leverage a Better Life

Ep 235: When You Must Say No for a Less Stressful Life

Decluttering Podcast Playlist

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2,

Text your thoughts and questions!

As a recovering people pleaser and a multi-passionate creative, I actually love saying YES to people and opportunities. But I’ve also learned what will happen if I’m not careful, intentional, and selective in the things I say yes to. This week, episode 235 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about when you must say no for a less stressful life!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing that, while it may feel good at the moment, saying yes to too many things can lead to stress, loss of focus, missed opportunities, and burnout. To avoid this, I am giving you actionable steps to take right now to evaluate what you want to say yes to so you can say no to the rest. 

I cover the following topics:

• The consequences of continually saying yes too often and, alternatively, the benefits of saying no when necessary.
• How to identify instances when you should say “no”, even when your instinct is telling you to say “yes.”
• Five practical tips you can use to evaluate the opportunities that come your way and set boundaries that protect your time and energy. 

This is not simply about saying "no” (though I encourage you to practice that) but realizing it’s when you say no that makes a big difference. This comes with practice and continued self-awareness. I encourage you to keep learning your limits so you can honor them and keep setting those boundaries to reduce stress, increase focus, and achieve your goals. 

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me!  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 117: How to Say No Without Feeling Guilty or Rude

Ep 53: How To Tell If I'm Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Text your thoughts and questions!

Invisible stressors are stressors in our lives that aren’t necessarily obvious but can build up over time and take us down. As a multi-passionate entrepreneur, volunteer, and solo parent and caregiver of a special needs child, Janis Isaman found herself experiencing an anxiety episode when her invisible stressors built up, leaving her feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and behind on her task list. This week, episode 234 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is a strategy call where I help Janis handle the invisible stressors in her demanding life! 

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, you’ll see how someone whose business revolves around wellness and who constantly checks all of the self-care boxes can still fall victim to invisible stressors. I coach Janis on navigating her unbalanced support systems, reducing visual clutter in her home, and managing the different areas of life that require her attention. 

Janis and I cover the following topics:

• Planning time and space for the unexpected to pop up without derailing everything else.
• Setting parameters about what notifications to allow all the time and setting designated times to check the rest. 
• Creating a system to organize and inventory the surplus of household items to reduce visual clutter and avoid over-buying. 
• Upholding the systems you put in place when life gets overwhelming. 

While these strategy calls speak directly to the problems my guest is facing, we can all fall victim to these invisible stressors. If you think you would benefit from a strategy session with me, I encourage you to reach out. I would love to help you navigate your unique problems. 

Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH JANIS ISAMAN:

My Body Couture 

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne Ferber

Life and Business Advice from a Multi-Passionate Mom Entrepreneur with Reena Friedman Watts

[Strategy Call] Balancing Family and Business with Roxanne Ferber

[Strategy Call] Managing Stress and Making the Most of Moving with Reena Friedman Watts 

Text your thoughts and questions!

According to Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies, I am a questioner by nature. In addition to constantly asking why, I also love answering questions too. I appreciate the challenge and the encouragement to reflect, which is probably why I love coaching. That’s why when I received a couple of related questions surrounding the topic of overwhelm, I wanted to take the time to answer them on the podcast, as I think my responses can be helpful for all of us. This week, episode 233 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about quick tips to try when you’re feeling overwhelmed. 

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m giving you practical advice when dealing with various types of overwhelm, how to manage your energy, and how to find the systems that make your life easier.

I cover the following topics:

• How you can begin sorting through everything when you’re overwhelmed (after taking care of yourself first).
• Advice for finding, learning, and actually using new systems that work for YOU.
• Tips for overcoming the paralyzing feelings of overwhelm and depression that creep up. 

Keep in mind that even when the overwhelm differs, the approach to help it is very similar. Take a moment to care for yourself, approach the situation with self-compassion, and make space to focus so you can decide what’s next. 

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me!  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

[PLP] Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

[PLP] How to Avoid Forgetting Things When Life Gets Hectic

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Text your thoughts and questions!

Whether you’re working for someone else or yourself, personal time is essential for maintaining mental and physical well-being, preventing burnout, and boosting your productivity and performance. It’s something we know we need to prioritize, but it can feel so challenging to make the time for it. This week, episode 232 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to prioritize personal time by setting boundaries!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing the common challenges that multi-passionate entrepreneurs, caregivers, and people pleasers face when setting boundaries around their time, and I offer you actionable steps to take right now to start prioritizing your personal time. 

I cover the following topics:

• Six reasons why it’s essential to prioritize our personal time. 
• Why it can be such a challenge to take personal time (even when we acknowledge the benefits). 
• Three steps to take when you’re ready to break free and create your own boundaries (and protect them). 

Prioritizing personal time isn't selfish; it’s essential. It's about filling your own cup so you can show up as your best self for the people and passions you care about. 

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me!  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do. The Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Manage Stress through Rest and Play with Gary Ware (buzzsprout.com)

How Overplanning Actually Hinders You From Doing More (buzzsprout.com)

Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley (buzzsprout.com)

How to Balance Your Life through Wholeness Pillars with Nicole Mixdorf (buzzsprout.com)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2,

Text your thoughts and questions!

Do you struggle to take action because something has to be “just right,” or do you beat yourself up for everything you’ve done wrong (without noticing all you've done right)? Maybe you feel like you’re just not enough because you can’t reach the level of achievement or quality you want. If so, you may be labeled a “perfectionist.” Steph Ellen Diplock, a recovered perfectionist, joins me on the podcast today to delve into the complexities of perfectionism, exploring its roots, manifestations, and the impact it has on us as individuals (especially women). This week, episode 231 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to become a recovering perfectionist!

In addition to being a recovered perfectionist, Steph Ellen is a multi-passionate mindset coach, energetic healer, certified yoga teacher, and equine veterinarian. Steph works with high achievers to let go of perfectionism and self-sabotage and live their purpose without hustle. Steph’s zone of genius is combining potent mindset coaching, shadow work, and nervous system regulation for a holistic and lasting transformation. 

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Steph Ellen Diplock shares how perfectionism is too often glorified yet is actually a form of self-sabotage, leading to procrastination and a lack of authentic connection. She offers you actionable steps to take right now to overcome perfectionism.

Steph Ellen and I cover the following topics:

• How perfectionism is less about having high standards and more a coping mechanism used to minimize feelings of shame and inadequacy.
• How to overcome perfectionism by being present, celebrating small successes, and having self-awareness paired with self-compassion.
• Finding safety in the body and practicing making mistakes in low-stakes environments are the first steps in getting comfortable with not being perfect. 

Keep in mind that as you start your journey, it’s not about sacrificing high standards. It’s about being kind to yourself in the process of trying to reach them. To overcome perfectionism, self-compassion–which is the greatest builder of resilience–is essential. 

CONNECT WITH STEPH ELLEN DIPLOCK:

Website

Instagram

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

How to Let Go of Shane and Rebuild Self-Trust with Valerie Friedlander

5 Ways to Take Back Your Self-Worth with Jomana Elaridi

Internal Family Systems As a Proven Treatment for Burnout with Katie LaCelle 

Binaural Beats: Sleep, Therapy, and Meditation (healthline.com)

The Diary Of A CEO - YouTube

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Text your thoughts and questions!

Productivity is often viewed as a one-size-fits-all solution, but that is far from the truth. There could be a hundred different factors that impact your productivity, one of which is the topic we’re addressing today: trauma. Becoming trauma-informed not only helps us when it comes to our personal development and productivity but is crucial for understanding ourselves and others on a deeper level. This week, episode 230 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why we need to be trauma-informed (more than ever)!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving into what a trauma-informed approach is, why it’s not just for therapists but for everyone, and how it’s not only compassionate but essential for sustainable productivity. 

I cover the following topics:

• Trauma’s significant impact on our ability to be productive, as it affects our energy levels, motivation, and focus. 
• How Trauma isn’t always how we imagine it. Yes, it can be linked to major catastrophes and great loss, but it can also be linked to childhood bullying, neglect, or immense burnout.
• Why taking a compassionate person-first approach to productivity and recognizing each person's unique challenges and experiences is essential to sustainable productivity.

Take heart and be encouraged, knowing that a trauma-informed approach will help you cultivate a healthy and sustainable relationship with productivity. 

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 221: How to Help People Dealing with Trauma and Grief with Janice Scholl | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Ep 29: Trauma-Informed Life with Mallory Jackson | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Ep 53: How To Tell If I'm Codependent with Mallory Jackson (buzzsprout.com)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Text your thoughts and questions!

While our ability to be flexible and resilient and change direction is important, planning first is essential. It’s a way to arrange how things will go ideally, and even if they don’t go that way, it will still help you keep focused and remain calm so you can be more flexible and resilient. This approach will be helpful as we enter the busy holiday season full of plans and events and be a tool to carry through the rest of the year as well. This week, episode 229 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the most important direction for effective planning!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m giving you a framework and perspective that’s going to simplify the concept of planning and help you execute your plans with confidence and clarity, regardless of what you’re planning.

I cover the following topics:

• The essence of “backwards” planning by visualizing the end result you’re aiming to achieve: “Begin with the end in mind,” as coined by Stephen R. Covey in his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
• Using the example of planning a Thanksgiving dinner to break down the 5 parts of planning anything.
• How to take this framework beyond event planning and use it in all other areas of your life. 

Remember, planning is a powerful tool that empowers you to create the life you desire. By starting with the end in mind and embracing the key elements of planning, you can transform your vision into reality.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

PLP Episode 137: How to Create a Vision Board That Works 

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Text your thoughts and questions!

While I don’t presume to know what your life is all about, I bet I can guess one thing about you: you handle a LOT. Whether you’re handling the mental load of caregiving or your mind is overflowing with ideas (or both), it can be overwhelming. It can feel amazing at times, all the while draining you and keeping you from functioning at your best. Luckily, the solution is more simple than you might think. It’s all about the art of “capturing”: taming the mental clutter so you can remember what’s important and boost your focus and creativity. This week, episode 228 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to avoid forgetting things when life gets hectic!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m digging into a concept called capturing. I share the origins of this technique, what it is, how it connects to mind sweeps and clutter, and give you actionable steps to take right now to try it for yourself. 

I cover the following topics:

• The negative impacts of an overwhelmed and cluttered mind. 
• The concept of “capturing” as outlined in David Allen’s “Getting Things Done” (GTD) productivity framework.
• How to properly do a “mind sweep” and two resources you can use when you’re ready. 
• My personal approach and preferred tools to this technique of capturing in my multi-passionate life.

Don’t be afraid to keep trying until you figure out what works best for you. The best system for you is the one you will use.

If you’re interested in any of the tools or resources I mentioned in this episode, you can find them all linked on the RESOURCES page of my website. 

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me!  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Text your thoughts and questions!

Positive habits are the cornerstone of a productive and fulfilling life, but mastering them can be a challenge. Today I am continuing our conversation about habits with more advanced strategies to help you maximize your productivity, reach your goals, and unlock the secret to sustainable, long-lasting change in your life. This week, episode 227 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about combining and stacking habits for better results!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing a strategic habit building technique that helps you reach your goals faster and gives you actionable steps to take right now to incorporate these game-changing techniques into your everyday life.

I cover the following topics:

• Reviewing the science behind habits: how we create them, why they’re so hard to break, and how powerful they can be. 
• Where the term “habit stacking” comes from and a simple formula for how to do it.
• Ideas and examples for how you can incorporate habit stacking and anchoring throughout your day.
• How focusing on building keystone habits can help you maximize the positive habits you create.

Habits are your building blocks of a productive and fulfilling life. There are so many ways habits, especially when we combine the right ones, can change our lives for the better. What habit will you work on next?

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me!  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook

Instagram

Resources

Work with Lisa! 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 15: How to Harness Habits to Achieve Your Goals

Ep 225: How to Rebuild a Lost Habit or Create a Better One

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!