Start with Small Steps

Start with Small Steps

By Jill from The NorthwoodsEducation
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Start with Small Steps episodes

  • 98 - Create New Standards for Time and Life

    In this episode, I dive into Oliver Burkeman's book "Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals" and explore some powerful ways to break free from productivity traps and focus on what truly matters. Burkeman has some great advice, like limiting task lists to just a few items, focusing on one thing at a time, and even embracing boring technology. But one of my favorite takeaways is the idea of deciding what to fail at. It may sound counterintuitive, but sometimes letting go of certain tasks or goals can actually free up more time and energy to pursue what's truly important.

    So, I challenge you to take a page out of Burkeman's book and think about four things you can get rid of or plan to fail at. It might be tough at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. And don't forget to pay attention to the small things in life, research your relationships, practice generosity, and even take some time to do nothing. You'll be surprised at how much more fulfilling life can be when you focus on what truly matters.

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3267

    https://www.oliverburkeman.com/

    Jill’s Links
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    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

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    14 min
  • 97 – Abandon the Time Traps

    97 – Abandon the Time Trap by focusing on your Purpose

    I review Oliver Burkeman’s book “Four Thousand Weeks” and it completely changed my perspective on time and productivity. Rather than constantly trying to do more and falling into the “time trap,” Burkeman suggests focusing on our purpose and embracing radical incrementalism. This means breaking tasks down into smaller steps and prioritizing what truly matters. By doing so, we can gain control of our lives and work towards our ultimate purpose, finding true rest and fulfillment. Join me as I dive deeper into the concept of radical incrementalism and its potential to transform our lives.

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3260

    https://www.oliverburkeman.com/

    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

    21 min
  • 96 - Our Damaging Concept of Time

    96 - Our Damaging Concept of Time

    I review book called "4,000 Weeks, Time Management for Mortals" by Oliver Burkeman. It changed my perspective on time management and the pressure we put on ourselves to constantly be productive. Burkeman challenges the traditional concept of time management and argues that it's impossible to ever feel like we're doing enough. The problem lies in our attitude towards time, which sets up a game that can never be won.

    After reading this book, I realized that it's important to focus on what's truly important and learn to say no to distractions. We also need to acknowledge that it's okay to have unpleasant moments and not everything needs to be perfect all the time. By doing so, we can reduce the stress and depression caused by time management and distractions.

    I highly recommend checking out this book if you're feeling overwhelmed by the constant pressure to be productive. It's a game-changer!

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3253

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/ruthlessly-eliminate-noise/

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3267

    https://www.oliverburkeman.com/

    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

    21 min
  • 95 - Ending the Lies

    95 – 95 - Ending the Lies

    In this episode, I dive deep into the different types of lies we often tell ourselves. From outright lies to white lies and lies of omission, I explore how these untruths can damage our credibility and hinder our progress toward our goals. But don’t worry, I also offer some valuable advice on how to stop lying to ourselves. By being honest with ourselves, taking small steps, and accepting feedback from others, we can break free from this destructive cycle and live our best lives.

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3243

    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

    20 min
  • 94 - The Lies We Tell Ourselves

    94 - The Lies We Tell Ourselves


    In this episode, I delve into the topic of lying to oneself. I share my personal experiences with this damaging habit and offer insights into common lies that we tell ourselves, like “I’m not good enough” or “I can’t do it.” It’s essential to recognize and confront these lies if we want to achieve our goals and live fulfilling lives. Join me as I explore how we can break free from self-deception and move forward with confidence.

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3237

    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

    19 min
  • 93 - Make Everyone Happier at Work

    93 - Make Everyone Happier at Work
    The book "People Styles at Work and Beyond" and opened my eyes to the importance of understanding different personality types in the workplace. The book identifies four main types - analytical, driver, amiable, and expressive - each with their own strengths and weaknesses. I learned that by observing and practicing how to adapt to different styles, we can improve our teamwork and workplace relationships.

    One key takeaway from the book is that we should focus on maximizing our strengths rather than trying to fix our weaknesses. It also emphasizes the importance of manners, respect, and communication in the workplace.

    I really believe that by being more flexible and understanding of others' styles, we can create a more positive and productive work environment. So let's all take steps towards better teamwork together!

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3231

    https://hcleadershipessentials.com/blogs/leadership/the-people-styles-model-for-gaining-selfawareness-as-a-leader

     
    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

     

    24 min
  • 92 - Identify Your Work Style

    92 - Identify Your Work Style

    In this episode, I dive into the topic of work styles and how they impact relationships in the workplace. The “book People Styles at Work and Beyond" by Robert Bolton and Dorothy Grover Bolton categorizes work styles into four quadrants: analytical, driver, amiable, and expressive. It was so interesting to learn about each style and its characteristics. Understanding different work styles can be a game-changer when it comes to working effectively with others.

    I challenge you to identify your work style and think about the pros and cons that come with it. Let's work together to create a more harmonious and productive workplace!

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3225

    https://hcleadershipessentials.com/blogs/leadership/the-people-styles-model-for-gaining-selfawareness-as-a-leader

    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

    20 min
  • 91 - Thrive in the Seasons of Life

    91 - Thrive in the Seasons of Life

    Today, I talk about how life is like the changing of the seasons. Just like the weather, life is full of ups and downs, and we need to learn how to adapt to each season. I want to encourage you to embrace the lessons and opportunities of each season, whether it’s a time for learning, growth, reaping benefits, or reflection. It’s important to plan appropriately for each season and figure out what the next season might be. Remember, every season has a purpose, and we should always be learning and sharing our experiences with others. So, let’s take a moment to appreciate the season we’re in and prepare for what’s to come.

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3213

    https://www.arhantayoga.org/blog/the-four-seasons-of-life/

    https://www.developgoodhabits.com/seasons-life/

    https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/10-reasons-to-embrace-the-season-of-life-you-re-in.html

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn!_Turn!_Turn!\

    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    21 min
  • 90 - Maximize Your Choices and Be Satisfied

     

    90 - Maximize Your Choices and Be Satisfied

    I discuss the concept of maximizers and satisficers, people who seek the best of everything versus those who are content with good enough. Dr. Barry Schwartz's book, The Paradox of Choice, explores this topic and finds that maximizers tend to be less happy and more anxious than satisficers. I share my own experiences and offer advice for both types of decision-makers. I also note that being a maximizer or satisficer can vary based on the situation and that learning to choose in a world full of unHave you ever heard of the concept of maximizers and satisficers? It's a fascinating topic that I've been exploring lately.

    Whether you're a maximizer or a satisficer can vary based on the situation. Sometimes it's important to go all out and seek the absolute best option, while other times it's better to just be content with what's good enough.

    But let's face it, making decisions in a world full of unlimited possibilities can be overwhelming. That's why I suggest finding a balance between the two and making decisions based on what is most important at the moment. Ultimately, I suggest finding a balance between the two and making decisions based on what is most important at the moment.

    https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3208

    https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20210329-do-maximisers-or-satisficers-make-better-decisions

    https://medium.com/growth-habits-lab/how-to-make-better-decisions-are-you-a-satisficer-or-a-maximizer-5c789693b941

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/science-choice/201506/satisficing-vs-maximizing

    https://freakonomics.com/podcast/are-you-a-maximizer-or-a-satisficer-nsq-ep-14/

    https://gretchenrubin.com/2006/06/are_you_a_satis/

    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

    21 min
  • 89 - Ben Franklin and His Life Improvement Plan

    89 - Ben Franklin and His Life Improvement Plan

    I recently came across Benjamin Franklin’s Book of Virtues and was intrigued by the system he developed to become a better person. He identified 13 virtues, one for each week, and worked on improving himself in each area. These virtues include things like temperance, order, and sincerity. The most amazing part about this system is that it’s not just about reflecting on these virtues, but actually taking action to improve ourselves. Franklin found that even attempting to attain these virtues made him a happier person. I think this system could be adapted to any personal virtues we want to work on and help us become better versions of ourselves.

     https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3199

    https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/01/health/13-virtues-wisdom-project/index.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OegmiOQNxVo

    Jill’s Links
    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

    Twitter startwithsmallsteps

    Email the podcast at [email protected]

    21 min

About Start with Small Steps

From the publisher's feed

Start With Small Steps is a practical, thoughtful podcast about making meaningful progress in everyday life—without overwhelm. Each episode breaks big ideas into small, manageable steps you can actually use, whether you’re working on habits, health, productivity, faith, or personal growth.