The Pulse

For the first time ever, I’m staying home for the holidays—no travel, just me in my apartment. As an expat who’s used to jet-setting to see family and friends, this feels unfamiliar, even intimidating. But I’m choosing to see it as a new kind of adventure: a chance to slow down, explore my own city like a tourist, and tackle those lingering to-dos (without guilt!).

In this episode, I’m sharing:

• Why "home vacations" feel weird (especially as an expat with family scattered across the world).

• My plan to turn staycation into soulcation: Museums I’ve never visited, cozy routines, and finally crossing off those "I’ll do it later" tasks.

• The fear—and excitement—of solitude in the darkest days of winter.

This isn’t just about saving money or time. It’s about rediscovering the joy of where I live and giving myself permission to rest—truly rest—without the pressure to "do" anything.

Your turn: Have you ever taken a "home vacation"? How did you make it special? Hit reply—I’d love your tips!

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This year, I realized something powerful: Celebrating small wins isn’t selfish—it’s essential. In this reflective episode of The Pulse, I’m sharing why I’m bringing back my monthly mini-recaps (a personal diary of sorts) to remind myself of all the moments—big and small—that made 2025 meaningful.

From running my longest race (27K!) to launching this podcast (and sticking with it!), I’ve learned that achievements aren’t just about the big milestones. They’re also about:

• The rainy runs that didn’t make it into Strava highlights.

• The resilience of navigating tough times with my dog.

• The tiny steps out of my comfort zone (like finally solving a Rubik’s Cube!).

I’m also reintroducing a private monthly recap—not for likes, but for me—to remember the joy, progress, and even the mundane moments that add up to a life well-lived.

Your turn: What’s one win (big or small) you’re proud of from 2025? Hit reply—I’d love to celebrate with you!

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Let’s be honest: Our to-do lists are never really empty—and that’s okay. In this raw, reflective episode of The Pulse, I’m diving into the weight of constant busyness, the guilt of unfinished tasks, and why I’m learning to prioritize what truly matters (and let go of the rest).

From work demands to personal errands (like decluttering my basement or fixing a TV remote), I’ve realized that not everything needs to be done now. Using tools like Notion, I’ve started organizing my tasks into:

• Daily priorities (what must get done).

• Weekly/Monthly tasks (what can wait).

• The “backlog” (things that matter but aren’t urgent).

This isn’t about perfection—it’s about giving myself permission to breathe. Because when we’re constantly carrying the weight of undone tasks, it affects our mental space, our sleep, and even our joy.

Key takeaways: ✅ Work smarter, not harder: Focus on true priorities (at work and home). ✅ The art of letting go: Some tasks can wait—and that’s okay. ✅ Self-compassion: Your worth isn’t tied to your productivity.

P.S. What’s one thing you’re giving yourself permission to postpone or drop this week? Hit reply and tell me—I’d love to cheer you on!

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

If I had to pick one book that shaped my entire year, it would be Atomic Habits by James Clear. In this episode of The Pulse, I’m sharing why this book became my 2025 game-changer—and how its lessons helped me build better habits, break the bad ones, and make progress without burnout.

I spent almost a year reading (and re-reading!) this book, and here’s what made it stand out:

• Practical, actionable advice: No fluff—just clear steps to make habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying.

• The 2-Minute Rule: How tiny actions (like reading one page or rolling out my yoga mat) turned into consistent routines.

• Grace for imperfection: Why it’s okay to start small, fail, and adjust—without guilt.

This isn’t just a book review—it’s a love letter to slow, sustainable growth. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, productivity, or mindset, Atomic Habits gives you the tools to start where you are and build from there.

P.S. I’d love to hear: What’s the one book that changed your year? Reply and let me know!

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if one tiny moment of pure joy—just for you—could transform your entire day? In this episode of The Pulse, I’m sharing a simple but powerful practice I’ve embraced for years: doing one thing per day that’s solely for my joy. No goals. No productivity. No apologies.

From sipping hot chocolate during a Harry Potter marathon to running outside with my dog just because it feels fun, these moments aren’t about achievement—they’re about reclaiming my time, my happiness, and my peace. Especially during busy or tough seasons, these little pockets of joy act like a reset button. They remind me that I’m more than my to-do list, and so are you.

In this episode, I’ll share:

• Why "just for me" moments matter (even if they seem silly).

• How to carve out joy in 5 minutes—or less.

• Why these moments are especially powerful in winter (hello, shorter days and cozy vibes!).

• My challenge to you: Try one joyful, expectation-free moment today. No pressure—just pure you.

Because life isn’t just about the big wins. It’s about the small, sparkly moments that make it all worthwhile.

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Who says you have to wait until January 1st to start your 2026 goals? In this episode of The Pulse, I flip the script on traditional New Year’s resolutions and shares why starting now—even in small, intentional ways—can set you up for long-term success.

From avoiding the January slump to building momentum with mini-habits, I explain how kicking off just one personal goal, one professional goal, and one quick win before December 31st can transform your mindset and energy for the year ahead. I am revealing my own early-start strategy, including improving my German (10 minutes at a time!) and decluttering my cellar (a quick win for instant motivation).

Learn how to beat procrastination, build consistency, and enter 2026 feeling ahead—without burning out. Because why wait for a date when you’re ready right now?

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if one word or image could anchor your entire year? In this episode of The Pulse, we explore the power of choosing a personal mantra, word, or visual reminder to guide you through 2026. This isn’t about buzzwords or empty affirmations—it’s about finding a grounding force that keeps you aligned with your intentions, even when life gets overwhelming.

I share my own journey of selecting an image of a colorful, joyful person as her 2026 anchor—a symbol of my versatility, creativity, and acceptance of her multifaceted self. I explain how this simple tool helps me stay centered, reduces self-doubt, and reminds me to embrace who I am right now, not who I think I should be.

Whether it’s a word like "Balance," "Joy," or "Trust," or an image that resonates deeply with you, this episode will inspire you to find your own 2026 power guide. Learn where to place it (your fridge? your nightstand?), how to use it as a compass for decisions, and why it should always be rooted in kindness—not judgment.

Because 2026 isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about how you feel while achieving it.

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Setting goals for 2026 isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about creating a year that feels fulfilling, balanced, and uniquely yours. In this episode of The Pulse, Julie dives into the art of setting SMART goals that align with your intentions, while keeping joy and self-care at the heart of the process.

From health and career milestones to lighthearted fun and daily habits, Julie shares her personal approach to goal-setting: balancing ambition with ease, structure with spontaneity, and achievement with self-compassion. Learn how to break down big goals into manageable steps, create "quick wins" to build momentum, and ensure your goals reflect both your personal growth and the relationships that matter most.

Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or simply someone looking to make 2026 your best year yet, this episode will inspire you to design a year that’s achievable, meaningful, and joyful.

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the key to an incredible 2026 isn’t about ticking off goals, but about how you want to feel? In this reflective episode of The Pulse, I kick off the 2026 mini discussion by challenging the traditional approach to New Year’s resolutions. Instead of focusing on achievements, I invite you to explore the emotions and intentions you want to carry into the new year—because true fulfilment starts with self-trust and embracing who you are.

I share my personal journey of questioning my decisions and the desire to step into 2026 with confidence, not self-doubt. I encourage you to get raw and honest with yourself: What does “amazing” really mean to you? How do you want to feel by the end of next year?

This episode is your permission slip to prioritize your emotional well-being and set intentions that align with your authentic self.

Grab a journal and join me as I guide you through a simple yet powerful exercise to uncover what’s holding you back—and how to create a year that feels as good as it looks.

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The holidays are here—office parties, family gatherings, Christmas markets, and endless to-dos. But what if I told you it’s okay to say no?

In this candid episode of The Pulse, I open up about the overwhelming pressure of the holiday season and why setting boundaries isn’t just necessary—it’s an act of self-care. From juggling work events to family visits and personal traditions, I share my personal rule: no more than two events per week—one work-related, one private. I dive into the guilt of turning down invites, the art of prioritizing your well-being, and why it’s perfectly fine to cancel plans or take a breather.

Whether you’re traveling to see loved ones or navigating local festivities, this episode is a gentle reminder that you don’t have to do it all. Tune in for practical tips on managing holiday stress, embracing imperfection, and giving yourself permission to slow down.

Podmas Day 2: Because sometimes, the best gift you can give is time—for yourself.

Thank you for being a part of "The Pulse" community. Together, let's continue to thrive, support one another, and live our best lives, both in and out of the workplace. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire, inform, and empower you to live with heart and resilience.

Follow The Pulse on IG: The Pulse Podcast

My Website: www.juliehalbert.com

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities represented or any other individuals associated with the podcast. The content provided is based on personal experiences and perspectives and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

Licensed Music: The Light from Within – Howard Harper-Barnes (Epidemic Sound).
License: DL-chkb-c2mf7qwzky. Authorized for use in this podcast.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.