Logo

    7 Underrated Habits for a Better Life (and 7 Overrated Ones Too)

    en-usApril 17, 2024
    What are Mark Manson's views on goal fixation?
    How does Mark Manson define self-care beyond indulgence?
    Why is flexibility important in pursuing happiness?
    What role does community play in individual well-being?
    How does the therapist-patient relationship impact therapy success?

    Podcast Summary

    • Goals can be overrated when we become too fixated on themFocus on actions that lead to goal achievement and be open to quitting goals that no longer serve us

      Goals can be overrated if we become too attached to them and fail to adapt when new information arises. Instead, goals should serve us, not the other way around. Self-care is an important concept, but it's often misunderstood as self-indulgence. The real value of self-care lies in setting boundaries, taking breaks, and prioritizing our well-being. During today's episode, Mark Manson discussed various topics, labeling some as overrated or underrated based on his perspective. He argued that goals, while valuable, can be overrated when we become too fixated on them and fail to adapt when circumstances change. Instead, we should focus on the actions that lead to goal achievement and be open to quitting goals that no longer serve us. Mark also criticized the way self-care is often portrayed as self-indulgence, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing our well-being. Overall, the episode highlighted the importance of flexibility and adapting to changing circumstances in pursuit of happiness and productivity.

    • Self-care is about discipline, not indulgencePrioritize self-discipline for long-term well-being, not short-term pleasure or indulgence

      Self-care is not about indulgence or pleasure, but rather about discipline and taking care of oneself in ways that promote long-term well-being. The speaker criticized practices like "bed rotting" or maximizing romance as misconceptions of self-care. Instead, she emphasized the importance of doing things that may not be enjoyable but are good for you, such as paying bills on time, going to the gym, or even doing chores. The speaker also highlighted the importance of self-discipline as a form of self-love, comparing it to parenting oneself. She also acknowledged that while romance can be nice, it should not be the focus of a relationship and should be seen as a supplement rather than the main component. Overall, the speaker encouraged listeners to prioritize self-discipline and long-term well-being over short-term pleasure or indulgence.

    • Friendships and therapy relationships matter for happiness and well-beingFriendships and good therapy relationships contribute to overall happiness and well-being. Self-improvement and staying informed can help us make the most of everyday activities.

      While romance can be intoxicating and lead us to make questionable decisions, it's our friendships that truly contribute to our overall happiness and well-being. The discussion also highlighted the importance of a good therapist in mental health treatment, but ultimately, the success of therapy depends more on the quality of the therapist-patient relationship than the specific therapeutic approach. The speakers also emphasized the importance of self-improvement and staying informed through resources like listening.com, which can help us make the most of our time and turn everyday activities into productive learning experiences. In essence, it's the relationships we build with others and the knowledge we gain that truly enrich our lives.

    • The importance of finding a good therapistFinding the right therapist can significantly improve therapy outcomes, but it may require trying multiple therapists and investing time and effort.

      The quality of a therapist greatly impacts the effectiveness of therapy, with the best therapists producing ten times the outcomes of average therapists, and some therapists even making things worse. Therefore, it's crucial to find a therapist who specializes in your specific needs and with whom you have a good connection. This may require trying out several therapists and investing time and effort into the therapeutic process. Remember, therapists are not superhuman and cannot magically solve all your problems. Instead, they provide guidance and tools to help you work through your issues. Ultimately, the success of therapy depends on the effort and commitment you put into it.

    • The importance of simple pleasures and activitiesEngaging in simple pleasures and activities, like dancing or listening to music, can significantly improve mental well-being and be just as effective as pharmaceutical interventions in treating depression.

      While having a sense of purpose in life is important, not everything in life needs to be meaningful or purposeful all the time. Simple pleasures and activities, such as dancing or listening to music, can have a profound impact on mental well-being, and it's okay to acknowledge and enjoy the mundane moments in life. A recent meta-analysis found that physical activity, including dancing, is just as effective as pharmaceutical intervention in treating depression and improving mental well-being. So, strive for purpose, but don't overlook the importance of simple pleasures and activities in maintaining overall happiness and well-being.

    • Simple actions for improved wellbeingDancing, expressing gratitude, focusing on local sources of purpose, and good skin care can contribute to better wellbeing. Over-relying on politics may lead to disappointment. Try OS01 peptide from OneSkin for improved skin health.

      While there are various ways to improve our wellbeing, some simple and seemingly insignificant actions, like dancing or expressing gratitude, can have positive effects. Meanwhile, over-reliance on politics as a source of connection and meaning can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment. Instead, focusing on localized and controllable sources of purpose can bring greater fulfillment. Additionally, good skin care is essential for aging gracefully. The OS01 peptide from OneSkin, a first-of-its-kind clinically proven solution, can help minimize aging cells for smoother, firmer skin and fewer age spots. Overall, it's important to find balance in various aspects of life, from self-care and movement to expectations and sources of meaning.

    • Understanding complex issues and mental healthHistorical perspective, journaling, and self-reflection can promote positive growth and improve mental health amidst complex societal issues

      Issues in society are more complex than they seem and consuming news constantly can negatively impact mental health. A historical perspective can provide valuable context and help us realize that current problems are not new or unique. Journaling is a safe and generally helpful practice, but the best journals are those that encourage self-reflection and confronting uncomfortable situations. It's important to remember that simple solutions and hype often don't lead to significant change. Instead, taking a step back, gaining perspective, and engaging in meaningful self-reflection can lead to positive growth.

    • Exploring personal growth through journaling and sauna useJournaling offers insights into past experiences and emotions, while saunas promote physical health and longevity. Both practices contribute to personal growth and self-awareness.

      Journaling, particularly journals that delve into personal and emotional experiences, can provide valuable insights and reflections as we age. The musician's example of revisiting old journals to write songs illustrates the potential benefits of documenting our thoughts and feelings. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of saunas for health and longevity, while expressing less enthusiasm for cold plunges due to their inconvenience and maintenance requirements. The combination of saunas and cold plunges has gained popularity in recent years, but the data on cold plunges is less conclusive than that of saunas. Overall, journaling and sauna use are simple yet meaningful practices that can enhance self-awareness and promote physical well-being.

    • Practices like cold plunges and psychedelics have short-term benefits but uncertain long-term effectsWhile some alternative practices can offer temporary benefits, it's crucial to prioritize evidence-based interventions for long-term health and well-being, considering the potential risks and limitations of alternative practices.

      While some practices like cold plunges and psychedelics can provide short-term benefits, such as releasing endorphins and creating a stress response in the body, the long-term data and research on their health effects are not definitive. The speaker emphasizes that these practices should not be considered equivalent to evidence-based interventions, and that the potential risks and limitations should be carefully considered. For instance, cold plunges require consistent maintenance and can be a hassle, while psychedelics, despite their therapeutic potential, should be used under the guidance of trained professionals due to their potent effects. Overall, it's essential to approach these practices with a critical and informed perspective, and to prioritize evidence-based interventions for optimal health and well-being.

    • Approaching Psychedelics with CautionPsychedelics offer benefits for mental health issues, but their use should be approached with caution for high-functioning individuals. Be aware of negative reactions, decreased efficacy, placebo effect, and selection bias in research.

      Psychedelics can offer significant benefits for individuals dealing with serious mental health issues, but for those who are already high-functioning, the use of psychedelics should be approached with caution and primarily viewed as a hobby. It's essential to be aware of the small but significant number of individuals who experience intense negative reactions to psychedelics, and the potential for decreased efficacy as more research is conducted and the interventions become more widely used. Additionally, the placebo effect and selection bias are important factors to consider when interpreting the results of psychedelic research. Overall, psychedelics hold great promise for mental health treatment, but it's crucial to approach their use with a well-informed perspective.

    • Selling Across Channels with Shopify and the Importance of CommunityShopify provides tools for setting up, managing, and scaling a business across various channels, while religious communities offer a unique environment for forming bonds and connections.

      Shopify offers a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to sell across various channels, including social media platforms. It provides essential tools for setting up, managing, and scaling a store, making it accessible for entrepreneurs without the need for expensive tech expertise. Additionally, the platform offers reliable 24/7 support. On a different note, there's ongoing debate about the role of religion in contributing to happiness, better relationships, and overall well-being. While some argue that religious communities cause these positive outcomes, others suggest that happier individuals are more likely to be attracted to religious communities. Regardless, the importance of community and connection in today's society is undeniable. Places like religious camps offer a unique environment where people come together and form bonds, providing a respite from the often harsh realities of adolescence. Even for those who don't subscribe to religious beliefs, the sense of community and acceptance can be invaluable.

    • Exploring the impact of practices and beliefs on individualsReligion and gratitude have varying effects, no single practice works for everyone, keep an open mind and experiment to find what works best for you.

      Different practices and beliefs, such as religion and gratitude, can have varying effects on people. Religion, as a part of human nature, can lead to happiness but also negatively impact individuals when applied to extreme or harmful contexts. Gratitude, while beneficial for some, may not resonate with others. Ultimately, it's essential to understand that no single practice or intervention works for everyone, and it's crucial to try new things and adapt when they stop being effective. So, keep an open mind, experiment, and remember that there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Nothing works for everybody all the time, and that's okay. Keep exploring and finding what works best for you.

    Recent Episodes from The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Podcast

    Resistance, Self-Sabotage, and What It Really Takes to Accomplish Dreams (ft. Steven Pressfield)

    Resistance, Self-Sabotage, and What It Really Takes to Accomplish Dreams (ft. Steven Pressfield)

    Steven Pressfield was 52 years old when he published his first hit novel, The Legend of Bagger Vance. Prior to that, he wrote tirelessly for decades in obscurity, supporting himself with odd jobs along the way.


    After writing several more novels and movie scripts, he distilled all of his wisdom into The War of Art, his now-famous treatise on the grinding process of creativity.


    Now in his 80s, Steven looks back on his work and life with a clear-eyed view of what it truly means to make it as a creative professional. In this episode, he explains why he persisted writing for decades with little to show for it, how he compensated for his own lack of talent, why creating great art is actually a grueling war fought within the artist’s own mind, and much, much more.


    Enjoy.


    Steven’s new book, The Daily Pressfield


    All of Steven Pressfield's Books


    Get up to 43% off your order of MUD/WTR at mudwtr.com/idgaf


    Use code IDGAF to get 10% Marek Health services at marekhealth.com/idgaf


    Get 10% off your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/idgaf


    Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: markmanson.net/breakthrough

    5 Ways to Be Self-Disciplined Without Making Yourself Miserable

    5 Ways to Be Self-Disciplined Without Making Yourself Miserable

    We often think self-discipline requires massive action and a lot of pain and sacrifice—but the reality is a lot more boring. Today, we tackle some common misconceptions about self-discipline, arguing that real change comes from setting up your environment for success, not grinding through endless struggle.


    We explore the hidden dangers of romanticizing pain and why true self-discipline is more about boring consistency than epic feats of endurance. Hopefully, this episode challenges you to rethink how you approach your goals and habits. If you're ready to stop punishing yourself and start seeing real, lasting change, you won’t want to miss this.


    Use code IDGAF to Get 20% off your one-time purchase of supplements at https://livemomentous.com


    Get your first bag of Trade coffee for free when you sign up for a subscription at https://tradecoffee.com/idgaf


    Use code IDGAF to get 15% off your first purchase of skincare products at https://OneSkin.co


    Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help you be a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough

    Bonus Q&A: Facing Regrets, Hustle Culture, Living with ADHD, and More

    Bonus Q&A: Facing Regrets, Hustle Culture, Living with ADHD, and More

    It’s bonus episode time! Today, I’m doing a Q&A with questions you’ve all submitted. We dive into how I’ve changed my mind, bad habits, regrets, dead dreams, advice to young people, meditation, and a whole lot more.

    Submit your questions for future podcasts in the comments or email them to podcast@markmanson.net.

    Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help you be a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough

    How To Be Successful in a World That Wasn’t Built for You (ft. Astronaut Cady Coleman)

    How To Be Successful in a World That Wasn’t Built for You (ft. Astronaut Cady Coleman)

    How do you find your way in a world where even when you do everything right, the odds keep getting stacked against you? My guest today, Cady Coleman, shares how she navigated the male-dominated fields of science, the Air Force, and NASA, breaking down barriers with tenacity and grace.


    From her time on the International Space Station to the release of her first book, Sharing Space, Cady’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of mission, adaptability, and the unwavering belief in one’s potential, even when the world around you says otherwise.


    Check it out.


    Control body odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code IDGAF at shopmando.com! #mandopod


    Start selling online and get your first month of Shopify for just $1 at shopify.com/idgaf


    Cady’s Book, Sharing Space: https://www.amazon.com/Sharing-Space-Astronauts-Mission-Wonder/dp/0593494016


    Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will make you a slightly less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough

    6 Ways to Stop Giving a F*ck

    6 Ways to Stop Giving a F*ck

    We all wish we gave fewer f*cks in our lives, but wanting to and doing it are two different things. If you've read my book, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, then you know that not giving a f*ck doesn't mean you don't care about anything—it means deliberately choosing what you give a f*ck about and ignore the rest.

    In this episode, we dive into the realities of not giving f*ck, the good and the bad. We talk about why there will never be a time when you're completely free from judgement by others. Why being "normal"—whatever that means—is not something to aspire to, nor is wanting to be liked by everyone. How criticism is a part of life you can't escape—but not all criticism is created equal. And a whole lot more.

    Check it out.

    Get 10% off your first month of therapy at Better Help: https://betterhelp.com/idgaf

    Use the promo code IDGAF to get 20% off your first order of supplements at Momentous: https://www.livemomentous.com/

    Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough, to be a slightly less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough

    It's Never Too Late to Turn Your Life Around (ft. Brandon Novak)

    It's Never Too Late to Turn Your Life Around (ft. Brandon Novak)

    Brandon Novak showed all the signs of becoming a highly successful, rebellious young man. He was a professional skateboarder in his early teens, rubbing elbows with the likes of Bucky Lasek and Tony Hawk. In his late teens and twenties, he was a regular on world-famous TV shows like Viva La Bam and Jackass.

    But drugs and alcohol were always lurking in the shadows for Novak, and he soon fell head-first into the dark trap of his addictions. He endured bouts of homelessness, committed every petty crime you could imagine, and even resorted to sex work to feed his addictions.

    The stats would suggest Brandon Novak shouldn’t be sober right now. He probably shouldn’t even be alive. But not only is he alive with 9 years of sobriety under his belt, he’s found a deep and meaningful purpose in his life, running his own rehab centers and taking care of his elderly mother.

    This is the hilarious and heartening story of how Brandon Novak turned it all around. And trust me, if he can do it, so can anyone else.

    Use promo code IDGAF to get 20% your Cuts clothing order at https://cutsclothing.com

    Use promo code IDGAF to get 15% off your order at OneSkin at https://oneskin.co

    Get 10% off your supplements order at Market Health at https://marekhealth.com/idgaf

    Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough, to be a slightly less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough

    The Backwards Law: How to Get More by Doing Less

    The Backwards Law: How to Get More by Doing Less

    There are certain areas in life where trying harder only makes things worse. Trying to prove how likable and confident you are only makes you feel more unlikable and less confident. Trying to make someone love you only makes you feel more unlovable.

    The solution to this conundrum is what’s known as “The Backwards Law”.

    Simply put, The Backwards law states that desiring a positive experience is itself a negative experience, while accepting a negative experience is a positive experience.

    In this episode, Drew and I talk about five areas of life where doing less can actually reap massive benefits.

    Enjoy.

    Get your first month of Shopify for only $1 at https://shopify.com/idgaf

    Use the code IDGAF to get 20% off your one-time purchase of supplements at https://LiveMomentous.com

    Sign up for Your Next Breakthrough, a weekly newsletter that will make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough

    Are Smartphones Really Ruining Our Lives… Or Is It Something Else? (ft. Jonathan Haidt)

    Are Smartphones Really Ruining Our Lives… Or Is It Something Else? (ft. Jonathan Haidt)

    Is everything going to hell in a handcart because of smartphones and social media? In this episode, I sit down with NYU professor and bestselling author Jonathan Haidt to tackle this burning question.

    Dr. Haidt makes a compelling case that our addiction to these devices is wreaking havoc on society, from mental health crises to political turmoil. But is it really all the smartphone’s fault? I'm not so sure it's quite that simple, so I wanted to dive deeper into the nuances.

    We get into the nitty-gritty and I challenge some of Haidt’s claims, exploring questions like, why do these issues seem to hit the English-speaking world the hardest? Is this another moral panic, or is this time really different? We also discuss the differences in how smartphones affect various demographics and cultures, and why understanding these distinctions is crucial. Plus, we explore Jonathan’s practical and highly sensible recommendations for parents, educators, and policymakers.

    Whether you’re a skeptic or a die-hard believer, this episode will make you rethink your relationship with the technology in our pockets.

    Let's do this.

    Start your new morning ritual & get up to 43% off your @MUDWTR by going to ⁠mudwtr.com/IDGAF⁠! #mudwtrpod

    Get 10% off your first month of therapy at BetterHelp.com/IDGAF

    How I Lost 60 Pounds and Started Giving A F*ck About My Health

    How I Lost 60 Pounds and Started Giving A F*ck About My Health

    Over the past 5 years, I’ve completely changed my relationship to my health. Prior to that, I was overweight, pre-diabetic, and having chest pains in my mid-30s. I thought maybe eating a salad once a week and going for a run every now then would take care of it. I was wrong.

    Since then, I’ve lost 60 pounds (~30kg). I now enjoy exercising regularly and I eat healthy and nutritious foods. My daily life is much more physically active and I get way better sleep. I’m happy with my health now—but it took a long time to get here.

    I’m not going to share a bunch of workout routines or complicated diets. What worked for me might not work for you. But I can share what I went through to get here in the hopes that you, too, might change how you think about your health and take it more seriously. Because at the end of the day, your health is definitely something you should give a f*ck about.

    Use the code IDGAF to get 20% off your first one-time purchase of supplements at livemomentous.com

    Life-Changing Insights From Traveling To Every Country In The World (ft. Drew Binsky)

    Life-Changing Insights From Traveling To Every Country In The World (ft. Drew Binsky)

    Drew Binsky is a fearless traveler who's seen it all. From chatting with North Koreans in their homeland to dodging bombings in Somalia and volunteering in Syria in the middle of a civil war, Drew's adventures are nothing short of incredible. He's been to every country in the world, witnessing the most dangerous places and surviving a few close calls. Yet, his experiences have led him to a surprising conclusion: most people, most of the time, are good. Even in the direst circumstances, Drew finds that human resilience can prevail.

    In our conversation, Drew shares why he's drawn to war zones and failed states, revealing the profound lessons he's learned from them. We discuss why you should never judge a country by the news you hear about it, how the most impactful trips are often the most challenging, and where to find the friendliest people on Earth. Drew also offers his top travel tips on spontaneity, connecting with locals, and what he looks for on his travel adventures. It's a deep dive into the heart of travel and human nature that might just inspire you to see the world a little differently.

    Get 10% your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/idgaf

    Let Rocket Money cancel your unwanted subscriptions at RocketMoney.com/idgaf

    Related Episodes

    #309 BITESIZE | How to Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit | Mel Robbins

    #309 BITESIZE | How to Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit | Mel Robbins

    CAUTION: This podcast episode contains swearing.


    By doing this one simple habit each morning you could experience transformative effects in your life.


    Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my weekly podcast for your mind, body, and heart.  Each week I’ll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests.


    Today’s clip is from episode 220 of the podcast with the wonderful Mel Robbins.


    Mel is one of the most sought-after motivational speakers in the world and, in this clip, she explains how to take control of your life with her ‘High 5 Habit’.


    Thanks to our sponsor http://www.athleticgreens.com/livemore


    Show notes and the full podcast are available at drchatterjee.com/220


    Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/3oAKmxi. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.

     

    Follow me on instagram.com/drchatterjee


    Follow me on facebook.com/DrChatterjee


    Follow me on twitter.com/drchatterjeeuk

     

    DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website. 



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    So I'm an Empath... Now What?!?

    So I'm an Empath... Now What?!?

    Don't miss Part 2 of this intriguing conversation of two Empaths dealing with life before they understood what was happening to them. Hear the fascinating dynamics of how Empaths are wired and experience the world along with their transition from disempowerment to Empowered Empath. Tools, Tips, and Techniques to Educate, Equip, and Empower you in Authentcially Living Life Your way!

    #195 How To Find Inspiration Everywhere You Look with Light Watkins

    #195 How To Find Inspiration Everywhere You Look with Light Watkins

    CAUTION: This episode contains mild swearing.


    My guest today is internationally acclaimed meditation teacher, speaker and author, Light Watkins. I first spoke to him back on episode 23 of the podcast, when I know he inspired many of you to start a practice of meditation by breaking down common misconceptions and stripping away some of the rules and rigidity around meditation. So we begin this episode by talking about how our own approaches to meditation have evolved. We discuss the importance of consistency and how meditation is a catalyst for change even when you’re not meditating.


    Light explains how he committed to sending out a Daily Dose of Inspiration – a positive story, anecdote, or learning - to his email list back in 2016. Now, some of these emails have come together in Light’s latest book, Knowing Where To Look: 108 Daily Doses Of Inspiration. We talk about how he managed this huge undertaking – by approaching writing in the same way he meditates: consistently. The process quickly showed him that it’s possible to find inspiration everywhere you look. It trained him to look at life through a different lens and find life’s silver linings. In this conversation, Light shares how we can all find the inspiration that is all around us by training ourselves to look for it.


    We talk about how you can learn to trust your inner guide by starting small - Light calls it his ‘divine GPS’, a power greater than himself that’s showing him the way to go. Whether you believe in a higher power or not, just being open to the idea that there’s a different way to view every situation is a powerful skill to cultivate. Think, ‘Why is this happening for me’ not ‘Why is it happening to me’, he advises.


    This conversation is full of inspiring anecdotes and advice that I hope will give you a new perspective. 


    Thanks to our sponsors:


    http://www.vivobarefoot.com/uk/livemore


    http://www.athleticgreens.com/livemore


    Show notes available at https://drchatterjee.com/195


    Follow me on https://www.instagram.com/drchatterjee

     

    Follow me on https://www.facebook.com/DrChatterjee

     

    Follow me on https://twitter.com/drchatterjeeuk


    DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Did You Take Action?

    Did You Take Action?
    Have you taken steps towards achieving your dreams today?

    Taking action towards our dreams is a fundamental step in transforming them from mere ideas into reality. Every journey towards achieving something meaningful begins with the courage to take the first step, and then, the perseverance to continue walking the path. Delaying action, often referred to as procrastination, is one of the biggest obstacles that hinders our progress. It's easy to get caught up in the comfort of planning and dreaming without ever moving into the phase of execution. However, dreams remain intangible until we decide to act upon them.

    The importance of not delaying action cannot be overstated. When we postpone taking the necessary steps towards our goals, we not only lose valuable time but also potentially miss opportunities that might not come around again. The world around us is constantly changing, and windows of opportunity can close as quickly as they open. By delaying, we also allow room for doubt and fear to settle in, which can further paralyze our ability to act. Action, on the other hand, breeds confidence and clarity. With each step taken, we learn more about ourselves, our desires, and the realities of bringing our dreams to fruition. This knowledge is invaluable and can only be gained through experience.

    Moreover, taking action is essential for maintaining momentum. Starting is often the hardest part, but once we overcome the initial resistance, each subsequent step becomes easier. Action creates a positive feedback loop where progress fuels motivation, and motivation fuels further action. This momentum can carry us through challenges and help us to persevere when the journey becomes difficult.

    In conclusion, taking action towards our dreams is crucial. It transforms the abstract into the tangible, opens doors to opportunities, and sets in motion the forces necessary for achieving our goals. We must resist the temptation to delay, understanding that the perfect time to start is now. Every moment spent in inaction is a moment lost on the path to realizing our potential. Let us embrace the present with determination and take the steps needed to turn our dreams into reality.


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/confidence-self-esteem-podcast--3128218/support.

    Guest: Dr. Ricki Pollycove, OB-GYN and an expert on women’s health. Dr. Pollycove will talk about the latest research and news on women’s health and sexual well-being–information that will assist you in improving your relationship with your body.

    Guest: Dr. Ricki Pollycove, OB-GYN and an expert on women’s health. Dr. Pollycove will talk about the latest research and news on women’s health and sexual well-being–information that will assist you in improving your relationship with your body.
    About my guest, in her words: My career is focused on healthy aging in women, including hormone replacement therapy using primarily bio-identical hormones, and reducing risks for functional loss and dependency. I specialize in the endocrinology of menopause and disease risk reduction as reflected in individual patient care options and clinical management decision-making, with an emphasis on breast cancer early detection, diagnosis, treatment options and ongoing cancer survivor care. Further insight into the depth of our need to nurture ourselves throughout a woman’s life is fueled by having delivered over 1,500 babies in addition to being a mother myself. From babyhood to adulthood, we all deserve compassionate, kind and patient attention to our individual needs. I have committed to becoming more active in the politics of medicine, hoping to preserve the very special nature of the physician patient relationship as well as promoting greater collegiality through all sectors of health care. I am a member of the following professional organizations: American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG). Fellow, 1984 to present. American Society for Reproductive Medicine, 1983 to present North American Menopause Society, 1992 to present American Society of Breast Disease, 1994 to present California Medical Association: San Francisco Medical Society, 1981 to present. Editorial Board, 1998-present. Editor in Chief, 1999- 2001. The American Medical Writers Association, 1994-2000. My academic appointments include: Volunteer Clinical faculty at UC San Francisco (Women’s health, gynecology and female sexuality courses) former faculty at the University of Arizona School of Medicine (associate professor for the “Current issues in women and children’s health” course) and adjunct teaching in the Integral Health Studies Program of the California Institute of Integral Studies (see www.CIIS.edu master’s program in Integral Health). As part of community outreach, I enjoy appearing on television, as a regular women’s health guest expert on local and national television and radio programs as well as public lectures. Professional continuing education seminars for doctors, nurses, physician assistants and psychologists continue to be a regular part of my professional activities I serve on the non-profit Sophia Project Board of trustees, devoted to caring for near-homeless mothers and children in West Oakland and the larger Bay Area. I also serve on the Board of the California Institute of Integral Studies, a University offering bachelor’s degree completion, Masters and PhDs (see www.CIIS.edu). For 15 years I served on the board of the Patient Assistance Foundation whose job it is to raise money for health education, social services and financial counseling for those in need. My hobbies include savory cooking and baking, having held a job as pastry chef assistant during college and never losing my enthusiasm for good organic home cooking. I also enjoy music (when I can practice, I play viola in chamber music groups and sing soprano), reading a diversity of philosophical and historical writers, bike riding and hiking to explore nature and the world. My books include The Pocket Guide to Bioidentical Hormones, Alpha Press 2010, and Mother Nurture, with Rick and Jan Hanson, Penguin, 2002.