voluntary actions

Jim Pouliopoulos, known to all as “Pouli” is a storyteller, professional speaker, author, and Senior Lecturer and Director of the Professional Sales Program at Bentley University. In July of 2020, his book, “How to be a WELL BEING: Unofficial Rules to LIVE Every Day”, was published by Wiley Publishing. It shares Pouli’s insights on bringing a happiness-first approach to business, education, and life. In his three TEDx Talks, he explores similar concepts and the question of what drives inner motivation and professional success. He is also a certified trainer for “The Art of Brilliance,” a UK-based firm that specializes in training and development to increase workplace wellbeing and personal positivity. He is a currently a Facilitator at Force Management.

He is a self-proclaimed "recovering engineer." After earning two engineering degrees and an MBA, he left the corporate world behind and found true happiness and success as an educator, speaker, facilitator, and author.

Pouli holds an MBA in Marketing from Bentley University, a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from RPI, and a Bachelor’s degree in EE from WPI.

In this conversation with John McMahon, Pouli discusses the importance of happiness in business and life. He explains that happiness is not dependent on external circumstances but rather on our mindset and daily habits. Pouli emphasizes the need to focus on the process rather than the outcome and shares insights on how to minimize the impact of negativity bias. He also introduces the career satisfaction matrix and highlights the importance of finding enjoyment in our work.

HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT

[00:03:23] The gap between expectations and reality affects happiness
[00:09:53] External circumstances should not determine happiness
[00:13:39] Many people dwell on regrets and don't learn from them
[00:17:13] Recognizing when negativity bias impacts our viewpoint
[00:21:33] Importance of empathy and trust in sales conversations
[00:26:01] Burnout from doing something well but not enjoying it
[00:39:21] Gaining knowledge quickly vs. developing skills through practice
[00:49:56] The importance of getting enough sleep
[00:50:58] Focusing on daily actions rather than the end goal
[00:53:39] Solution to many problems

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES

[00:13:39] "Regret has always sort of been this early warning system that you're doing something against what you truly care about." - Jim "Pouli" Pouliopoulos
[00:20:47] "If you just focus on things that are positive on a daily basis, you will be happier." - Jim "Pouli" Pouliopoulos
[00:25:42] "If you do something well, but you don't enjoy doing it, it becomes drudgery." - Jim "Pouli" Pouliopoulos
[00:32:32] "Mastery never means you stop learning." - Jim "Pouli" Pouliopoulos

Learn more about Jim "Pouli" Pouliopoulos through this link.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pouli/

Check out John McMahon’s book here: https://www.amazon.com/Qualified-Sales-Leader-Proven-Lessons/dp/0578895064

Welcome to another episode of Navigate the Day! Today, we delve into the wisdom of Seneca, a Stoic philosopher whose timeless words encourage us to act with true nobility.

Seneca reminds us that nobility lies in voluntary actions, performed willingly and without coercion. It's not about reluctantly going through the motions, but about embracing virtuous deeds with authenticity and moral integrity.

As I reflect on this, I find myself embracing the journey towards greater nobility. My conduct has evolved, becoming more honorable and aligned with my inner values. Key to this transformation is my willingness to understand and empathize with others. I've learned that genuine compassion arises from wanting to do better by my fellow humans, not for external rewards or recognition.

Seneca's wisdom cautions us against performing good deeds merely for social approval or accolades. True virtue comes from an innate desire to do what is right, irrespective of external influences. Being coerced or compelled takes away from the nobility of our actions, and thus, I strive to act out of my genuine desire to be a better person.

Being an atheist, my motivation to be a good person isn't tied to divine punishment or reward. I embrace the notion of doing good for the sake of goodness itself. In doing so, I've noticed a positive change in myself—I feel happier, more at peace, and in harmony with others.

As I journey towards a more virtuous life, I'm reminded that everyone's moral compass is unique. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to nobility. What matters is that each step we take is driven by our own conscious choices, leading us to a life filled with purpose, compassion, and authenticity.

So, let us celebrate the freedom of choice and the power to shape our actions without any external force. Embrace your nobility by living with intention, compassion, and a genuine desire to contribute positively to the world around you. Remember, no one has a gun to your head—it's your own inner compass that guides you towards true nobility. Let us navigate our days with purpose and kindness, making the world a better place, one noble action at a time.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

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