What if the pursuit of happiness is NOT the path to greater life satisfaction? What if being more productive and getting more done isn’t actually the way to get ahead?

In this episode, I'm revisiting my conversation with author Oliver Burkeman about some of the ways in which we might want to re-examine our relationship to goals, happiness, and the things that are most important to us.

This is sometimes a bit painful. because so much of it has to do with confronting some of the hard limits that we like to pretend don’t exist. But, as you’ll hear, there is ultimately a profound relief and freedom to be found in facing finitude.

Key Takeaways

1. Try to find satisfaction in the journey toward your goals, rather than postponing fulfillment until they are achieved​​.
2. Cultivating your ability to be present to everyday, even mundane, moments can lead to a deeper appreciation of life as it unfolds.
3. Understand that every choice has its consequences, and it’s impossible to avoid negative outcomes entirely.
4. Some of the most meaningful experiences in life are not the result of meticulous planning or pursuit but unexpected and unplanned.
5. Being present is a skill that can be practiced in everyday situations like waiting in line or working in the office​​–and not just on the meditation cushion or yoga mat.

Mentioned in this Episode

Upcoming Live Events for Meditations for Mortals

The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking

4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals

50K Mile Tune-up Listening Guide and Workbook

Interested in having Monica present at your next live or virtual event? Learn more.

Ready for some time travel? Your Current Self was once your Future Self. And I’m guessing that Past You had big plans for Current You (previously, Future You).

In this episode, we’re exploring how our lives and habits have and haven’t evolved in the ways we expected or hoped, and how we can use that information to our (current and future) advantage.

Plus: It’s time to open a Change Academy time capsule!

Highlights

- How to make the future feel more vivid—and more motivating

- A journaling prompt that can shift your behavior right now

- What it means when your letter to the future is full of “I hope…”

- Assessing whether your present actions align with your desired legacy

Mentioned

The Science of Why We Doomscroll by Emily Falk (New York Times gift link)

What We Value: The Neuroscience of Choice and Change, by Emily Falk

Letter to my Future Self Worksheet

Futureme.org (send yourself an email in the future)

Interested in having Monica present at your next live or virtual event? Learn more.

In this final episode of our Business of Being Well series, wellness strategist and speaker Cassie Christopher joins me to explore how insights from the world of business—especially sales and marketing—can help wellness professionals become more effective, persuasive, and impactful.

Highlights

• How the "what" isn’t nearly as important as the "why"
• A simple messaging shift that can dramatically boost participation
• How to build authority and credibility in skeptical or high-stress environments
• How to reframe selling as an act of service, not manipulation
• The one business skill every wellness pro should master (hint: it’s not spreadsheets)

Mentioned in this Episode

You Can't Pour from an Empty Cup: Self-Compassion for a Thriving Workforce (Cassie's upcoming session at HERO Forum II)

Cassie Christopher, Corporate Wellness Speaker

The Business of Being Well: a Special Series

Join our mailing list

Interested in having Monica present at your next live or virtual event? Learn more.