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So many of us are quick to say things like, “I need to be kinder to myself,” and I think we truly believe that. But the minute we fail to get something done, lose track of time, or struggle, our inner voice turns harsh. For us high achievers, especially, this is an unfortunate natural reaction. The problem is that we don’t realize how much that critical inner voice is costing us. This week, episode 301 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why self-compassion matters more than you think!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving into why the “try harder” mentality often backfires, and I give you actionable steps to take right now to practice self-compassion as the necessary foundation for true productivity and emotional regulation.

Key takeaways:

• Self-compassion isn’t a vague feeling; it’s a system of self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness.
• While self-awareness is the ultimate productivity tool, self-compassion is the environment that makes those tools work.
• Your brain interprets self-criticism as a threat, triggering increased cortisol and bodily tension. In contrast, self-compassion helps regulate your nervous system.
• Self-compassion is not about lowering your standards but about being honest without being cruel, making it more likely that you’ll take responsibility and repair mistakes.
• Self-compassion is a skill that can be practiced and developed over time, even if it feels unnatural at first.

Self-compassion isn't about being nice to yourself when things are going perfectly; it’s about how you respond in the moments you lose momentum or fail to meet the plan. This week, try to simply notice your inner dialogue without trying to fix it. Awareness without judgment is your first step toward a more resilient life.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

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Ep 189: Why Compassion is Essential to Be More Productive

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Productivity is best when it’s shame-free and done in a way that honors your life. That is the message I started this podcast with, and it remains true 300 episodes later. Yes, you read that right. Today we’re celebrating 300 episodes of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast. And joining me to commemorate this landmark episode is my friend and podcast producer, Alesia Galati, as we flip the script and she interviews me. In our conversation, we reflect on my journey of podcasting and how listeners can make the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast work for their lives.

Alesia and I cover the following topics:

• Expressing gratitude for the achievements this podcast has hit.
• Reflecting on the impact of this podcast through listener reviews.
• Taking a look at how this podcast has evolved and where it’s headed in the future.
• How to use this podcast as a tool for productivity (without the overwhelm).
• Five things you may not know about me.

As we celebrate 300 episodes–and 10 years of Positively Productive Systems, the business behind the podcast–I want to thank you, because you are what makes this possible. Whether you’ve been here from the start or just started listening, your support means the world to me.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

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For more episodes and playlists, visit the podcast page of my website!

Ep 299: 10 Lessons to Celebrate 10 Years of Positive Productivity

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In honor of a huge milestone —10 years of the business behind the podcast—I am reflecting on the last 10 years and the conversations I've had with clients, listeners, and my fellow multi-passionate entrepreneurs. So today in episode 299 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, instead of focusing on one topic, I’m celebrating by sharing 10 lessons of positive productivity that I’ve learned over the last decade.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m focusing on 10 lessons that connect to the same theme: productivity isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. You must find what works for you and honor that.

The 10 lessons I cover in this episode include:

1. Productivity is personal, not universal.
2. Fluctuating energy is normal. Plan for it.
3. Good enough beats perfect.
4. Decluttering is a whole-life practice.
5. Rest is not a reward; it’s a requirement.
6. Joy fuels productivity.
7. Shame is the worst motivator.
8. Systems don’t need to be complicated.
9. Let the season you’re in guide your choices.
10. Start where you are, grow as you go.

I want to celebrate with you! Find me on social media and message me, sharing what you’re celebrating today—big or small—and if this episode resonated with you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or a rating on Spotify to help others join this important conversation.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

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If you’ve listened to the podcast before, you know that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to productivity. So if you feel like you’re constantly fighting against your own brain, forcing yourself to use productivity systems that just don’t stick, and feeling overwhelmed in trying to be disciplined, you’ve likely been trying to operate in systems that weren’t designed for your unique wiring. This week, on episode 298 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am continuing my special series guiding you through my Positively Productive Toolkit and talking about how your strengths and personality can be used to your productivity advantage.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share why self-awareness is your number one productivity tool and outline how you can use my Assessments Workbook to help you quit forcing strategies that don’t fit and start choosing the habits and tools that support you.

The assessments I cover in this episode include:

• The Big Five (OCEAN): Think of this as your trait blueprint, measuring 5 broad traits (Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism) on a spectrum.
• The Four Tendencies: This framework by Gretchen Rubin categorizes you as an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel based on how you handle inner and outer expectations, revealing your natural motivation style.
• VIA Strengths: Unlike performance-based tests, this identifies your top character strengths and uncovers which qualities you naturally express to help you lean into what is already strong and meaningful within you.
• 16 Personalities: Considered a modern version of the Myers-Briggs test, this assesses how you instinctively think, relate, and connect with the world.

Your strengths, personality, and tendencies are not obstacles to overcome. Rather, they are your greatest advantages. Stop trying to fit into someone else's system and start designing a life that fits you.

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

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Ep 1: The #1 Tool to Achieve Productivity

Ep 88: Play to Your Strengths with Julia de'Caneva

Ep 181: How to Improve Your Productivity Using the Four Tendencies

Ep 267: How the Big 5 Personality Quiz Helps You Achieve More

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Many of us struggle with the guilt of taking time for ourselves, often viewing self-care as a luxury we can only afford once everything else is done. But here’s the truth: when we neglect ourselves, we welcome exhaustion, resentment, and burnout. This week, on episode 297 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am continuing my special series guiding you through my Positively Productive Toolkit, with the key to self-care: the Joy List.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving into my Joy List, reframing self-care not as an indulgence, but as essential maintenance for your mind and body, helping you map your way back to yourself through the science of positive emotions and the art of “compassionate productivity.”

Key takeaways:

• Self-Care as Energy Maintenance: Why joy is a biological necessity to expand your mental lens, foster creativity, and help you recover from stress faster.
• The Science of Nervous System Regulation: How small "glimmers" of joy act as cues to shift you out of "fight or flight" and into a state where you can solve problems with clarity.
• The Overlap of Values and Joy: Whether you value connection, beauty, or freedom, identifying specific joyful activities makes your values tangible and actionable.
• The Sliding-Scale Approach: Three levels of joy so you can practice self-care, no matter how busy you are.

Your joy is not a frivolous "extra", it’s the fuel that keeps you whole. This week, start by identifying three quick ways you can sprinkle joy into your day. Whether it’s listening to a favorite song or taking three deep breaths outside, notice how your energy shifts when you choose yourself.

Haven’t downloaded your Positively Productive Toolkit yet? You can find it at positivelyproductive.com/PLPKit

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 241: Why Being Cozy Can Make You More Productive

Ep 204: Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley

Ep 296: Core Values: A Foundation of Sustainable Productivity

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So many of us struggle with “productivity shame”-- the feeling that we’re failing because we can’t stay consistent. Maybe our systems and schedules look good on paper, but leave us feeling exhausted, guilty, or burnt out. The truth? Our daily actions are in a constant tug-of-war with our souls. This week, on episode 296 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am kicking off a special series guiding you through my Positively Productive Toolkit, starting with the foundational element of sustainable productivity: core values.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing how you can identify the fundamental beliefs that guide your behavior and how to use them as a “filter” to sift through the noise of the world.

Key Takeaways:

• Your values are the ultimate decision-maker for feeling grounded (instead of drained) in your efforts.
• Resistance and inconsistency are often linked to a lack of alignment.
• Learn how to narrow a list of ideals into five essential anchor values that represent your most authentic self.
• Shift your perspective from who you “should” be to who you actually are, allowing you to create a life that honors your energy and capacity.

Your productivity should support your life, not the other way around. Haven’t downloaded your Positively Productive Toolkit yet? You can find it at positivelyproductive.com/PLPKit

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 293: Simple Filters to Help You Make Decisions

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Are you already feeling the “New Year, New You” burnout before January is even over? The pressure to set massive resolutions, hit the ground running, and overhaul your entire life on January 1st is a recipe for overwhelm. If you’re feeling more like you need a nap than a marathon, you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. This week on episode 295 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m introducing you to a gentler, sustainable approach so you can start the new year with less stress.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m ditching the concept of an arbitrary date on the calendar that dictates our fresh start and giving you actionable steps to take right now to reach your goals at a pace that actually respects your energy and capacity.

I cover the following topics:

• Embrace the phrase, “start as you mean to go on,” or in other words, choose a starting speed that you can maintain.
• Take an intentional pause to reflect and move forward in the right direction.
• Conduct a self-assessment to understand your energy drains, capacity, and current needs.
• Consider broad intentions over rigid goals to support your overall well-being.

Ready to build a year that actually fits your life? Download my free Productivity Toolkit at positivelyproductive.com/plpkit and follow along as we dive into these workbooks in the coming weeks!

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 291: How Slowing Down Makes You More Productive

Ep 293: Simple Filters to Help You Make Decisions

Ep 239: How to Choose a Word of the Year

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While every year asks so much of us, it seems 2025 has asked us to stretch and adapt more than usual. We’ve had to keep showing up even when things felt uncertain and just downright exhausting. That’s why throughout the year, I’ve encouraged you to rethink what productivity looks like. Because when life is happening in real time, adding more pressure to be productive is a fast track to burnout.

As I reflect on the conversations we had on the podcast this year, what stands out most isn’t any single tip or tool; it’s that we talked about productivity in a way that honors real life. That’s why in episode 294 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am recapping these conversations by sharing my favorite productivity tips for real life.

Key takeaways:

• Your nervous system is part of your productivity system.
• Systems matter more than motivation or willpower.
• Doing less is often the most productive move.
• Shame is the biggest productivity block.
• Presence matters more than output.
• Small, supportive steps create real change.

As you head into the new year, I want you to remember that you don’t need to do more to be successful; you need systems that honor who you are.

You can find all of the supporting episodes in the 2025 Recap Episodes Playlist.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

2025 Recap Episodes Playlist

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