Positively Living®: Shame-Free Productivity Conversations

Text your thoughts and questions!A positive approach is essential no matter what you come up against in life, and cultivating positive thinking can be a lifesaver when dealing with dark times. Please don’t confuse positive thinking with toxic positivity, which denies our struggles. Healthy, positive thinking is a tool that helps us navigate our way through difficult times. This week, episode 248 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to find light when the world feels dark!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share insights on how to use positive psychology to cope with adversity and build resilience, including steps to take to build the tools to help you navigate difficult times. I cover the following topics:The difference between toxic positivity and using positive psychology, which allows you to acknowledge and process your feelings while building healthy coping mechanisms. Defining optimism and hope, which are skills that can be learned and strengthened over time. Six things you can do to cultivate optimism and hope in your life. When the world feels dark, remember that you’re not alone in this journey. By incorporating these positive psychology principles and practical tools into your life, you can discover solutions, find strength in the face of adversity, and ultimately shine a light into the darkness. Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 8: Toxic Positivity with Valerie FriedlanderEp 46: Help Yourself by Helping Others with Jake DohertyEp 114: Harmful Mindset Approaches with Valerie FriedlanderEp 146: 10 Simple Self-Care Ideas [Round Up]Ep 153: Coping with Grief by Giving Back with Lindsay TaylorDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff Z

2/10/25 • 17:40

Text your thoughts and questions!Too often, we go through our days reacting to things that come up, putting out fires, and running on the hamster wheel without knowing how we even got there or how to stop. While this is a well-meaning approach to get by, the result isn’t productivity; it's guilt and stress. There is a different, more effective approach where you work in a way that is best for you and that’s flexible for your current phase of life: intentional action. This week, episode 247 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why being intentional is essential to being productive!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how intentional action, rather than reactive action, leads to greater success and fulfillment and I offer you actionable steps to use this approach so you can boost your productivity and overall well-being. I cover the following topics:Why traditional productivity advice is limiting and doesn’t work for everyone. What it means to take intentional action and the benefits of doing so. Practical steps to take intentional action focusing on what matters to you most.Intentional action is a skill that takes time and practice to develop, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By embracing this approach, you can unlock your true productivity potential and create a life that aligns with your values.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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 61: Why You Must Free Yourself from the Hustle MentalityEp 189: Why Compassion is Essential to Be More Productive Ep 235: When You Must Say No for a Less Stressful LifeDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

2/3/25 • 15:31

Text your thoughts and questions!While there are many systems for decluttering and experts advising you on how to approach clutter, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The key to finding the approach that is best for you is creating your own framework, which is one of the things I help clients do as a coach. I use a 6-step system with the acronym SIMPLE to help declutter your space and do so in a way that will last. This week, episode 246 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about a SIMPLE™ way to reduce clutter and stress!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how my SIMPLE™ system helps you to approach clutter in a way that aligns with your unique needs and goals. I also walk you through the steps to apply this framework to tackle clutter in a sustainable way. I cover the following topics:Examples of how I have helped clients tackle their clutter and lift the mental and emotional weight tied to it. Breaking down the acronym SIMPLE: Set, Identify, Match, Pare, Limit, and Evaluate, using the example of decluttering a kitchen to visualize the process. How you can use this framework to declutter any space in your life, doing it in a way that lasts. Using the SIMPLE™ framework, you can take control of the clutter in your life and create spaces that truly support how you want to live. What space in your life are you going to declutter first? I’d love for you to message me and let me know!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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)[On-demand] Whole-Life Decluttering WorkshopEp 243: How Your Home Office Can Make You More ProductiveEp 244: How to Clear Your Digital ClutterEp 2: Declutter your Life with the SIMPLE™ SystemDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your

1/27/25 • 21:54

Text your thoughts and questions!If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by a packed calendar and even more overwhelmed by trying to add more things to that calendar, incorporating themes into your schedule might just be the solution you need. Themes–though most known for novels and fun parties–play an important part in how we naturally categorize our lives. By assigning overarching themes to your schedule, you can create a simplified approach that's flexible yet focused. This week, episode 245 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about themes: the simple time management trick you need!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how themes can transform your approach to time management and I offer you actionable steps to use this strategy to achieve your goals with greater ease. I cover the following topics:Why traditional scheduling doesn’t work for everyone, especially for neurodiverse. The benefits of using themes to manage your time. Five steps to create themes around your schedule. If you’re ready to give themed time management a try, I encourage you to take the first step. Start with a daily theme, keep it simple, and see how it goes. Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Book a Quickstart Coaching SessionEp 3: Four Steps for Effective Time ManagementEp 83: [Strategy Call] Juggling All the Things with Amanda AckerEp 124: [Strategy Call] Using School Themes to Time Block with Lauren YeeEp 125: [Strategy Call] Follow Up to School Style Time Blocking with Lauren YeeDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

1/20/25 • 19:35

Text your thoughts and questions!We've talked about physical and mental clutter many times on the podcast, but digital clutter is in its own category. It’s one of the more insidious types of clutter because you can't see or feel it. It hides really well and is one of the easiest to collect and forget about. This week, episode 244 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to clear out digital clutter!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how digital clutter, an often overlooked element of the clutter we accumulate, causes stress and delays, and I offer you practical strategies to declutter and regain control of your digital space.I cover the following topics:How digital clutter differs from other forms of clutter. The most common types of digital clutter and where it piles up the most.Practical steps to clear out your digital clutter and maintain it over time.Digital clutter isn’t just visually distracting and stressful; it can literally drain you and your devices. That's adding insult to injury in a world that’s draining enough. 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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Declutter PlaylistDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

1/13/25 • 24:34

Text your thoughts and questions!Whether you have a large, private space or a shared section of a room for a home office or workspace, it’s important to acknowledge how your surroundings impact your productivity. Even the smallest design changes can help you focus and foster creativity. This week, episode 243 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how your home office can make you more productive!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share the importance of tailoring your environment to suit you and your needs and give you practical tips to create a workspace that boosts your productivity and inspires creativity. I cover the following topics:How our environment both affects and reflects our mental space and what we can do about it. The way decluttering and organizing go hand in hand, but are two different things. Eight things to consider when making your home office a more productive space. The biggest takeaway from this episode is to create a space that feels comfortable and meets your individual work style and needs. You want to create a space that is conducive to your work, and the way to do that is to create a space that is a reflection of you. 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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 34: My Caregiving and Clutter StoryEp 204: Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey RileyEp 2: Declutter Your Life with the SIMPLE™ SystemPositively Living Podcast: Declutter PlaylistDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

1/6/25 • 22:18

Text your thoughts and questions!While I’m thrilled to coach you every episode (and will continue to do so), it’s also my goal to equip you with the resources to coach yourself for maximum growth and achievement. Today. I’m doing this through a series of simple yet powerful questions in an unexpected order. This week, episode 242 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about a reverse approach to better achieve your goals!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing the“BE, DO, HAVE” model that will help you define what you truly want and understand the meaning behind your goals. Through examples and practical steps, I walk you through everything you need to know to reverse-engineer your approach to goal setting and personal development. I cover the following topics:How you can apply the “be the change you want to see” approach to your goals by identifying then embodying the qualities, attitudes, and beliefs that align with your vision.How aligned and inspired action in the form of consistent, habitual steps will be a natural course of action when you start what you want to be. Practical tips and next steps you can take to apply this method in your own life. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to first decide who you want to BE. From there, the aligned action will be much easier to implement. And if you’re a fellow multi-passionate, don’t worry–it’s about asking yourself who you want to be next. Choose one to go with, take these steps, and step into the next era of your life. Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 238: The Most Effective Life Coaching Questions to Ask Yourself with Lisa KnellerEp 137: How to Create a Vision Board that WorksEp 225: How to Rebuild a Lost Habit or Create a Better OneEp 15: How to Harness Habits to Achieve Your GoalsDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

12/30/24 • 20:53

Text your thoughts and questions!When you think of productivity, your mind might immediately jump to hustle and grind culture…unless you follow me, of course! But today, I am introducing you to the concept of being cozy AND productive. It may seem like an odd juxtaposition, but it works. And when you stop to think about it and learn the science behind it, it makes sense. This week, episode 241 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why being cozy can make you more productive!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I continue to challenge the hustle culture propaganda that tells us we cannot and should not rest, and I introduce a life principle from Denmark, one of the world’s happiest countries!I cover the following topics:Using Hygge (pronounced “hoo-guh”), the Danish approach to living, to shift our approach, getting things done while being cozy and content. Breaking down the three principles of Hygge: pleasure, presence, and participation, and how each pillar boosts productivity. The scientific reasons why creating a calming, focused work environment and lifestyle cultivates productivity better than a hustle mentality. Four actionable steps you can take to incorporate Hygge principles into your life.Productivity isn't about pushing yourself to the brink of exhaustion. It's about finding a sustainable pace that allows you to thrive. And sometimes, that means embracing coziness even as you work toward your goals.Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Self-Care Podcast PlaylistEp 106: Choose What Energizes You Through Mindfulness with Sarah StecklerEp 108: Mindfulness Practices to Help You Focus with Lindsay CowardEp 204: Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey RileyDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotn

12/23/24 • 20:08

Text your thoughts and questions!With another year coming to a close, you may be feeling ready for a “fresh” start. But before we leave this year behind us, I highly encourage reflection, celebration, and preparation during this time so you can step into the calendar year confidently. This week, episode 240 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the four things you need to do before the year ends!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share two strategic and two specific things you can do to set yourself up for success in the new year and give you actionable steps to take right now to approach these four things in a manageable way. I cover the following topics:Before forging ahead, take the time to pause and reflect on where you’ve been (I include questions to ask yourself as you reflect).Plan where you want to go by visualizing what you want to accomplish and setting aligned goals. Review your finances, spending what you may lose, and setting a realistic budget moving forward. Clear out your physical and digital clutter to make space for what is to come in the new year. By taking the time to do these things, you’ll be setting yourself up for a successful and fulfilling new year. And even if you do just a little bit in each category, the return on investment will be significant. Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Ep 136: Reflections Instead of ResolutionsEp 172: Why the Simple Act of Pausing Will Make You More ProductiveEp 239: How to Choose a Word of the Year Ep 82: The Planning Mindset You Need to Create Your Best Year with Angela HendersonEp 160: Seasonal Planning for Neurodiverse Entrepreneurs with Erik FisherEp 187: How to Figure Out Your Planning Style with Kylie OtaEp 98: The 3 Numbers You Need to Know for Your Business to Thrive with Danielle HaydenEp 9: Motherhood and Money with Janice Pica-SchollDeclutter Podcast Playlist

12/16/24 • 17:27

Text your thoughts and questions!Compassionate, sustainable productivity comes from small steps compounded by way of building habits that work best for us. When it comes to my fellow multi-passionate creatives, caregivers, and neurodiverse clients, it’s essential that we create paths that have authenticity and flexibility built into them. A word of the year does just that. And at a time when we are reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to a new one, now is the perfect time to choose one. This week, episode 239 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to choose a word of the year!In this episode, I share why choosing a word of the year can help you stay in alignment with your goals and I offer you actionable steps and inspiration to choose a word that suits you for the year ahead. Be sure to listen for the following topics:The benefits of a word of the year–how it acts as a filter to help decide which actions will move you closer to your goals, all while keeping you focused and grounded. Questions to ask yourself when choosing a word to guide your year. My personal word of the year choices over the last 10 years that you can get inspiration from when choosing your own (feel free to borrow from my list!)As you explore this practice, feel free to adjust it so it really works for you. It’s meant to be a guide for a season in your life to keep you focused and on track, but where you go is always your choice. 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/The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 137: How to Create a Vision Board That WorksEp 138: Why You Need a Word of the YearEp 139: The Power of Being PresentDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

12/9/24 • 18:56

Text your thoughts and questions!Having a coach is like having a second brain that gives you a different perspective when making decisions to improve your life. This is the reason coaches hire other coaches and why coaching yourself–either in place of hiring a coach or as a supplement in between your coaching sessions–has incredible benefits. Lisa Kneller, a certified insight coach, joins me today to talk about how this DIY approach can work for you. This week, episode 238 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the most effective life coaching questions to ask yourself! Lisa Kneller is a Certified Insight Coach, public speaker, blogger, and podcaster. She helps people recover their identity, discover their purpose, and create a life of meaningful service so they can impact their world in a powerful way. Lisa is also a Certified Yoga Teacher and has been teaching yoga since 2003. Lisa has studied coaching with world-renowned coaches. She is committed to learning and evolving throughout her life and is dedicated to being an example of what's possible.  In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Lisa Kneller shares how “coaching yourself”  is the key to unlocking personal growth and transformation. She shares the essential questions you should be asking yourself to discover your true identity so you can uncover your life’s purpose and chart a course toward your desired future. Lisa and I cover the following topics:Why self-coaching is beneficial, even when you have a professional coach. The three questions that are essential for self-discovery. The one question you must ask as you become more aware of your thoughts.Using the CTFAR (circumstance, thought, feeling, action, and result) model as a framework for journaling and thought work. Taking time to address the actual or perceived obstacles that come up as you visualize your desired future. Coaching is a way to hasten transformation and to learn about who you are and what you can accomplish. As you explore these questions and figure out what you want to achieve, I encourage you to consider productivity coaching, which can help you quickly and efficiently identify the steps to get you there and to take inspired action.CONNECT WITH LISA KNELLER:WebsiteFacebookLinkedInX (Twitter)YouTubeCONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)MINDTRXEp 158: The Benefits of Therapeutic Journaling for Mental HealthEp 109: Strategic Journaling for Business Growth with Lisa LatimerEp 183: No Fail Gratitude Journal Approach for Your Busy LifeEp 198:

12/2/24 • 36:03

Text your thoughts and questions!Life is stressful. Anyone who tells you otherwise is either selling something or living on an island somewhere. But just because a stressful life is the reality for many of us, doesn’t mean that life’s not good too. It can absolutely be both. Identifying the good part is a key element of practicing gratitude. This week, episode 237 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to use a gratitude practice in a stressful life. In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing how a regular gratitude practice can shift our perspective, improve resilience, and reduce stress and I give you actionable steps to take right now to design a gratitude practice in a way that works best for you. I cover the following topics:A review of stress—how it can be helpful and harmful. Using gratitude to choose the direction of our thoughts, focusing on the positive.Actionable ways to practice gratitude for stress management and a few methods to try for yourself.Sample questions to use as a prompt when you’re getting started.I encourage you to embrace the power of gratitude and use it as a guiding light to navigate the stresses of life, empowering yourself to live with more positivity, resilience, and joy.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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Positively Grateful Resources BundleGratitude Podcast EpisodesStress Management Podcast EpisodesEp 8: Toxic Positivity with Valerie FriedlanderEp 114: Harmful Mindset Approaches with Valerie FriedlanderDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

11/25/24 • 21:13

Text your thoughts and questions!There is so much to appreciate about the holiday season, including time with those you love and experiences that connect you more deeply with others and yourself. It’s a time when you can take a break, enjoy treats, and think about what’s most important. But often, this doesn’t come without its fair share of stressors. To combat those stressors, I give you the 80/20 principle. By using this tool to reduce the impact of those stressors and highlight the good things, we can truly enjoy the holiday season. This week, episode 236 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about making your holiday season less stressful with the 80/20 principle.In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m discussing reasons why we may experience increased stress during the holiday season and sharing several ways you can incorporate the 80/20 principle into your life so you can choose what works best for you. I cover the following topics:Where the 80/20 principle originated from and how it applies to many aspects of our everyday lives. Four ways to simplify holiday shopping and reduce financial strain. Four tips for managing your expectations around the holiday season. Using the 80/20 principle to be selective with the holiday activities you participate in (choosing the 20% of things that bring you 80% of your joy). As a bonus, I emphasize the importance of decluttering your physical, mental, and gift-giving spaces to instantly reduce stress. When you can be more present and prioritize what truly matters, you’ll reduce stress and create a more enjoyable and meaningful holiday season. That is what I wish for you.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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 199: Using the 80/20 Principle to Leverage a Better LifeEp 235: When You Must Say No for a Less Stressful LifeDecluttering Podcast PlaylistDance Song Playlist V1, V2,

11/18/24 • 20:33

Text your thoughts and questions!As a recovering people pleaser and a multi-passionate creative, I actually love saying YES to people and opportunities. But I’ve also learned what will happen if I’m not careful, intentional, and selective in the things I say yes to. This week, episode 235 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about when you must say no for a less stressful life!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing that, while it may feel good at the moment, saying yes to too many things can lead to stress, loss of focus, missed opportunities, and burnout. To avoid this, I am giving you actionable steps to take right now to evaluate what you want to say yes to so you can say no to the rest. I cover the following topics:The consequences of continually saying yes too often and, alternatively, the benefits of saying no when necessary.How to identify instances when you should say “no”, even when your instinct is telling you to say “yes.”Five practical tips you can use to evaluate the opportunities that come your way and set boundaries that protect your time and energy. This is not simply about saying "no” (though I encourage you to practice that) but realizing it’s when you say no that makes a big difference. This comes with practice and continued self-awareness. I encourage you to keep learning your limits so you can honor them and keep setting those boundaries to reduce stress, increase focus, and achieve your goals. 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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 117: How to Say No Without Feeling Guilty or RudeEp 53: How To Tell If I'm Codependent with Mallory JacksonDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

11/11/24 • 18:11

Text your thoughts and questions!Invisible stressors are stressors in our lives that aren’t necessarily obvious but can build up over time and take us down. As a multi-passionate entrepreneur, volunteer, and solo parent and caregiver of a special needs child, Janis Isaman found herself experiencing an anxiety episode when her invisible stressors built up, leaving her feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and behind on her task list. This week, episode 234 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is a strategy call where I help Janis handle the invisible stressors in her demanding life! In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, you’ll see how someone whose business revolves around wellness and who constantly checks all of the self-care boxes can still fall victim to invisible stressors. I coach Janis on navigating her unbalanced support systems, reducing visual clutter in her home, and managing the different areas of life that require her attention. Janis and I cover the following topics:Planning time and space for the unexpected to pop up without derailing everything else.Setting parameters about what notifications to allow all the time and setting designated times to check the rest. Creating a system to organize and inventory the surplus of household items to reduce visual clutter and avoid over-buying. Upholding the systems you put in place when life gets overwhelming. While these strategy calls speak directly to the problems my guest is facing, we can all fall victim to these invisible stressors. If you think you would benefit from a strategy session with me, I encourage you to reach out. I would love to help you navigate your unique problems. Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH JANIS ISAMAN:My Body Couture CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne FerberLife and Business Advice from a Multi-Passionate Mom Entrepreneur with Reena Friedman Watts[Strategy Call] Balancing Family and Business with Roxanne Ferber[Strategy Call] Managing Stress and Making the Most of Moving with Reena Friedman Watts 

11/4/24 • 55:45

Text your thoughts and questions!According to Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies, I am a questioner by nature. In addition to constantly asking why, I also love answering questions too. I appreciate the challenge and the encouragement to reflect, which is probably why I love coaching. That’s why when I received a couple of related questions surrounding the topic of overwhelm, I wanted to take the time to answer them on the podcast, as I think my responses can be helpful for all of us. This week, episode 233 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about quick tips to try when you’re feeling overwhelmed. In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m giving you practical advice when dealing with various types of overwhelm, how to manage your energy, and how to find the systems that make your life easier.I cover the following topics:How you can begin sorting through everything when you’re overwhelmed (after taking care of yourself first).Advice for finding, learning, and actually using new systems that work for YOU.Tips for overcoming the paralyzing feelings of overwhelm and depression that creep up. Keep in mind that even when the overwhelm differs, the approach to help it is very similar. Take a moment to care for yourself, approach the situation with self-compassion, and make space to focus so you can decide what’s next. 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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)[PLP] Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps[PLP] How to Avoid Forgetting Things When Life Gets HecticDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

10/28/24 • 24:35

Text your thoughts and questions!Whether you’re working for someone else or yourself, personal time is essential for maintaining mental and physical well-being, preventing burnout, and boosting your productivity and performance. It’s something we know we need to prioritize, but it can feel so challenging to make the time for it. This week, episode 232 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to prioritize personal time by setting boundaries!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing the common challenges that multi-passionate entrepreneurs, caregivers, and people pleasers face when setting boundaries around their time, and I offer you actionable steps to take right now to start prioritizing your personal time. I cover the following topics:Six reasons why it’s essential to prioritize our personal time. Why it can be such a challenge to take personal time (even when we acknowledge the benefits). Three steps to take when you’re ready to break free and create your own boundaries (and protect them). Prioritizing personal time isn't selfish; it’s essential. It's about filling your own cup so you can show up as your best self for the people and passions you care about. 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/Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do. The Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Manage Stress through Rest and Play with Gary Ware (buzzsprout.com)How Overplanning Actually Hinders You From Doing More (buzzsprout.com)Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley (buzzsprout.com)How to Balance Your Life through Wholeness Pillars with Nicole Mixdorf (buzzsprout.com)Dance Song Playlist V1, V2,

10/21/24 • 21:19

Text your thoughts and questions!Do you struggle to take action because something has to be “just right,” or do you beat yourself up for everything you’ve done wrong (without noticing all you've done right)? Maybe you feel like you’re just not enough because you can’t reach the level of achievement or quality you want. If so, you may be labeled a “perfectionist.” Steph Ellen Diplock, a recovered perfectionist, joins me on the podcast today to delve into the complexities of perfectionism, exploring its roots, manifestations, and the impact it has on us as individuals (especially women). This week, episode 231 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to become a recovering perfectionist!In addition to being a recovered perfectionist, Steph Ellen is a multi-passionate mindset coach, energetic healer, certified yoga teacher, and equine veterinarian. Steph works with high achievers to let go of perfectionism and self-sabotage and live their purpose without hustle. Steph’s zone of genius is combining potent mindset coaching, shadow work, and nervous system regulation for a holistic and lasting transformation. In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Steph Ellen Diplock shares how perfectionism is too often glorified yet is actually a form of self-sabotage, leading to procrastination and a lack of authentic connection. She offers you actionable steps to take right now to overcome perfectionism.Steph Ellen and I cover the following topics:How perfectionism is less about having high standards and more a coping mechanism used to minimize feelings of shame and inadequacy.How to overcome perfectionism by being present, celebrating small successes, and having self-awareness paired with self-compassion.Finding safety in the body and practicing making mistakes in low-stakes environments are the first steps in getting comfortable with not being perfect. Keep in mind that as you start your journey, it’s not about sacrificing high standards. It’s about being kind to yourself in the process of trying to reach them. To overcome perfectionism, self-compassion–which is the greatest builder of resilience–is essential. CONNECT WITH STEPH ELLEN DIPLOCK:WebsiteInstagramCONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:ResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)How to Let Go of Shane and Rebuild Self-Trust with Valerie Friedlander5 Ways to Take Back Your Self-Worth with Jomana ElaridiInternal Family Systems As a Proven Treatment for Burnout with Katie LaCelle Binaural Beats: Sleep, Therapy, and Meditation (healthline.com)The Diary Of A CEO - YouTubeStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

10/14/24 • 38:10

Text your thoughts and questions!Productivity is often viewed as a one-size-fits-all solution, but that is far from the truth. There could be a hundred different factors that impact your productivity, one of which is the topic we’re addressing today: trauma. Becoming trauma-informed not only helps us when it comes to our personal development and productivity but is crucial for understanding ourselves and others on a deeper level. This week, episode 230 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why we need to be trauma-informed (more than ever)!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving into what a trauma-informed approach is, why it’s not just for therapists but for everyone, and how it’s not only compassionate but essential for sustainable productivity. I cover the following topics:Trauma’s significant impact on our ability to be productive, as it affects our energy levels, motivation, and focus. How Trauma isn’t always how we imagine it. Yes, it can be linked to major catastrophes and great loss, but it can also be linked to childhood bullying, neglect, or immense burnout.Why taking a compassionate person-first approach to productivity and recognizing each person's unique challenges and experiences is essential to sustainable productivity.Take heart and be encouraged, knowing that a trauma-informed approach will help you cultivate a healthy and sustainable relationship with productivity. Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 221: How to Help People Dealing with Trauma and Grief with Janice Scholl | Positively Productive Systems LLCEp 29: Trauma-Informed Life with Mallory Jackson | Positively Productive Systems LLCEp 53: How To Tell If I'm Codependent with Mallory Jackson (buzzsprout.com)Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

10/7/24 • 16:53

Text your thoughts and questions!While our ability to be flexible and resilient and change direction is important, planning first is essential. It’s a way to arrange how things will go ideally, and even if they don’t go that way, it will still help you keep focused and remain calm so you can be more flexible and resilient. This approach will be helpful as we enter the busy holiday season full of plans and events and be a tool to carry through the rest of the year as well. This week, episode 229 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the most important direction for effective planning!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m giving you a framework and perspective that’s going to simplify the concept of planning and help you execute your plans with confidence and clarity, regardless of what you’re planning.I cover the following topics:The essence of “backwards” planning by visualizing the end result you’re aiming to achieve: “Begin with the end in mind,” as coined by Stephen R. Covey in his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.Using the example of planning a Thanksgiving dinner to break down the 5 parts of planning anything.How to take this framework beyond event planning and use it in all other areas of your life. Remember, planning is a powerful tool that empowers you to create the life you desire. By starting with the end in mind and embracing the key elements of planning, you can transform your vision into reality.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/The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)PLP Episode 137: How to Create a Vision Board That Works Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

9/30/24 • 18:51

Text your thoughts and questions!While I don’t presume to know what your life is all about, I bet I can guess one thing about you: you handle a LOT. Whether you’re handling the mental load of caregiving or your mind is overflowing with ideas (or both), it can be overwhelming. It can feel amazing at times, all the while draining you and keeping you from functioning at your best. Luckily, the solution is more simple than you might think. It’s all about the art of “capturing”: taming the mental clutter so you can remember what’s important and boost your focus and creativity. This week, episode 228 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to avoid forgetting things when life gets hectic!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m digging into a concept called capturing. I share the origins of this technique, what it is, how it connects to mind sweeps and clutter, and give you actionable steps to take right now to try it for yourself. I cover the following topics:The negative impacts of an overwhelmed and cluttered mind. The concept of “capturing” as outlined in David Allen’s “Getting Things Done” (GTD) productivity framework.How to properly do a “mind sweep” and two resources you can use when you’re ready. My personal approach and preferred tools to this technique of capturing in my multi-passionate life.Don’t be afraid to keep trying until you figure out what works best for you. The best system for you is the one you will use.If you’re interested in any of the tools or resources I mentioned in this episode, you can find them all linked on the RESOURCES page of my website. 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/The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

9/23/24 • 21:03

Text your thoughts and questions!Positive habits are the cornerstone of a productive and fulfilling life, but mastering them can be a challenge. Today I am continuing our conversation about habits with more advanced strategies to help you maximize your productivity, reach your goals, and unlock the secret to sustainable, long-lasting change in your life. This week, episode 227 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about combining and stacking habits for better results!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing a strategic habit building technique that helps you reach your goals faster and gives you actionable steps to take right now to incorporate these game-changing techniques into your everyday life.I cover the following topics:Reviewing the science behind habits: how we create them, why they’re so hard to break, and how powerful they can be. Where the term “habit stacking” comes from and a simple formula for how to do it.Ideas and examples for how you can incorporate habit stacking and anchoring throughout your day.How focusing on building keystone habits can help you maximize the positive habits you create.Habits are your building blocks of a productive and fulfilling life. There are so many ways habits, especially when we combine the right ones, can change our lives for the better. What habit will you work on next?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/The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 15: How to Harness Habits to Achieve Your GoalsEp 225: How to Rebuild a Lost Habit or Create a Better OneDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

9/16/24 • 18:10

Text your thoughts and questions!People are so quick to strive for work-life balance, but there’s a reason we struggle to achieve that balance. Nicole Mixdorf joins me on the podcast today to challenge this narrative, sharing the true nature of a balanced life and how it’s not just a balance between work and personal life we should be focusing on, but rather a wholeness in every area of our life. This week, episode 226 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to balance your life through wholeness pillars. Nicole Mixdorf is a #1 International Best-Selling Author, Keynote Speaker, Energy Healer, and the Founder & Chief Wholeness Officer of Balance by Nature. She is a multi-award-winning corporate wellness consultant and conscious business leader in Los Angeles. She is passionate about teaching executives and busy professionals how to create sustainable balance to thrive in all of their 10 Pillars of Wholeness.In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Nicole shares the importance of bringing balance to all areas of our lives (not just work and personal) to feel complete so we can show up as our best selves, and she offers simple steps you can take to address imbalances. Nicole and I cover the following topics:10 pillars of wholeness that we need to assess to ensure balance in our lives. Some of the more common imbalances and areas we often neglect (you won’t be surprised that stress and lack of self-care are part of this list).The transition from focusing on wellness, to well-being and into wholeness.3 steps to assess and realign your pillars to show up as your best self, reach your full potential, and live your best life. Reclaiming your wholeness and feeling complete within yourself allows you to show up in the world as your best self. When that happens, you can experience and find enjoyment and richness in every moment, and give to the world in a much bigger, more beautiful way.Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH NICOLE MIXDORF:Balanced by NatureLinkedInInstagramCONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf | Positively Productive Systems LLC

9/9/24 • 42:27

Text your thoughts and questions!Habits can be both our greatest allies and our toughest adversaries. When we’ve painstakingly built up a routine that serves us well, it can be frustrating when life throws us a curveball, disrupting our hard-earned habits that we mistakenly thought were set in stone. But these disruptions don’t have to be the end of our progress. In fact, they can be an opportunity to reassess, rebuild, and replace habits in a way that are in alignment with our evolving needs. This week, episode 225 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to rebuild a lost habit or create a better one!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving deep into the world of rebuilding habits–how to create them, why they sometimes fizzle out and actionable steps to take right now to rebuild habits that serve us in our current season of life.I cover the following topics:A review of how habits work (as explained by authors Charles Duhigg and James Clear).Why our habits tend to fizzle out when they are disrupted by life events, stress, or changes in routine.4 tips for rebuilding or recreating habits and examples of how you can apply these steps in your daily routine.Remember, getting back into the groove of a habit takes time and patience, but the rewards are significant. Be kind to yourself, celebrate every small step, and stick with it. Consistency will help you reach your goals.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/The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)How to Use Body Doubling to Focus Better on TasksHow to Harness Habits to Achieve Your GoalsDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

9/2/24 • 24:16

Text your thoughts and questions!As the saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” The extent of that change and how it unfolds can vary, sometimes feeling fairly minor and other times throwing us completely off balance, shaking the foundation of who we believe ourselves to be. When change happens, you may feel unsure of how to move forward. I have experienced this many times, and I’ve come to both respect the challenges it presents and appreciate the growth it brings. I hope to share some of that wisdom with you today. This week, episode 224 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about figuring out your next steps after big life shifts. In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I discuss the journey of self-awareness and self-discovery that needs to come after a big life shift and give you actionable steps to take right now to keep moving forward confidently.The topics I cover in this episode include:Lack of self-identity is a main contributor to feeling unsure of what to do next after a big change. How self-reflection and self-discovery are essential to define your next steps. Five tips to apply to this self-reflection journey: giving yourself time to grieve, reflecting and connecting to what matters to you, exploring and experimenting with new options, seeking support, and embracing the journey (and the imperfections that come with it). You are not alone in this. We all go through seasons of change in our lives and I am here to cheer you on and encourage you to take those next steps needed to heal and move forward. 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/The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)PLP: Pay Attention, Find Your Purpose with Michelle PerryPLP: Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory SchlabachDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

8/26/24 • 17:25

Text your thoughts and questions!It is problematic that we tend to look at being productive as a standalone thing, without considering the other aspects of our lives. The reality is that life doesn’t happen in a vacuum and even the small things can have an impact. Everything we are and feel, especially grief, affects what we do and how we do it. This week, episode 223 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to live a productive life while grieving.In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing a glimpse of my personal journey with grief throughout my life and giving you actionable steps to take to acknowledge your grief and move forward with what you can do, while also giving yourself grace for what you can’t.I cover the following topics:Defining grief—the emotional response to loss of any kind (even including the change we welcome into our lives). How grief can manifest physically, cognitively, and emotionally, significantly impacting every aspect of one’s life.Acknowledging the presence of grief in our lives is the first step to moving forward with it.Planning our personal approach with realistic goals, self-care, and support from others. Adjusting our expectations and reframing what “productivity” means, can create the space needed for healing.Acknowledging and working with—not against—grief is not only a kindness to ourselves but also a key to unlocking our productivity potential.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/Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Productivity Boost session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

8/19/24 • 17:57

Text your thoughts and questions!Content Warning: Today’s conversation has very brief mentions of the loss of a loved one, and the loss of a child by suicide. If these are triggers for you, I gently encourage you to wait to listen or proceed carefully. Grief is a universal human experience, yet it can feel deeply isolating when we’re in the throes of it, often feeling hopeless and stuck. It can be difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak, and feel impossible to move forward. Carrie Hopkins-Doubts, a grief coach, knows this feeling well as she experienced it herself and now guides others on their journey to rebuild their life after loss. This week, episode 222 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to rebuild your life while grieving.Carrie Hopkins-Doubts, PCC, is a Spiritual Resilience Coach working with men and women experiencing major life transitions, whether in relationships, careers, health, or spirituality. As the founder of Life’s Next Chapter Coaching, Carrie’s passion is helping men and women discover new dreams for themselves as they consciously and powerfully rebuild their lives after loss by guiding them to reconnect with their heart, reclaim their power, and realign with their purpose to create their life’s next chapter.In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Carrie Hopkins-Doubts shares specific steps to help you identify where you are in your grief path and offers actionable steps to move forward and rebuild your life after loss. Carrie and I cover the following topics:How grief affects individuals on multiple levels - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, often leading to a shift in identity. Conscious grief: meeting and honoring your emotions with compassion and self-love, rather than avoiding or suppressing them.Self-care during grief is an essential habit to create the capacity for change and forward movement.Finding a safe space, whether through a support group or a trusted individual, when processing your grief. As you navigate grief, remember that you are not alone and you have the resilience to rebuild your life in a way that honors your loss and allows new growth to emerge.Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/CONNECT WITH CARRIE HOPKINS-DOUBTS:Life’s Next Chapter CoachingInstagramFacebookLinkedInCONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)Navigating Grief through Humor with Katie Rössler How We Grow through Grief with Katie Rössler Coping with Grief by Giving Back with Lindsay Taylor

8/12/24 • 39:03

Text your thoughts and questions!Content Warning: Today’s conversation involves mention of medical trauma and near-death experiences. If these are triggers for you, I gently encourage you to wait to listen or proceed carefully. Grief is so much more than losing a loved one. We can grieve after breakups and when we purposely choose to change; we can even grieve the loss of opportunity and parts of ourselves as we grow and age. But when society has conditioned us to grit it out when faced with something difficult, we realize that not only do we not know how to grieve, we don’t know how to support others through their grief. Janice Scholl joins me on the podcast today to share her personal story of navigating crisis and grief and the value of having support from others during challenging times. This week, episode 221 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to help people dealing with trauma and grief.Janice Scholl is a podcast host, speaker, and former commercial banker. She spends her time talking to parents and experts about raising strong, confident, resilient girls, as well as family finances and family-driven career breaks. Her podcast, Raising Middle School Girls, helps parents worldwide support their tween and teen girls navigate common challenges such as friendships, family communication, confidence, social media, and so much more. In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Janice shares her perspective on grief as a fundamental identity change and she gives you actionable advice you can take to recognize and cope with grief, and how to support others who are grieving.  Janice and I cover the following topics:Having the emotional maturity to hold space for someone’s emotions without trying to “fix” the situation. Both devastation and gratitude can coexist; finding joy and appreciation comes from knowing the opposite. Three things you can do to help someone who can’t verbalize what they need in a time of crisis.Let go of your fear of getting it wrong and take action with the right intentions. Grief is a journey we all share at one point or another and the more we can hold space for each other, the better off we’ll be. CONNECT WITH JANICE SCHOLL:Raising Middle School Girls InstagramCONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)Motherhood and Money with Janice Pica-SchollNavigating Grief through Humor with Katie RösslerHow We Grow through Grief with Katie RösslerCoping with Grief by Giving Back with Lindsay Taylor 

8/5/24 • 42:04

Text your thoughts and questions!Clutter is so much more than the physical stuff surrounding you. As Peter Walsh says, it’s anything that gets between you and the life you want to live. Clutter threads itself through every aspect of your life, impacting mental well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life. But luckily for us, decluttering even in the smallest amounts has a profound, almost instantaneous impact on our lives. This week, episode 220 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how decluttering helps you stress less and focus better!In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I explain how clutter holds us back, impacting every area of our lives, and give you actionable steps to remove the clutter and reclaim your peace and productivity. I cover the following topics:How clutter, in all forms, impacts our overall well-being and the significant benefits we experience as we remove it.The 4 main types of clutter (physical, mental, emotional, and digital) and the subcategories within each.Decision fatigue and how it causes clutter and how your clutter triggers it, activating stress hormones and cognitive overload.3 simple tips to keep in mind when starting a decluttering project. Remember, decluttering is not just about getting rid of stuff. It’s about creating space for what truly matters in your life, reducing stress, improving focus, and enhancing your overall well-being.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/Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Productivity Boost session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)PLP: Whole-Life Decluttering WorkshopPodcast | Positively Productive Systems LLCDance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3Music by Ian and Jeff ZawrotnyStart your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

7/29/24 • 16:18

Text your thoughts and questions!Imposter syndrome is something we’ve all experienced to some extent. It’s the culmination of our limiting beliefs that paralyze us in the moment and keep us from moving forward, which is why we need to free ourselves from it. Nicole Majik joins me on the podcast to shed light on what imposter syndrome looks like, how it’s connected to needs, beliefs, and experiences, and the steps we can take to turn it around and heal the past. This week, episode 219 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to free your mind from imposter syndrome!Nicole Majik is a dynamic and inspirational catalyst for personal and professional transformation. With her unique blend of expertise, experience, and passion, Nicole empowers individuals to awaken their true potential and embrace a life of purpose, fulfillment, and success.In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Nicole shares how imposter syndrome is deeply connected to our limiting beliefs and she gives you actionable steps to take right now to recognize the beliefs that do not serve us so that we can change them. Nicole and I cover the following topics:Imposter syndrome is a symptom of abandonment and shame and acts as an umbrella of the many negative behaviors, feelings, and thoughts we have.3 pillars that everyone needs to feel fulfilled: safety and security, love and acceptance, and empowerment. Telltale signs that you might be experiencing imposter syndrome. Ways to heal the past: considering where beliefs originated, gaining an adult perspective on the past, and practicing self-forgiveness. As a reminder, you don’t have to free yourself fully to make progress. You can remove one block at a time and keep taking action while you heal. Feel the fear and do it anyway.Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/CONNECT WITH NICOLE MAJIK:WebsiteFree ResourcesYouTubeInstagramFacebookLinkedInTikTokCONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)Ep 216: How to Let Go of Shame and Rebuild Self-Trust with Valerie FriedlanderEp 56: Conquer Your Inner Critic Through Play with Jeff HarryEp 209: How To Motivate Yourself By Meeting Your Needs FirstDance Song Playlist V1, V2,

7/22/24 • 37:14