I also loved that Carl talked about multi-tasking. He admitted that there are contexts in which multi-tasking makes sense, and yet many times when we think it makes us more efficient it actually makes us less productive. The human brain does not multi-process; multi-tasking forces the brain to toggle back and forth between mental "files" and different parts of our brain. This results in tasks taking more time than they would if we focused on doing one thing at a time. These tidbits are only the tip of the iceberg-I don't want to spoil the whole interview...it is a fun, robust and fascinating listen.
This podcast series is a game changer for listeners- even if they take one nugget of information-just one tip or tool- and run with it to incorporate that into their lives, their life will get better. Each interview shares unique tools, tips and information and some even walk people through mindfulness and other exercises to provide an experience. Collectively, this series touches on every area of life that affects productivity and happiness.
JB: I can truly say that I'm enjoying myself immensely so far and looking forward to the rest of my homework. And I especially love that the various presenters share their own stories of growth in the process, as you did. What haven't we talked about yet that you'd like to add before we wrap this up?
NM: I'm so glad to hear that! This series is meant to be enjoyable and enriching- a healthy form of distraction from our crazy election in the U.S., and a reminder that life goes on. We need to take care of ourselves no matter what is happening in our lives. Podcasts are a relaxing, easy way to get great information, even on the go. For most people, I suspect there will be at least one interview in the series that introduces something completely new. I ask that people listen to these interviews with an open, curious mind. I feel like for a few of the interviews I should give a "woo-woo" alert. That said, I have personally tried some version of every technique discussed in this series. I know everything shared in the series actually works because it either worked for me or for people I know personally. I also learned and experienced new things during these discussions. I practice what I preach. I took on some new micro-habits after doing these interviews...for one, I bought a rebounder and have been using and loving it.
This series brings together people who are all participating in a very important conversation - one that needs to be brought into today's corporate and business culture. The do more, faster, better with less self-care and less connection philosophy is flawed, and it is not sustainable. It does not produce the best results. Innovation does not happen by grinding and rushing. Creativity and vision comes from within, and cannot be accessed without space to connect, reflect and process. Engagement happens only through such connection. My book, ENHANCE Employee Engagement: Future Proof Company Strategies, lays out a framework and specific strategies employees at all levels of organizations can use to facilitate the connection and drive that leads to better performance at the individual and corporate levels. You can get that on Amazon here.
Humans are not robots and that's a good thing. In the immortal words of a prolific, successful, creative, Dr. Seuss, "remember that Life's a Great Balancing Act."
JB: Indeed! Thanks so much for talking with me, Nicole. I'm so glad that you've put together The Balanced Life podcast series. All that collective wisdom wrapped up neatly in manageable portions and available, free, in one place. That we might actually be able to gracefully juggle the various demands made upon us at work and at home is a radical and exhilarating concept. Readers: hustle and sign up now! This is such a gift, with no strings attached, and an opportunity not to be missed.
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Thank you, Brigid Schulte, for the intro to Nicole, making this interview possible.
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