Results

§15 – A great recipe to be stressed out

July 26, 2018

(Part 27 of 37 in series, Study inspired by Pakour & Art du Déplacement by V. Thibault)

Have you noticed: Once you know something, you see it everywhere?

Reading this section, I’m reminded of Joe Erhmann’s ideas from the book “InsideOUT Coaching,” and of Steven Covey’s, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Both of which also counsel beginning with what’s inside; Beginning by taking a step back and noticing — perhaps _learning_ to notice is the first step — the broader context.

Over a decade ago, the previous-me was entirely focused inward, on myself, on the small picture. That previous-me molted as I managed to become self aware and began learning empathy. With empathy came the ability to listen and, most recently, the ability to communicate, “How can I help?”

And yet I still regularly find myself stressed out.

My impatience regarding…
fat loss
movement progression
the podcast
memento mori

…grows, and the things I appreciate– the things I have now which I have worked so vary hard for to this point– …well, I’ve grown accustomed to them and while I still internally appreciate them I’ve stopped showing that appreciation externally.

I need to shift my goals.

I need to move the goal posts.

I need to set milestones at smaller intervals.

When you make some new connection, one then suddenly sees it everywhere.

On a recent Saturday — a day I usually jam full of goals — I accidentally set so few goals for the day, that by 4pm I was completely done. Normally, I set my goals at “do all the things” [meme image omitted :], and at some point each day I surrender with a fatalistic, “that’s enough for today!” It took me a long time to get comfortable knowing I’m organized and motivated enough that I will make progress towards my long-term goals. But every day is either a day “off” with rest and relaxation with minimal work towards goals, or a day “on” where everything is ordered– flexible, adjustable, prioritized sure, but ordered none the less.

On this particular Saturday, at 4pm…

It was surreal. It was just a nice feeling, like, “Okay, what do I want to do?” I wandered around in this daze of, “Gee, the weather is nice,” “Wow, the feel of the concrete under my bare feet is nice,” “I’d forgotten to notice how comfortable this chair is,” and “Wow, this food is particularly yummy.”

What was different? Nothing.

I still had — still have! — an enormously-complex, personal productivity system which holds all the things I’m working on. That’s not bad; That’s good. It helps me greatly by remembering everything for me, so I can use my brain for having ideas and doing things. I still have a house with a sort of strange spot on one of the ceilings that I think means the roof might be leaking. I still have a leak in the shower that I haven’t figured out. There’s still some firewood to be split.

…but for one evening — a Saturday from about 4pm until I went to sleep around 9:30 — for one evening, I clearly forgot to put in one (or both!) of the ingredients that make up the recipe for being stressed out.

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Ever-present mental stress

March 7, 2018

Most people have been in some version of this mental stress state so consistently, for so long, that they don’t even know they’re in it. Like gravity, it’s ever present — so much so that those who experience it usually aren’t even aware of the pressure. The only time most of them will realize how much tension they’ve been under is when they get rid of it and notice how different they feel. It’s like the constant buzzing noise in a room you didn’t know was there until it stops.

~ David Allen from, Getting Things Done

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The key insight for me was once I realized there are two “directions” to thinking: I was always good at vertical thinking, going down thru a project (big or small), planning, organizing and doing. This was simply “thinking”, and how could there be more than one “direction” in which to think?

Unfortunately, I often got stuck when my brain started doing this other direction of thinking for which I had no name; no concept to attach: The horizontal thinking. The hopping from project to project — and I use “project” in the most broad sense of ANY thing involving a goal (“remodel house”, “send holiday cards”), any size (“seven years of projet management and contractors”, “buy stamps, buy cards, stuff, mail” ), and any number of steps. My mind hopped uncontrollably from thing to thing, around and around, across all the open loops, as the same things came up over and over and over.

These days, having a solid capture and review system enables me to close those mental loops. I can often read for a half an hour without my mind once interrupting me with some random, “I need to do this,” or “I need to remember that,” thought. (And if it does interupt me, I simple capture that thought once. Done. Freedom.) In the beginning I used paper notecards, then notebooks, software, and on and on. The exact system does not matter. It only matters that you trust your system. Only when you truly trust your system will your subconscious close all those open loops.

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The distress of the privileged

January 25, 2015

If you are one of the newly-visible others, this all sounds whiny compared to the problems you face every day. It’s tempting to blast through such privileged resistance with anger and insult.

Tempting, but also, I think, a mistake. The privileged are still privileged enough to foment a counter-revolution, if their frustrated sense of entitlement hardens.

So I think it’s worthwhile to spend a minute or two looking at the world from George Parker’s point of view: He’s a good 1950s TV father. He never set out to be the bad guy. He never meant to stifle his wife’s humanity or enforce a dull conformity on his kids. Nobody ever asked him whether the world should be black-and-white; it just was.

~ Doug Muder, from The Distress of the Privileged

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It’s the messiness

7 Days Ago

It turned out in retrospect that the messy diversity of the forest had been the source of its resilience. When stresses such as storms, disease, drought, fragile soil, or severe cold struck, a diverse forest with its full array of different species of trees, birds, insects, and animals was far better able to survive and recover. A windstorm that toppled large, old trees would typically spare smaller ones. An insect attack that threatened oaks might leave lindens and hornbeams unaffected. The rigidity and uniformity of the system meant that failures were not small and contained but systemic.

~ Tiago Forte, from Productive Disorder: The Hidden Power of Chaos, Noise, and Randomness

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I’m simply stuck, staring at: “The rigidity […] of the system meant that failures were […] systemic.” I’m filing this under Stuff I Wished I’d Learned 30 Years Ago. I often say that I use systems and structure as a way to multiply my efforts. And that’s true. But I’ve learned that the real reason is that I’m afraid. The big why behind my hyper-organization, maximally-complex systems, and endless aligning of figurative ducks is my desperately trying to control the world around me. With realization comes… the recognition that I have a lot more work to learn to not do.

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Connection with Lindsay McMahon

June 17

How does a podcast serving millions still make each listener feel personally connected?

Discover why “connection, not perfection” became the north star for one of the world’s most-listened-to language shows.

[Do you ever freak-out thinking about 200,000 people listening?] I think that our vision of the human connection is still so strong inside me, that I think about that. I think about that listener who might feel isolated right now because of language. They’re either living in the US and they’re struggling to get connected in their community, or they’re on a call from Japan to New York and they’re cringing because they think they just said the wrong thing and they’re not building the business relationship.

~ Lindsay McMahon (19:00)

This conversation with Lindsay McMahon explores the strategic structure and guiding values behind one of the most successful podcasts for English language learners. Lindsay discusses how the show’s consistency in structure, length, and tone builds trust and supports learning. The format was intentionally designed from the beginning, and every episode follows a clear template. The recurring message, “connection, not perfection,” drives the brand and resonates deeply with listeners around the world. The show targets global English learners, particularly professionals, and publishes five days a week, delivering a sense of reliability and approachability.

Lindsay shares her team-building strategy, including how co-hosts are hired, trained, and retained. She emphasizes treating podcasting as a business (for example, offering benefits like 401(k) matching), which contributes to long-term team cohesion. The show’s monetization model is also discussed, covering courses, sponsorships, licensing, and Apple+ subscriptions. The team uses lead magnets (like quizzes), and consistent calls to action are embedded in every episode. Additional topics include burnout, managing production buffers, and ambitions to expand into live events and podcast coaching.

Takeaways

Designing a consistent episode format — A deliberate structure supports language learning and creates a predictable listener experience.

“Connection, not perfection” as a guiding principle — Prioritizing human connection over grammatical precision challenges traditional language instruction.

Podcasting as a business, not a hobby — Hiring co-hosts as paid team members ensures accountability and long-term consistency.

Lead magnets drive engagement — Quizzes are particularly effective at converting listeners into email subscribers.

Outlining instead of scripting — Episodes are outlined with teaching goals but intentionally unscripted to maintain spontaneity.

Batch recording and long buffers — Maintaining a three-week content buffer ensures uninterrupted delivery despite emergencies.

Burnout isn’t hypothetical — High-stress periods, like losing a team member, can lead to physical consequences and force reevaluation.

Team chemistry matters — Rapport between co-hosts is essential and carefully considered during hiring.

Being contrarian creates distinction — Challenging industry norms, like overemphasis on perfection, helps define a unique brand identity.

Listener-first thinking — Constant attention is paid to whether the listener is engaged and whether the show is truly serving their needs.

Video is a distribution channel, not a core product — Repurposing podcast audio for YouTube helps reach wider audiences without diluting focus.

Podcasting isn’t the business — The podcast functions as the top of a funnel for a multifaceted language education company.

Seasons don’t make sense for some formats — A continuous delivery model supports learners’ expectations and needs.

In-person events are powerful but resource-heavy — Listener meetups provide deep engagement but require significant logistics.

Launching early provided advantage — Entering the English-as-second-language podcast market in 2013 gave a head start with less competition.

Resources

All Ears English — Main site for the language-learning podcast and its related offerings.

All Ears English YouTube Channel — Video recordings of podcast episodes for additional reach.

Apple Podcasts: All Ears English — To listen, but also if you want to see what they’re doing with Apple+ subscriptions and how that shows up in the Apple player.

Business English from All Ears English — One of the brand’s additional podcasts focused on business-specific English learning.

IELTS Energy Podcast — Show for students preparing for the IELTS exam, also under the All Ears English brand.

OptinMonster — Tool mentioned for generating email opt-ins from website traffic.

Podcast Movement — Mentioned as the location (at the 2024 event in London) of recent discussions on the future of video in podcasting.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Engagement with Vince Quinn

May 20

What does it really mean to be an effective podcast host?

Good podcasts succeed by focusing on engagement, not biography.

[…] everybody loves podcasting and talks about their podcast constantly, and yet never talks about hosting— how can I be a better host?

~ Vince Quinn (2:00)

This conversation with Vince Quinn focuses on the role of hosting in podcasting, emphasizing that many podcasters neglect to develop hosting as a craft. The discussion contrasts how people obsess over gear or downloads but rarely consider how to become better hosts. A strong host is seen as fundamental to a good show—someone who prepares, guides the conversation, and stays aware of pacing, clarity, and energy. The act of listening back to one’s own show is framed as a vital method of improving, not just through passive review but through strategic reflection on structure, tone, and listener engagement.

Vince and Craig also discuss common pet peeves in podcasting, such as hosts who aren’t prepared or who rely on generic question lists. They stress that shows should begin with engaging topics, not guest biographies, and that silence and space are useful tools for dynamic audio. Another significant topic is the use of LinkedIn and other platforms not just for promotion but for building real, reciprocal connections. The conversation closes with reflections on using podcasts as core drivers of content strategy for small businesses, suggesting that most podcasters follow flawed blueprints and should instead focus on clarity of purpose and realistic goals.

Takeaways

Hosting as the core skill — Hosting is the defining feature of a podcast and is rarely given the attention it deserves.

Listening back with purpose — Reviewing episodes is essential for improvement, especially when done with detachment and intention.

Preparation makes a difference — Being prepared with guest-specific context creates a better experience for both guest and audience.

Avoiding biography overload — Starting episodes with long guest bios wastes listener attention and can be a major turnoff.

Letting guests lead — Asking neutral, open-ended questions enables guests to share authentic experiences without emotional projection.

Using space intentionally — Strategic use of silence can enhance tension, rhythm, and storytelling in audio.

Engaging social media mindfully — LinkedIn and other platforms can be used effectively to build strategic business relationships.

Avoiding generic questions — Personalized, thoughtful prompts are more engaging than standard interview scripts.

Choosing the right content blueprint — Most podcasters imitate high-profile shows without realistic alignment to their own goals.

Using podcasting for business — Podcasts can drive content strategy, relationship-building, and lead generation for service-based businesses.

Maximizing limited resources — Bootstrapped creators can use a podcast to generate multi-purpose content across platforms efficiently.

Clarity of purpose — Defining success and setting short-term goals are crucial for keeping podcast production focused and meaningful.

Resources

SBX Productions — Vince Quinn’s business providing podcast production services.

Vince’s free 30-minute consultations — To help creators improve their shows.

Vince on LinkedIn

It’s Not “Just Talking” — Vince’s podcast

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Persistence with Tim Winders

March 31

What does redefining success look like after you’ve lost everything?

Podcasting becomes a vehicle for self-discovery, long-form connection, and client engagement.

I’ve talked to a lot of podcasters. I’m able to talk to people for roughly 60 minutes without any interruption. It nourishes my soul, and I love it. That’s the real foundation.

~ Tim Winders (19:18)

This conversation explores the origin and evolution of the long-running podcast, Seek. Go. Create., and its relationship to Tim Winder’s personal and professional journey. Tim describes how the podcast began as a response to a client’s needs, but quickly became a spiritually driven endeavor. He was encouraged to share personal stories, including difficult experiences like financial collapse and homelessness. Over time, the show developed into a platform that not only supports a coaching business but also nourishes a desire for deep, uninterrupted conversations.

This conversation also touches on the structure and process behind maintaining consistency over hundreds of episodes, the relationship between control and creativity, and the integration of podcasting with writing and coaching work. Tim explains how the podcast serves as both an outlet and a tool for building content across platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn. There’s a recurring theme of redefining success, with reflections on audience size, personal growth, and the impact of letting go of expectations.

Takeaways

Passion and discipline in creative work — Staying consistent with a long-form podcast over six years requires both intrinsic motivation and structured systems.

Spiritual foundation and calling — The podcast began with a directive to share personal stories, rooted in a spiritual sense of purpose.

Redefining success — Personal hardship and shifting values led to a reevaluation of what constitutes meaningful achievement.

Homelessness and recovery — A journey from living in a mansion to being homeless influenced the depth and direction of the content.

Audience clarity — Over time, there was a realization that the audience consists of mature, critical thinkers rather than the masses.

Content repurposing — Long-form conversations are mined for short clips and articles to extend reach on platforms like YouTube and Medium.

Use of systems and strategy — The production relies on detailed checklists and project management tools to maintain quality and consistency.

Role of the podcast in coaching — The podcast supports coaching by offering thought leadership and lightly integrated calls to action.

Illusion of control — There is acknowledgment that striving for control causes stress, and much of the journey involves releasing that illusion.

Fiction writing as expression — A novel emerged from the same journey, written to reach men reconsidering the meaning of success.

Contemplation of stopping — The work continues only as long as the speaker feels nourished by the conversations; there’s comfort with the idea of ending when the interest fades.

Branding reflections — While the podcast title “Seek, Go, Create” is occasionally reconsidered for discoverability, it remains due to its deep personal significance and consistent branding.

Resources

SeekGoCreate.com — Tim’s website for the podcast and related content.

Coach: A Story of Success Redefined — Tim’s novel written to explore themes of personal reinvention and purpose.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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The complexity of relationships

January 24

So why did we evolve a large brain if it wasn’t essential for toolmaking? One reason is that existing in a large social group is very mentally taxing. Those who are better at playing the social game will have more access to mates and resources and will be more likely to reproduce. As the groups get larger, so the computational power needed to keep up with the interconnections grows exponentially, as does the stress.

~ Mark Maslin, from Why Humans Are So Smart—And So Stressed Out

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I’m too often stressed out (ever / at all is too often!) It helps to get really clear on what exactly is stressing me out. Because the complexity of relationships is a feature—not a problem—of our expansive, beautiful, wonderful, modern world.

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Calm companies

July 23

Calm companies provide meaningful work, healthy interactions, and flexibility for people’s lives. If your kid is home sick, you can set work aside and take care of them. If it’s a beautiful day, you can go for a run on the beach.

~ Justin Jackson, from We need more calm companies

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It was only a little over a year ago (as noted in my Calm Technology post) that first heard of calm tech.

Calm technology is designed to be unobtrusive and blend in with daily life. The opposite is technology that is distracting and disruptive, creating agitation and stress.

And of course, what would one—hopefully—build using calm tech?

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We create the decision

April 26, 2024

The following is a very short blog post. The idea that struck me is that how true it is (!) that we create the decision. Each decision (the root of the word, but also clearly what happens when we decide) represents our choosing to cut off—to amputate—some thing or things as we create new or renewed focus on some other thing.

This is especially true of the most difficult decisions—the ones where you are taking a risk and simply can’t predict the many ways in which it will play out. A useful perspective for the anxiety-ridden late night hours those decisions tend to inspire.

~ Mandy Brown from, Making decisions

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Truly, I’ve only had to make a handful of actual decisions. And they were really stressful. Right up until the moment when I actually, finally, made a decision. I can’t recall a single time where the post-decision stress or worry was anything at all like the pre-decision stress or worry. It’s almost as if I am the one creating all the stress and worry within myself.

And to be clear: That’s snark. Obviously, I’m the once creating the stress and worry. How about you? Anything you should be deciding so you can relax and move forward?

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Perspective with Jamie Holmes

March 20, 2024

Perspective with Jamie Holmes

What strategies can individuals use to manage administrative tasks efficiently while maintaining their creativity and productivity in other pursuits?

Jamie Holmes joins Craig to discuss life’s admin tasks, her journey through holistic healing from melanoma, and insights into the world of circus arts and personal fitness showcasing her multifaceted life and philosophies.

I think it was three months from when I had my first, initial consult with my surgeon, and he said, “okay I can get you in. It’s going to be a bit harder because you’re doing both hips at once, but I can get you in within three months.” And that was horrid to me! I was like, “I have to live three more months like this!?” It wasn’t just that it hurt a little bit when I walked— I couldn’t move— I could not move— I was having weird panic attacks all the time, because if I dropped something and had to bend over, it was— I’m a bit of a tough cookie, but that? That broke me pretty hard.”

~ Jamie Holmes, 35:15

Not your average bears, Craig and Jamie begin in left field discussing ways of managing life’s “admin” tasks. Jamie professes integrating everything into her daily flow, rather than reserving them for a single day. Her approach, she explains, allows her to work at a high speed, avoiding the buildup of dreaded tasks. Her method emphasizes efficiency and the mental ease that comes from staying ahead of administrative duties, reflecting a deeper understanding of personal productivity and time management.

The conversation shifts into Jamie’s profound journey through holistic healing after a melanoma diagnosis. Rejecting traditional treatment paths, Jamie opts for a holistic approach, guided by her conviction in the body’s healing capabilities and her passion for health and fitness. This segment of the discussion not only highlights her resilience but also serves as an inspiring testament to the power of our minds and bodies.

Jamie also shares insights into the world of circus arts and her studio, The Circus Fix, illuminating the challenges and rewards of managing a fitness and arts studio. Her narrative encompasses the delicate balance of artistic passion with the pragmatism of business management, underscoring the significance of adaptability and understanding in leadership roles.

Takeaways

Efficiency in daily tasks—integrating administrative duties into everyday life can enhance productivity and reduce stress.

Holistic healing approaches—exploring non-traditional methods for dealing with serious health issues, such as melanoma, can lead to personal insights and unexpected journeys.

The importance of movement—engaging in physical activities, whether through circus arts or other forms of exercise, is vital for mental and physical health.

Adapting to individual needs—understanding and accommodating the unique ways people process and work can lead to better management and teamwork.

The value of outdoor activities—spending time in nature, particularly in activities like walking on the beach, can serve as a form of meditation and rejuvenation.

Facing life-changing decisions—confronting severe health challenges with courage and openness to unconventional treatments can inspire others.

The challenge of balancing—managing a small business, especially in the arts, requires juggling creative passion with the practicalities of administration and leadership.

The role of community—creating spaces for learning and growth, such as a circus studio, contributes to the well-being and development of both instructors and students.

Personal transformation through adversity—overcoming physical and mental hurdles can lead to profound personal growth and a deeper understanding of one’s capacities and resilience.

Resources

The Circus Fix — Jamie Holmes’ circus studio, offering classes in aerial arts and other circus disciplines.

https://jamieholmes.com — Jamie’s web site with all her professional details.

Carrots, Coffee, and Cancer — Jamie’s book recounting her approach to overcoming melanoma, emphasizing diet, lifestyle, and alternative treatments.

Instagram — @jamie7holmes and @thecircusfixto

Surrounded by Idiots — by Thomas Erikson as briefly mentioned in this episode as a resource in relation to understanding team dynamics.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Happiness with Matt Phelan

March 5, 2024

Happiness – with Matt Phelan

What role do emotions and energy play in creating meaningful connections and achieving success in podcasting and life?

Matt Phelan joins Craig Constantine to explain how he manages to measure happiness without making it a pointless metric and to reveal the profound impact of podcasting on personal connections in the world of employee happiness research.

For 10 years I ran a marketing agency, I know how the world works and getting big names on your podcast is really good […] But then I have to remind myself: The whole point of the podcast, for me, was the discovery of really interesting people […]

~ Matt Phelan, 10:05

Matt Phelan and Craig Constantine lean into podcasting, happiness measurement, and the authenticity of dialogues. Their conversation evolves into a reflection on personal and professional paths, transcending the mechanics of podcasting to highlight the emotional bonds it can create.

Matt shares his experience with his podcast, “Happiness and Humans,” stressing the critical view that happiness shouldn’t be reduced to a quantifiable metric, as it risks losing its essence. He reflects on his decade-long journey, concluding that failing to align himself with the natural energy flow resulted in significant time lost on unfruitful endeavors. This insight shapes a broader conversation about the importance of surrendering to the flow, influencing his life philosophy and his approach to the podcast.

Further, Matt explains his decision to spotlight insightful, yet possibly overlooked, stories and research over pursuing notable figures, thereby staying true to his podcast’s aim to uncover novel perspectives on employee happiness and well-being.

Takeaways

The importance of authenticity in podcasting — focusing on meaningful conversations rather than chasing high-profile guests enhances the value of the content.

The futility of rigid metrics for happiness — emphasizing that once happiness becomes a target, it loses its significance as a genuine metric.

Following the natural flow — a decade-long reflection revealed the inefficiency of going against the natural current, underscoring the importance of energy alignment in personal and professional endeavors.

Highlighting lesser-known research — choosing to feature insightful stories and research from individuals who may not be widely recognized can uncover unique perspectives on topics like employee happiness.

Emotional connections through podcasting — conversations that dive into personal feelings and experiences can create stronger, more meaningful connections with the audience.

Challenging conventional success metrics in podcasting — success can be more authentically measured by the impact on individuals and the personal connections formed, rather than just viewership or listener counts.

The transformative power of self-reflection — reviewing past actions and decisions, such as the allocation of time and energy, can lead to more effective and fulfilling future endeavors.

Resources

Happiness and Humans — Matt Phelan’s podcast exploring themes around happiness in the workplace, featuring insights from various professionals and researchers.

The Happiness Index — Matt’s book, discussed in this episode.

The Happiness Index — A platform and company founded by Matt and his partners, offering tools and services to measure employee engagement and happiness.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewphelan/ — Matt on LinkedIn

Freedom to Be Happy — Matt’s first, self-published book based on insights and data gathered from measuring employee happiness in over a hundred countries.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Listening

February 23, 2024

I’ve now done a lot of recorded conversations for podcasts. I’ve spent a lot of money, and I’ve spent a vast amount of time. I’ve had every imaginable problem. I’ve been stressed out. I’ve literally worked myself to exhaustion and illness.

The line from Zeno was that we were given two ears and one mouth for a reason. That reason? To listen more than we talk.

To learn from people who can teach us. To find something that makes us better.

~ Ryan Holiday from, 27 Things I’ve Learned From 150 Million Podcast Downloads

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The rewards I’ve gotten—the things I’ve learned and the people I’ve met and the experiences I’ve had—have been worth every penny and every moment and every hardship.

The opportunity to speak with hundreds of people (most of whom I’d never have crossed paths with, let alone had a good conversation with) is priceless.

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Derivative

January 21, 2024

I write a lot about “looking back”. (A lot: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 21 more posts, plus “looking back” has another 17 posts.) I clearly believe—I really do—that looking back is best for assessing things.

And yet… stress, unhappiness. (Important: Words left unsaid.)

By all objective metrics, I’m as successful today as I could hope to be a decade ago. I’m happily married, well inside the richest 1% globally, have found my tribe and earned some respect in it. I should be able to relax and take some satisfaction in my current situation. And yet the thought that in 5 years my life will look exactly like it does today fills me with dread.

~ Jacob Falkovich from, Unstriving

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My title is a nerdy reference to a small detail in the article. But it’s also a nerdy reference to how I feel that everything I write is simply derivative. Nonetheless, I’m looking back. I’m assessing my progress. I’m making some plans and I’m cutting red tape.

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Communication with Vincent Thibault

December 15, 2023

Communication – with Vincent Thibault

What are the connections between movement as a language, mindfulness, and personal development?

Vincent Thibault joins Craig to discuss the dance between movement and mindfulness, and the balance of effort and ease in training Art du Déplacement.

You don’t have to pretend that you’re in top shape. If you’re not in top shape that very day you just do what you can. You can be yourself and the whole notion of ease is actually very profound, and that’s where my personal training connects with meditation […] One of the first things we learn with Buddhist Meditation is to be friends with yourself. I don’t want to confuse the whole discussion and mix our metaphors here, but there’s this notion of learning to be friends with your own mind, and that can translate into the way you approach movement and any kind of training.

~ Vincent Thibault 35:55

Vincent, a dedicated Buddhist practitioner, engages with Craig in a dynamic conversation encompassing spiritual insights merged with movement philosophy. They discuss the balance between effort and ease within training, stressing the importance of adapting to personal circumstances over time. They touch on Buddhist teachings in the context of physical discipline, emphasizing mindfulness, authentic connection, and embracing change as core tenets of their practice.

[Connection] also means that you could be connected to the people who have been practicing this before you. Whether you’ve learned from the Yamakasi or somebody else, you can acknowledge that. You can appreciate what you’ve received from them. And there’s also connection with the people who will come after you. Because—sorry to deliver the news—but you won’t be there forever and you won’t be coaching forever if you’re a coach. And you won’t be moving in the same way forever, and you don’t know when you’re going to see it.

~ Vincent Thibault 37:30

Throughout their exchange, Vincent and Craig explore the nuances of effort in training, highlighting the significance of finding ease alongside dedication. They go into the broader concept of ‘connection,’ extending beyond physicality to encompass energy levels, environment, and a respectful acknowledgment of both predecessors and successors in the discipline.

They discuss how cultivating internal ease can transcend into disciplined practices, fostering mindfulness and self-acceptance. Vincent underlines the necessity of adaptation, advocating for working with present circumstances rather than fixating on an idealized version of practice.

Takeaways

Effort and Ease — Emphasizing the balance between effort and ease in training, stressing the importance of finding fulfillment in the process rather than solely fixating on results.

Connection Beyond Physicality — The notion of connection expands to encompass various dimensions, including relationships with training partners, acknowledgment of predecessors, and a connection to one’s own energy levels and environment.

Adaptation as Vital — The conversation underscores the significance of adapting to circumstances, encouraging practitioners to work with their current situation rather than against it.

Integration of Buddhist Philosophy — Buddhist principles blend with movement philosophy, highlighting mindfulness, authenticity, and self-acceptance as integral components of disciplined practice.

Authenticity in Practice — Being authentic with oneself and others in training is emphasized, encouraging individuals to be genuine about their abilities, limitations, and present state of being.

Resources

Parkour & Art du déplacement: Lessons in practical wisdom – Leçons de sagesse pratique — Vincent Thibault’s 2015 book discussed in the podcast. The book contains both the French and English text. Don’t confuse it with the similarly named, but completely different book, “Parkour and the Art du déplacement: Strength, Dignity, Community”, published in 2014.

L’Art du déplacement : Quatre-vingt-dix propositions philosophiques sur le franchissement d’obstacles — The 2020, French-language-only, edition of the book discussed in this podcast.

Vincent Thibault on LinkedIn.

Carrefours Azure (French-language site) — Vincent’s book publishing company founded in 2016. Fiction and nonfiction. A small publishing house with an innovative and ecological model: books are printed on demand, in Quebec or in France depending on the customer’s shipping address (no pulping, minimal transportation). For every book sold directly on Carrefours azur’s website, a percentage is given back to a green initiative or a humanitarian cause.

Vincent Thibault (French-language site) — Vincent’s personal web site.

Study inspired by… — A series of blog posts, circa 2015, written by Craig, mentioned in this podcast.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Your attention, please

October 16, 2023

I’ve a strong drive to seek attention. I’ve a desire to be seen as clever. Being clever isn’t the problem; The desire is the problem. Being clever is, sometimes, just the right ingredient to help someone solve a problem. But more often than not, being clever is not helpful.

It’s becoming increasingly clear to me that my work is really about attentional design.

Becoming aware of attention. Shaping and directing it. Shifting its quality and inner experience. Leveraging it to produce work of real value.

~ Tiago Forte from, The Topology of Attention – Forte Labs

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Magic happens when I’m able to cleave the attention-seeking from the useful clever. When I’m able to remove stressors (stressors which invariably are of my own creation) then I’m free to frolic and create. Exhaustion can be a limit. Day-dreaming can be a limit if in excess. But ruminating is a certain road to ruin, every time. I regularly need to aim my attention inward: What specifically am I ruminating about? …and how, surgically, can I cut that out?

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Why with Dave Closson

October 5, 2023

Why – with Dave Closson

What processes and mindsets can individuals adopt to clarify their purpose, improve decision-making, and enhance their effectiveness in both personal and professional contexts?

Decision fatigue and productivity, discipline as a path to freedom, and self-reflection.

Better and better and more efficient and more effective, that’s great. It’s about continuous improvement. But I’ve discovered that it’s not just about getting better at what you do, it’s also about getting smarter about how you do it. That’s where the real freedom comes from. It’s like having a well-oiled machine that runs smoothly, and you don’t have to constantly tinker with it.

~ Dave Closson around 17:16

Craig Constantine and Dave Closson begin with finding one’s “why” and how it drives one’s actions and decisions. They stress that articulating a clear why-statement is key to staying focused and avoiding distractions. The conversation shifts to the role of processes and structure, with both speakers emphasizing that they can be liberating rather than constricting, as they help eliminate decision fatigue. Dave introduces the idea of having meaningful conversations with oneself as a way to navigate complex thoughts and emotions effectively.

Takeaways

The Significance of a Clear “Why” — The importance of having a well-defined purpose or “why” in various aspects of life.

Processes and Structures for Efficiency — Contrary to the notion that processes and structures stifle creativity, their role in providing freedom and reducing decision fatigue is highlighted.

Structured Self-Conversations — Dave introduces the concept of structured self-conversations, a valuable tool for introspection and problem-solving.

Continuous Improvement — The conversation touches on the idea that striving for continuous improvement is not just about getting better at what you do but also getting smarter about how you do it.

Balancing Structure and Flexibility — While processes and structures are valuable, it’s essential to strike a balance between structure and flexibility.

Importance of Restorative Practices — The conversation briefly touches on the significance of restorative practices.

Resources

For more about Dave Closson, see https://daveclosson.com

Simon Sinek’s Start with Why

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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The absurdity of it all

September 10, 2023

When I sit down to journal, it’s usually most productive for me to be prospective; to record my observations on my past actions and thinking with the intention of setting out ideas and plans for self-improvement. But sometimes, right in the middle of a large train of thoughts, I’ll veer into this stream-of-consciousness recording of all the things I did in the previous day. It’s usually a mind-boggling list. And it’s usually only a small portion of the stuff I’d hoped to get to that day. Day after week after month after year this appears in my journals. It’s absurd. I’ll never finish even a fraction of what I daily hope to do. And yet, every day I continue to expend tremendous energy just to appear normal.

It would be easy to conclude that an absurdist view of life rules out happiness and leads anyone with any sense to despair at her very existence. And yet in his book, Camus concludes, “One must imagine Sisyphus happy.” This may seem impossible, but in fact, this unexpected twist in Camus’ philosophy of life and happiness can help you change your perspective and see your daily struggles in a new, more equanimous way.

~ Arthur C. Brooks from, How to Find Joy in Your Sisyphean Existence – The Atlantic

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Fortunately, it’s clear to me that I’m not alone in thinking what I’m doing is absurd. (For example, Jake Gyllenhall touches on it in a great conversation with Sam Jones.)

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Happiness

July 14, 2023

Happiness. I’m inclined to think it is something that arises spontaneously; When I create space within—meaning when I don’t fill my thoughts and actions up with stress and chaos—then sometimes I discover that happiness fills that space. But I can also tell you that it doesn’t always fill that space.

Kahneman contends that happiness and satisfaction are distinct. Happiness is a momentary experience that arises spontaneously and is fleeting. Meanwhile, satisfaction is a long-term feeling, built over time and based on achieving goals and building the kind of life you admire. On the Dec. 19 podcast “Conversations with Tyler,” hosted by economist Tyler Cowen, Kahneman explains that working toward one goal may undermine our ability to experience the other.

~ Ephrat Livni from, Daniel Kahneman explains why most people don’t want to be happy

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Perhaps I don’t understand the difference between the experience of happiness and satisfaction. I can only note that the idea of, “I am satisfied” or “I am not satisfied”, is a necessary part of feeling satisfaction. Have I ever been and felt satisfied? Yes, I’ve definitely experience that. But how is that different from happiness?

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Never reaching the sea

May 16, 2023

What I do now is think up a problem and a resolution to that problem. I then begin the story, making it up as I go along, having all the excitement of finding out what will happen to the characters and how they will get out of their scrapes, but working steadily toward the known resolution so that I don’t get lost en route.

When asked for advice by beginners, I always stress that. Know your ending, I say, or the river of your story may finally sink into the desert sands and never reach the sea.

~ Isaac Asimov

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