Do you ever feel like your life is so busy? With no time to just ‘do’ or ‘be’?
This conversation will help you rethink how you approach being busy.
This week on Live Well Be Well, we’re joined by Oliver Burkeman, the bestselling author behind Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and Meditations for Mortals. In this episode, Oliver dives into the productivity paradox, questioning why our endless drive to “do more” often leaves us feeling less fulfilled.
With a perspective that challenges conventional ideas about success, Oliver shares how letting go of the need to get it all done can lead to genuine peace and satisfaction. His insights reveal how self-compassion and embracing imperfection can transform the way we approach each day, shifting us from constant busyness to choosing what truly matters with the time we have.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by to-do lists or found yourself wondering if there’s more to life than ticking off tasks, this episode is for you.
Join us as Oliver offers both inspiration and practical advice for making every week count.
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- The Paradox of Productivity "More productivity doesn’t mean more peace.” Something to think about Chasing productivity can become counterproductive. True peace comes from understanding that the endless quest to “do it all” is an illusion; contentment lies in focusing on what truly matters.
- The Futility of Endless To-Do Lists "If you’re working against an infinite to-do list, you’ll never feel complete.” Something to think about: Constantly adding to our to-do lists can trap us in a cycle of dissatisfaction. Instead, prioritise what genuinely enriches your life and let go of the rest.
- Embracing Life’s Finite Nature "We’re only given around 4,000 weeks.” Something to think about: Life’s brevity is a reminder to align our actions with our values. Use your limited time intentionally rather than being consumed by trivial demands.
- Letting Go of Control "Trying to control everything is exhausting and impossible.” Something to consider: The drive to control every outcome leads to burnout and stress. Accepting what’s beyond our control can free us to focus on what we can genuinely impact.
- Self-Compassion as Essential Growth “Treat yourself as you would a friend.” Something to think about: Self-compassion isn’t about indulgence; it’s about fostering a kind, supportive inner voice. This shift can improve your resilience and motivation.
- Redefining Success with the ‘Done List’ "Celebrate what you’ve achieved, not just what’s left to do.” Something to think about: Focusing on accomplishments rather than unmet goals can reinforce a positive mindset, helping you feel fulfilled at the end of each day.
- The Value of Small Wins "Celebrate your small wins, too.” Something to think about: Acknowledging small victories can shift your mindset from “not enough” to “progress.” This daily recognition builds self-trust and joy along the journey.
- Finding Freedom in Acceptance "When we let go of impossible expectations, we find freedom.” Something to think about: Accepting life as it is, rather than how we wish it to be, allows us to live more freely and experience greater happiness and fulfilment in the present moment.
Give it a listen HERE or watch on YouTube
