How to Build a Meaningful Life

“Life is short.” is a cliche – we say it constantly…but we rarely feel it in a way that compels us to change our behavior. We continue trying to do too much, get distracted by stuff that doesn’t matter (and makes us miserable), and put off our real dreams until “someday” when we have more time, focus, money, whatever. This week at The Brainy Business , we are focused on helping you to overcome those tendencies and do more of what matters today, before it’s too late.

The Science of Goal Setting

We began the week by discussing one of my favorite things: the psychology of goals. I shared strategies for overcoming your brain's natural resistance to change and how to set goals that actually stick. Two of the most important things are to 1) break large goals down into micro-steps and 2) get really good at saying "no" or “not yet” to distractions. Brainy Tip: Set up “Not Yet” folders in your email, other virtual filing, and even for physical notes, ideas, and opportunities. Knowing those are waiting for you when the time is right can keep you from getting distracted in the moment, allowing you to focus on your goals, today.

Today, I had the pleasure of speaking with Oliver Burkeman , author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals to discuss his new book Meditations for Mortals. Don’t let the name fool you – this isn’t a list of 50 different ways to say “Om.” Instead, it is an opportunity to reflect on one key area of life and goals each day for four weeks with a goal of helping you to embrace your limitations and make time for what counts.?

Each week has a theme. We start with Being Finite. This is an opportunity to realize that embracing your finality and that life is imperfect will actually give you the ability to do more of what you love. It’s a beautiful paradox of sorts. Week two is about Taking Action, with daily focuses on things like completing tasks, finding focus in the chaos and (my personal favorite) doing things dailyish. Week three is about Letting Go, and week four focuses on Showing Up. Join us as we explore one day, insight, and opportunity at a time.?

Brainy Thought of the Week

Here’s the thing, we each have an average of just 4000 weeks on earth. How many do you have left? Instead of waiting for “someday” what can you do right now, today (and every day) to cultivate a life you love? You don’t have to do everything all at once, and it doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, that mindset has likely been holding you back. Remember, it's not about achieving everything, it's about living a life that truly matters to you.

And, if you want some more motivation in making that happen…check out my TEDx talk, “There’s Nothing Magical About Monday.”

BE thoughtful,

Melina Palmer