Life Passion And Business

Hey there, it's your midlife coach, Paul Harvey. In today's shortcast, we're taking a closer look at how the stories we tell ourselves shape our lives.  How do you stay in touch with the world events? In these turbulent times, the news and social channels are often more doom and gloom than sunshine and rainbows. And while staying informed is crucial, drowning in negativity doesn't do us any favours. So, how do you stay resilient and reclaim your personal story in a world that seems to profit from keeping you anxious? We're diving deep into why the modern media is more about capturing your attention than reflecting reality. It thrives on fear, outrage, and conflict, turning minor issues into headline news while world peace gets overlooked. The solution is balance; we're not saying to bury your head in the sand. Instead, let's find that sweet spot between being informed and being overwhelmed. Humans are story machines built from what we have heard or experienced. So, that story you believe and tell yourself bec

We all have this natural curiosity to search beyond ourselves, hoping to find some secret sauce or an external solution to the things we yearn for in life. But what if I told you everything you need is already within your reach? That's what we're diving into today on this bite-sized shortcast episode of 'Life, Passion, and Business.'  A recent chat with friends about a pricey retreat sparked something big — the only thing between you and your goals is action! Implementation is often our biggest stumbling block. I get it; it’s a common struggle.  The point we can go to the retreat, the event the training but it will only be as effective as the time we put into implementing what we have discovered. With that knowledge we explore how you could skip the events and still take the course or training.  The point is all of these speakers have books and online content. What if you were to create or find a golden time slot — whether it’s a daily routine or a pocket of quiet — to dive into these resources? Whether you'

There is something that we all face at one time or another – anxiety, loss of equilibrium, how do we find the resilience to ride through life's rollercoasters?  It has been a tough week. How are you holding up in these wildly unpredictable times? Well, you're not alone, and that's exactly what we’re chatting about right here. We've been living in what's often called "unprecedented times", and it’s left many of us feeling a bit off-kilter. Whether it's global news that feels beyond our control or personal struggles closer to home, the trick is defining where our influence lies. Using Stephen Covey's principle of the "Circle of Influence and Circle of Concern", we take a closer look at focusing our energy where it counts the most. We also touch on practical, everyday techniques to maintain your cool. It could be as simple as avoiding constant news bombardment, practising mindfulness, or grounding yourself in the present.  In short, there are small, everyday actions that can make a difference. We wrap it up by d

My guest on the show is an international career coach, but her journey was from a place of no option. Her father's words were the inspiration, “you can be the victim or be victorious.”  She did and launched herself into a job search that led to a $50k salary increase. The show you are about to hear was recorded today; I thought the content is so reliant as we touched on the subjects from the weekend podcast that I had to get to get it out now.  I am talking about blame culture and identity politics, a topic we are all too familiar with.    Wendy Alexander grew up in South Africa to mixed-race parents and was defined as coloured, which meant her life and opportunities were restricted because of the colour of their skin. Her father was a fantastic role model, he taught the children how to survive in the system. However, he and his wife bravely moved the family from South Africa to Australia. That meant starting again from the bottom; this was 1987, and apartheid South Africa restricted what you could take out

Have you ever felt weighed down by the blame game, whether from the news headlines or those everyday personal interactions? In this episode of Life, Passion, and Business, I'm diving into this very topic, challenging us to rethink how we perceive blame, responsibility, and, ultimately, our own potential for growth. You know how the world feels pretty chaotic these days, with politics seeming like a never-ending blame fest? It's not just about pointing fingers; it's become a clever tool for evading responsibility. But that's not where the story ends—in fact, it's just the beginning. I'm inviting you to take a more personal turn. Think about the stories you tell yourself and how they could be shaped by the culture of blame around us. Could there be a more empowered narrative waiting for you? By stepping back and considering our own roles in life’s mishaps, we open the door to personal growth and stronger relationships. Let's chat about it: Do you find yourself sometimes on the defensive, quick to point out not

Lets talk is all about figuring out where you stand between consuming and creating in your life. On this show, we touch on how easy it is to slip into the endless consumption loop—be it binge-watching series, doom scrolling on your phone, or even consuming educational content without applying it. It's a common trap and one I've fallen into myself. But here's the thing: while consumption can often offer a much-needed release, especially in a stressful world, it shouldn’t overshadow our creative endeavours. Whether it’s building a business, crafting a piece of art, or even tidying up your space, creativity is what propels us forward in life. It's about making sure there's more creation in our days than mere consumption. I mean, wouldn’t you agree that we often feel more fulfilled and in control after creating something, no matter how small? The conversation zeroes in on this balance and challenges us to reflect on how we're spending our time. So, my challenge for you today is to assess your own consumption-crea

How do you measure your day? What does it take to craft the perfect day? Think about it—what makes a day perfect? Is it money, satisfaction, or the precious time well-spent? Perhaps it's something else entirely! I'm Paul Harvey, a midlife coach, and my opinion has long been that our stories shape everything we do, feel, or experience. Let's explore how our daily rituals and little surprises can bring us closer to those perfect moments. Let's admit it, we all have those 'blah' days where nothing seems right. But have you ever sat down to actually define what a perfect day looks like for you? For some, it's lounging in bed with a book; for others, it’s a cozy café with a pot of Earl Grey. Let's question if that image holds true every single day. What if perfection isn't an everyday occurrence but an extraordinary happenstance? I’ve had chats with people who often realize in hindsight that a surprise or unexpected twist made their day perfect—an uplifting conversation, a random act of kindness, or just sipping a

We all have a history, a biography that we've been scripting as we move along. Some parts are new chapters written in the moment, while others are well-trodden paths we can't alter. Yet, even within this framework, we choose how we let our past influence our future. It's true life can be unpredictable and sometimes a bit daunting, like an aeroplane constantly adjusting its course to stay on target. Despite the track behind us being unchangeable, the journey forward is ours to navigate. So, why not be selective about which parts of your past take the front seat in your life's vehicle? Over the last six years, hundreds of guests have shared their life stories with me, opening up about the decisions that allowed them to take charge of their history rather than be steered by it. Their stories are a testament to the power of choice in our personal narratives. After all, everyone sees the world from their unique vantage point, and what seems like a mountain to one might be a molehill to another. Of course, some bur

Have you ever wondered if joy is something you actively chase or simply stumble upon? I was with a group this morning and we were exploring how joy is felt and experienced it was wonderful to hear so many takes on the importants of finding joy and its impact of daily life.  I had the opportunity to reminisce about a heartfelt story from 2011, where an unexpected detour with my son turned into a magical memory full of laughter and love. In this episode, we will explore how to rediscover that childlike wonder and the power of surprise in sparking joy. In the hustle of adulthood, joy often seems elusive. But can we cultivate it by being present and mindful? Let’s explore together how, even amidst life’s chaos, simple practices like gratitude can rekindle that spark. After all, finding joy is about noticing the sensational ‘now’—whether it’s a surprise encounter or enjoying a solitary cup of coffee. So, let’s connect, chat, and find out how you can become the master of your own joy! Remember, life isn’t just ab

On this pod, we're tackling one of life's biggest constants—change. Have you ever felt the world spinning a bit too fast under your feet? Maybe it's the political upheaval as a new President steps into the White House tomorrow, promising shifts that have left many of us holding our breath. But beyond the headlines and politics, change is an inevitable part of our personal lives, too. Whether it's a child's rapid growth, career shifts, or even the unexpected losses we endure, change knocks on our door almost daily, challenging our desire for stability. Together, let's explore how we can build resilience to cope and thrive amidst this ever-changing landscape. I'll share personal anecdotes, like my journey with my son's growth, which taught me to embrace the beauty of life's constant evolution. It's a reminder that even as life throws us curveballs, there's always something valuable to learn and adapt to. In this episode, I also touch on the daunting task of dealing with change in conflict zones—an area beyond m

Have you ever caught yourself drifting away in a conversation, waiting for your turn to speak rather than truly listening? You're not alone! We're wired to swing between past memories and future possibilities, but the real magic happens right here, right now, in the present moment. This episode is all about exploring what it means to truly be present and how powerful it can be. Imagine having all your resources at your fingertips, ready to transform every interaction and experience. Active listening plays a big part here, as well as allowing ourselves a little breather—literally. Just a few deep breaths before reacting can make all the difference, whether in a simple chat or a high-stakes meeting. We'll dive into the importance of heartful engagement, whether it's stopping to take that refreshing 'mind wash' in between meetings or recognizing triggers when your mind wanders. Think of it as hitting the reset button for clarity and focus. Being present is a game-changer—it grounds us, keeps us real, and shines

Happy New Year!

It is the last Sunday of 2024, and we're nestled in the cosy time known as Betwixtmas - that calm lull between Christmas and New Year's Eve. But instead of the usual resolution-filled chatter, let's flip the script and focus on what you truly want in life. This is the perfect time to pause and reflect on what really makes your heart sing. Gone are the days of blindly chasing goals set during a New Year's champagne toast. Instead, consider what actually brings you joy. Was it simple moments with family or perhaps triumph at work? Let's shed the facade and focus on what matters. For 2025, it's about setting intentions, not rigid resolutions. Craft a list of what you want and why it matters to you. Use this newfound clarity to steer your year toward fulfilment and enrichment. It's about balance—balancing health, relationships, and work. Join me in ushering a calm, inspiring new year.  Let's support each other in this journey. If today’s conversation resonated with you, pass it on to a friend who needs to hear i

This time last year, I started the Million Dollar Experiment, a program developed by Joanna Hunter with a view to creating a million dollars in one year.   So did it happen?  I am exploring the journey on the show with Jane Duncan Rogers, an old podcast friend. As we did this year together, it seems natural to explore our discoveries together.  This was a transformative year for Jane, not just for her participation in the intriguing Million Dollar Experiment but there were some profound shifts in perspective it prompted. In this candid conversation, Paul and Jane discuss the real measures of abundance and freedom that transcended beyond just monetary gains. It's not just about chasing the million dollars but exploring one's relationship with money, understanding personal freedom, and appreciating the richness in experiences and relationships. Jane shares how this experiment challenged her beliefs about money and sparked a deeper spiritual journey. Her insights into gratitude and the power of mindset are bo

Hello, my dear friend! Have you ever paused to think about the remarkable impact that appreciation can have on our lives? Like my experience this week, attending two community meetings highlighted this very point. The first was a vision and planning meeting by a new board looking to bring a fresh opportunity. However, it became tense and confrontational as some members were more interested in tearing plans apart than building new paths for the future, driven perhaps by a fear of change. At the second gathering, the managing team made amends for errors, acknowledging their missteps.  In both cases, it was not the challenge that was the problem it was the delivery. It made me wonder why criticising is often easier than appreciating. Appreciation is a powerful tool. It’s that warm smile and acknowledgement that can turn tension into teamwork. In the world of public speaking, like Toastmasters, appreciation is the tool used to deliver feedback. It follows the 'commend, recommend, commend' approach – perfecting

Every December, I craft a family newsletter that lets us peek back at the journey we've been on throughout the year. It's more than just a factual account. It’s our story, filled with the highs, lows, and everything in between. Thinking back, the winter solstice plays a significant role in this reflective process for me. It symbolizes the return of the light, making December the perfect time for looking back and planning our next adventures. Can you imagine tracing the lines of your own narrative, seeing the threads that connect your past with your future? So, how about you give it a try? Even if newsletters make you yawn, taking a moment to ponder your year can be a transformative experience. What stood out for you? What were your big takeaways? And if you felt underwhelmed, what might you change moving forward? Anyway, if you ever want to chat about this or need a little nudge, you know where to find me. And don't forget to swing by lifepassionandbusiness.com; there are tons of resources there to help with

I was listening to the Cleaning Up podcast this week, and the guest was Rory Sutherland, the Vice Chair at Ogilvy UK. I will put a link to the podcast below. The conversation was about everything I dislike about the marketing industry. It is an industry where money is more important than morals or outcomes and consequences. It reminded me of a refreshing marketing conversation I had with Sarah Santacroce some three years back. In my opinion, all marketing must be based on integrity and the desire for what is right, not just what makes money. Sarah has been on a simular journey and devised her solution. Gentle Marketing.    The Cleaning Up Podcast https://www.podbean.com/media/share/dir-vk5vy-22508372 -----------------------------------------------------------------  When I first spoke to Sarah Santacroce, she introduced herself as the Hippie turned Business Coach, which gave me visions of VW Beetles and flowers, so I was instantly hooked and intrigued to learn more. As you will hear, Sarah has a lovely Eu

We need to talk about success. Society, politics, and the media are mesmerised by it, yet most of us never take the time to understand what it means.  From childhood achievements like learning to talk to adult milestones, how we define and measure success shapes our entire journey. Have you ever wondered whether your version of success is truly yours or merely a reflection of societal pressures? It's about moving beyond the numbers game and finding true fulfilment. Whether it’s financial stability, nurturing relationships, or personal well-being, different areas of life offer varied success metrics, each tied to your true values. Join me to explore what makes you feel successful beyond what money can buy. Let’s rethink success as we share this thought-provoking journey. And, take a moment to consider what success means to you—how do you measure it? Let’s redefine the narrative together.   If you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend. As with all of these topics, this is a subjective expl

A reprise from this time last year on the issues of credibility. It has been a funny few weeks. What with elections and media stuff? I mean funny and peculiar, not Ha Ha! It made me reflect on the issues of credibility in politics and media.  What has changed? What is the credibility formula? It had me thinking about this recording with Mitchell Levy and his research. So let's step back and year rediscover the secrets of credibility. Is your credibility important? You certainly need to feel you are, but more importantly, Are you Credible? Because your potential clients need to believe it first. But how do we get there?  Our guest on the show this week is Mitchell Levy from Credibility Nation. As you will hear, we both discovered and learned much from this conversation. Mitchell Levy has had a long and classically successful business career, from banking to internet systems. He has several publishing companies that support business leaders in writing books and has written over 60 of his own. He has spoken at

Hey there! Have you ever paused to think about time as the one precious resource we just can't negotiate? No matter how much we talk about saving or preserving it, time keeps marching on. In this exciting shortcast, I’m Paul Harvey, your midlife coach, here to dive deep into the art and science of time management. We’ll explore what makes life tick and how you can make time your ally. Interestingly, we often find ourselves either wasting time or managing it fiercely. My friends in the business world will tell you time management is critical for productivity. But today, I want to focus on personal time—the time that truly belongs to you. Whether it's nurturing relationships, earning a living, or maintaining your health, striking a balance among these pillars is crucial. We'll examine how we spend our days, weeks, and even lifetimes. With 168 hours in a week, how much time is left after sleep and the necessary daily routines? How do you allocate your time for work, relationships, and health? These are pivotal q