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Why Self-Improvement Is Holding You Back | Oliver Burkeman
Manage episode 469341870 series 2468001
Oliver Burkeman joins us to explore the power of imperfectionism and why waiting for the “perfect moment” is a trap. We discuss how perfectionism, productivity myths, and self-improvement frameworks can hold us back—and why embracing uncertainty is the key to doing meaningful work. Whether you’re looking to improve daily habits or rethink your approach to time and purpose, this conversation will inspire you to take action despite life’s inevitable messiness.
©2025 Behavioral Grooves
Topics[00:00] Introduction & Why We Wait for the Perfect Moment
[4:15] Meet Oliver Burkeman: Author of Meditations for Mortals
[9:40] The Illusion of Control & The Productivity Trap
[15:30] What “Imperfectionism” Really Means
[22:45] Why Life Isn’t a Problem to Be Solved
[30:10] How Small Actions Create Big Meaning
[38:00] The Power of Letting Go & Taking the First Step
[45:50] Oliver’s Music Picks & The Importance of Everyday Moments
[1:00:00] Grooving Session: Final Takeaways & How to Apply This Philosophy Today
©2025 Behavioral Grooves
LinksMeditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts
Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals
Join the Behavioral Grooves community
Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube
Musical LinksThe Divine Comedy - To The Rescue
489 episodes
Manage episode 469341870 series 2468001
Oliver Burkeman joins us to explore the power of imperfectionism and why waiting for the “perfect moment” is a trap. We discuss how perfectionism, productivity myths, and self-improvement frameworks can hold us back—and why embracing uncertainty is the key to doing meaningful work. Whether you’re looking to improve daily habits or rethink your approach to time and purpose, this conversation will inspire you to take action despite life’s inevitable messiness.
©2025 Behavioral Grooves
Topics[00:00] Introduction & Why We Wait for the Perfect Moment
[4:15] Meet Oliver Burkeman: Author of Meditations for Mortals
[9:40] The Illusion of Control & The Productivity Trap
[15:30] What “Imperfectionism” Really Means
[22:45] Why Life Isn’t a Problem to Be Solved
[30:10] How Small Actions Create Big Meaning
[38:00] The Power of Letting Go & Taking the First Step
[45:50] Oliver’s Music Picks & The Importance of Everyday Moments
[1:00:00] Grooving Session: Final Takeaways & How to Apply This Philosophy Today
©2025 Behavioral Grooves
LinksMeditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts
Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals
Join the Behavioral Grooves community
Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube
Musical LinksThe Divine Comedy - To The Rescue
489 episodes
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