Fierce self-discipline needs self-kindness

Falling off a goal is normal. Knowing how to get back on track—without shame or drama—is the real skill. I’m hosting a free 60-minute live workshop on Tuesday, January 27 at 7pm ET to teach a simple framework for getting unstuck. Register now for ⁠⁠Falling Off is Part of It: The Framework for Getting Back on Track (Without the Drama)⁠⁠!

In this episode, Brad Stulberg explores how to cultivate excellence in a chaotic world. He explains how excellence is a lifelong practice rooted in daily effort, presence, and values, not a final achievement. Brad also discusses the importance of process over outcome, balancing ambition with self-kindness, and finding meaning through consistent, value-driven actions. The conversation also covers overcoming burnout, the illusion of perfect balance, and how to live intentionally in a chaotic world, offering practical advice for cultivating fulfillment and true greatness in everyday life.

Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, ⁠⁠How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!⁠⁠

Key Takeaways:

• The concept of excellence as a continuous practice rather than a fixed destination.
• The transformative nature of pursuing goals and its impact on character and personal growth.
• The importance of a process mindset, focusing on daily efforts and consistency.
• The metaphor of "feeding the good wolf" to emphasize nurturing positive qualities.
• The balance between striving for outcomes and being present in the process.
• The significance of measuring effort over outcomes for sustained progress.
• The idea of "raising the floor" to improve performance on average days.
• The role of care and commitment in achieving excellence.
• The distinction between meaningful engagement and the pitfalls of comfort and convenience.
• The necessity of intentional living and effort in a chaotic, technology-driven world.

For full show notes: ⁠click here⁠!

If you enjoyed this conversation with Brad Stulberg, check out these other episodes:

The Practice of Groundedness with Brad Stulberg

Mindfulness and Understanding Identity with Cory Allen

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Check out ⁠Mountains to Cross ⁠by Dr. Abraham George. It’s the story of how a life built on success was redirected toward compassion, and how that choice led to the founding of Shanti Bhavan, a school helping children break free from generational poverty. Find it wherever books are sold.

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