Start with Small Steps

214 - Unlocking ADHD Superpowers In this episode, I’m sharing how I’ve learned to see my ADHD not as a struggle, but as a set of superpowers that help me succeed in life. Growing up, I faced a lot of misunderstandings about what ADHD really is, but over time, I discovered that the way my brain works gives me unique strengths. From hyperfocus to creativity and resilience, I’ll talk about the positive sides of ADHD and how I’ve learned to lean into them. If you've ever felt like ADHD was holding you back, this episode is for you. Hyperfocus – My Secret Weapon for ProductivityOne of the biggest strengths of my ADHD is hyperfocus. When I’m interested in something, I can tune out the world and get lost in it for hours. Whether it's working on my podcast, organizing my YouTube channel, or diving into a creative project, my hyperfocus allows me to accomplish a ton in a short period of time. But I’ve also learned that it’s important to direct that focus towards the right things—something I still work on every day. Creativity – Thinking Outside the BoxMy ADHD brain is always bursting with ideas. Whether it’s finding new ways to solve problems, coming up with creative content, or brainstorming fresh approaches, I see the world differently. This creativity has helped me stand out in my career and personal life, and I’ve found ways to harness it by writing down my ideas and revisiting them when I need inspiration. Resilience – Bouncing Back from ChallengesLiving with ADHD means constantly facing obstacles, from forgetfulness to impulsivity. But over the years, I’ve developed a level of resilience that helps me push through and keep going. I’ve learned how to adapt quickly and find solutions, even when things don’t go as planned. This ability to pivot and stay flexible has been one of my greatest assets. High Energy – Embracing EnthusiasmI have a lot of energy, and when I’m excited about something, I go all in. My enthusiasm helps me tackle projects, connect with people, and stay motivated. Whether it's work, hobbies, or new challenges, I bring a level of passion and excitement that keeps me moving forward. Of course, I’ve learned to manage this energy by balancing it with rest and mindfulness when needed. Emotional Awareness – Understanding People on a Deeper LevelWhile ADHD can sometimes make me seem distracted, I’m actually very intuitive and emotionally aware. I pick up on subtle social cues and care deeply about the people around me. My ability to connect with others and offer support has become one of my strongest qualities, even if I don’t always show it in conventional ways. Takeaways:-ADHD comes with incredible strengths like hyperfocus, creativity, and resilience.-Learning to work with my ADHD instead of against it has been life-changing.-Finding the right balance between energy and focus is key to success.-Support from friends and understanding my own needs has made a big difference in how I manage ADHD in everyday life. Join me in this episode as I celebrate the superpowers of ADHD and share tips on how you can harness yours too! Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJillday https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

213 - ADHD Roadmap to Victories In this episode, I share my personal journey of managing ADHD and turning its challenges into strengths. From my chaotic childhood to my organized adult life, I discuss the tools, habits, and strategies that have helped me succeed. Along the way, I highlight the importance of small steps, incremental change, and embracing ADHD as a unique way of thinking. Whether you’re navigating your own ADHD journey or supporting someone who is, this episode is filled with practical insights and encouragement to help you thrive. Recognizing ADHD StrugglesI talk about how ADHD affected me growing up in a disorganized home with minimal support. From procrastination to time blindness, I highlight the key challenges I faced and how they shaped my early approach to school and life. The Power of Small StepsBreaking big tasks into smaller, actionable steps changed everything for me. I explain how focusing on one step at a time helped me tackle overwhelming projects like research papers and big deadlines. Tools and Technology That Changed My LifeFrom Todoist to Notion, I dive into the digital tools that have brought structure and clarity to my life. I share how I use time blocking, color-coded notes, and multiple reminders to stay on track. Managing Emotions and ImpulsivityI explore techniques I’ve used to handle emotional responses and impulsive tendencies. Whether it’s pausing before reacting or waiting before making a purchase, these strategies have helped me gain control over my decisions. Turning ADHD into a StrengthInstead of seeing ADHD as a limitation, I’ve learned to use its unique traits, like hyperfocus and creativity, to my advantage. I discuss how reframing ADHD as a strength has improved my work, relationships, and overall happiness. Takeaways -Small Changes Make a Big Impact: Start by making one or two small adjustments, like organizing your workspace or adopting a digital task manager.-Experiment with Tools: Find apps, routines, and strategies that work for your lifestyle, and don’t be afraid to tweak them as needed.-Leverage Your Strengths: ADHD comes with unique advantages, such as creativity and energy. Recognize these and use them to your benefit.-Embrace Accountability: Tie your goals to others, whether it’s a friend, coworker, or coach. Accountability can keep you motivated and on track.-Be Kind to Yourself: Managing ADHD is a journey. Progress takes time, but with persistence, it’s possible to thrive. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/213-adhd-roadmap-to-victories/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJillday https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Living with ADHD: My Journey to Understanding In this episode, I open up about my personal journey with ADHD, a condition that’s been both a challenge and a unique part of who I am. From my restless childhood to my career as an adult navigating deadlines, relationships, and responsibilities, I share the ups, downs, and surprising discoveries I’ve made along the way. ADHD isn’t just about being distracted or hyper—it’s about learning how to manage a brain that works a little differently. I’ll take you through what it’s like to live with ADHD, what I’ve learned about myself, and how I’ve found strategies that actually work. - What ADHD Feels Like from the Inside:I describe what it was like growing up with ADHD before I even knew what it was. From constant fidgeting to disappearing into my "happy place," I share how these traits shaped my childhood and how I learned to navigate them. - Hyperfocus, Inattention, and Time Blindness:ADHD isn’t just about being easily distracted. I dive into how hyperfocus and time blindness have impacted my life—sometimes helping me achieve big things and other times making me feel stuck. - The Emotional Side of ADHD:The frustration of being labeled “lazy” or “unfocused” when I was really trying my best weighed heavily on me. I talk about how those feelings affected my self-esteem and how I’ve worked to reframe my relationship with ADHD. - Tools and Strategies That Changed My Life:I share how tools like planners, apps, and external accountability helped me find structure in the chaos. These strategies didn’t just make my life easier—they helped me embrace my strengths. Takeaways: 1. You’re Not Alone in This: ADHD looks different for everyone, but the struggles are real and shared. There’s no shame in seeking help or finding creative ways to cope.2. Small Steps Lead to Big Changes: Whether it’s setting up a simple to-do list or finding a supportive community, small actions can create meaningful progress.3. Focus on What Works for You: From embracing technology to leaning into what motivates me, I’ve learned that it’s about finding solutions that fit your life—not trying to mold yourself into someone else’s idea of “normal.” Closing Thoughts:I hope my story inspires you to rethink how you approach ADHD—whether it’s your own or someone else’s. It’s not about “fixing” yourself; it’s about finding what works and creating a life that fits you. If you’d like to share your story or ask me questions, email me at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com. Let’s navigate this journey together!https://startwithsmallsteps.com/living-with-adhd-my-journey-to-understanding/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJillday https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

211 - Why Scrooge’s Transformation Resonates Today In this festive episode, we explore the timeless themes and moral lessons of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. From Ebenezer Scrooge's dramatic transformation to the significance of generosity, community, and self-reflection, this story has much to teach us about living meaningful lives. Join us as we break down the pivotal moments of the tale, reflect on its modern applications, and celebrate the enduring charm of this holiday classic. The Story of Ebenezer ScroogeWe unpack the journey of a man who transforms from a cold-hearted miser to a generous soul after being visited by three spirits. Scrooge’s path from selfishness to selflessness serves as a powerful reminder that change is always possible. The Three Ghosts and Their SymbolismDiscover the roles of the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Each spirit challenges Scrooge to reflect on his life, confront his choices, and consider the legacy he wishes to leave behind. Dickens' Social CommentaryLearn how Charles Dickens used A Christmas Carol to address social issues of Victorian England, from poverty to the plight of factory workers, and how these themes resonate in today's world. Applying the Lessons to Modern LifeWhether it’s embracing generosity, fostering relationships, or reflecting on our own lives, the lessons of A Christmas Carol remain profoundly relevant. We discuss actionable ways to carry the story’s spirit into our daily routines. Takeaways:-Redemption is always possible. Scrooge’s transformation shows that with self-reflection and effort, we can change our lives for the better.-Generosity is a gift that multiplies. Helping others enriches not only their lives but also ours, fostering deeper connections and purpose.-Time is precious. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones or using our days to make meaningful contributions, A Christmas Carol reminds us to value the present.-Ignorance and want must be addressed. Dickens’ warning about societal neglect remains crucial—education and support for the vulnerable are more important than ever. Closing Thoughts:This episode highlights why A Christmas Carol continues to inspire readers and viewers after nearly two centuries. Its message of compassion and transformation reminds us that the true spirit of Christmas—and life itself—lies in kindness, love, and redemption. Let the timeless story of Scrooge encourage you to embrace the joy and generosity of the holiday season, and carry that spirit with you all year long. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/211-why-scrooges-transformation-resonates-today/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

210 - Turning Lemons into Success In this episode, we dive into the inspiring ideas presented in Zach Friedman’s book, The Lemonade Life: How to Create Success, Create Happiness, and Conquer Anything. We explore how self-awareness, resilience, and purposeful action can transform your life. From breaking free of the comparison trap to experimenting with new ideas, Friedman’s insights provide a fresh perspective on building a fulfilling life. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure how to achieve your goals, this episode offers practical steps to help you move forward. Escaping the Joneses TrapOne of the first lessons in The Lemonade Life is breaking free from the cycle of comparison. Trying to "keep up with the Joneses" often leads to dissatisfaction, as we rarely see the full picture of others' lives. Instead of chasing external validation, Friedman urges us to focus inward and align our actions with what truly matters to us. The Importance of Self-AwarenessFriedman emphasizes the critical role of self-awareness in achieving happiness and success. By asking ourselves questions like "What makes me happy?" and "What unique talents can I share with the world?" we can create a life that feels authentic and rewarding. This section of the podcast discusses practical steps to cultivate self-awareness and align it with your goals. Life as an ExperimentSuccess rarely follows a straight line. Friedman suggests treating life as an experiment, where failures and missteps are opportunities to learn and grow. We explore how trying new approaches, analyzing results, and adjusting your strategies can pave the way for personal and professional breakthroughs. Navigating Life with a CompassInstead of relying on rigid plans, Friedman advocates for using a compass to guide your direction. This metaphorical compass helps you stay true to your North Star—your values and long-term goals—while adapting to life’s inevitable twists and turns. In this segment, we discuss how a compass-based mindset encourages flexibility and resilience. Committing to Plan AOne of Friedman’s boldest ideas is abandoning the safety net of Plan B. While this doesn’t mean taking reckless risks, it emphasizes the power of fully committing to your primary goal. We discuss how focusing on Plan A allows you to channel your energy and creativity into making your dreams a reality. Key Takeaways: -Stop comparing your life to others and start focusing on your unique path.-Self-awareness is the foundation of success—discover what truly matters to you.-Life is a series of experiments; embrace failure as part of the process.-Use a compass to navigate your journey, focusing on direction rather than a fixed path.-Commit fully to your primary goal and avoid diluting your efforts with fallback plans.Final Thoughts: The Lemonade Life isn’t about reaching a perfect destination—it’s about enjoying the journey, learning from challenges, and celebrating small wins along the way. Take a moment to reflect on your personal compass. What’s ahead of you? What lessons have you learned from your past? What inspires you, and what holds you back? If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, share it with friends, and leave a comment. For questions or feedback, reach out to us at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com. Let’s keep turning life’s lemons into success and happiness, one step at a time. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/210-turning-lemons-into-success/ https://www.zackfriedman.com/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

209 - The Lemonade vs. Lemon Life We’re diving into the idea of turning life’s lemons into lemonade, inspired by Zach Friedman’s book, The Lemonade Life: How to Fuel Success, Create Happiness, and Conquer Anything. We’ll explore how to shift from a passive, “Lemon Life” mindset to an empowering “Lemonade Life,” where you take charge and thrive. I’ll also share personal reflections, practical tools like the PRISM framework, and insights into overcoming common personality pitfalls that hold us back. Get ready to learn how embracing risks and building the right mindset can transform your life! I break down what it means to live a Lemon Life, where you’re reactive and stuck, versus a Lemonade Life, where you’re proactive and intentional. We all have the power to choose how we approach life’s challenges.The PRISM Framework Perspective, Risk, Independence, Self-Awareness, and Motion—this is your roadmap to creating happiness and success. I talk about how each of these elements can help you reframe setbacks and take meaningful steps forward.Recognizing Personality Pitfalls Are you an External Excuser, Steady Settler, Daring Disruptor, or Change Chaser? I discuss how these tendencies can hold you back and share tips to overcome them.The Power of Happiness and Teamwork Happiness isn’t something you wait for; it’s something you cultivate first. I also highlight the importance of finding your “wolf pack”—the supportive people who help you succeed. Learning from FailureFailure isn’t the end of the road. It’s a stepping stone to success. I share personal stories about how setbacks shaped my journey and why risk-taking is essential to growth. Takeaways:Start shifting your mindset today—what challenges can you reframe as opportunities?Figure out which personality type might be holding you back and take small steps to change those habits.Don’t wait to find happiness. Start by building gratitude and joy right now.Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, and make sure you’re supporting them too.Embrace failure as part of the process—it’s the best teacher for long-term success. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/209-the-lemonade-vs-lemon-life/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

208 - Simple Ways to Feel at Home in Any Place In this episode, we explore This Is Where You Belong by Melanie Warnick, a book that examines how to create a sense of belonging no matter where you live. The host reflects on her own journey to embrace her town, which has never felt like home, and Warnick’s practical advice for fostering connection, appreciation, and engagement within one’s community. The Illusion of “Elsewhere”: We often believe we’d be happier in a new place, but the reality is that happiness depends more on our perspective and community than location. Warnick’s insight helps dismantle the myth that a move will “solve everything.” The Power of Knowing Your Neighbors: Engaging with neighbors creates a feeling of community and security. Building connections can be as simple as a friendly hello or lending a hand. When neighbors help each other, a town feels much more like home. Exploring the Local Scene: Discovering the unique offerings of your area—parks, markets, eateries, and historic spots—provides a fresh view and appreciation for where you live. Even if you’ve been in the area for years, Warnick suggests there’s always something new to explore. Volunteering and Community Involvement: Engaging in community work helps you feel part of something bigger and more invested in the local area. Volunteering or joining a club can be transformative for both you and the community. Developing a Routine: Frequenting a favorite coffee shop, park, or walking route creates familiarity and a sense of belonging. Finding small routines that connect you to the place can make any location feel more comfortable and “yours.” Takeaways-Feeling at home is often about mindset more than physical location.-Building local connections and engaging in local activities can help transform a place into a beloved home.-Seeing the uniqueness of a place—the people, traditions, and sights—fosters a genuine appreciation for it.-Small efforts to connect with others and engage in the community can make you feel rooted no matter where you are. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/208-being-at-home-where-you-live/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

207 - Transforming Overthinking With A New Soundtrack In today’s episode, we explore John Acuff’s Soundtracks: A Surprising Solution to Overthinking. Acuff dives into the idea that we are the stories we tell ourselves, and how these internal "soundtracks" can either propel us forward or hold us back. We discuss the importance of recognizing negative soundtracks, retiring them, and replacing them with positive ones. Whether it’s perfectionism or fear of failure, Acuff’s advice offers practical steps to stop overthinking and start achieving your goals. Identifying Broken Soundtracks: Acuff explains how negative soundtracks are often so ingrained in our minds that we don’t even notice them. We explore how to identify these self-sabotaging thoughts and why they are so destructive. Neuroplasticity and the Power to Change: A key concept in Soundtracks is neuroplasticity—the idea that our brains are capable of change at any age. This gives us the ability to rewrite our mental playlists and adopt more positive beliefs. Taking Action to Overcome Overthinking: The episode highlights how taking even the smallest action can disrupt the cycle of overthinking. By focusing on what we can do, rather than what we fear, we build confidence and momentum. Takeaways:Your thoughts shape your actions: Negative soundtracks can hold you back, but recognizing and replacing them is key to overcoming overthinking.Neuroplasticity empowers change: It’s never too late to rewire your brain and adopt healthier thought patterns.Action disrupts overthinking: Start small, take action, and watch your confidence grow. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/207-transforming-overthinking-with-a-new-soundtrack/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

206 - Meet New People and Build Lasting Friendships In this episode, we explore how to make new friends and build lasting relationships in a world where social connections have become harder to maintain. Inspired by Start With Hello by Shannon Martin, we discuss how small steps can lead to big changes in your social life. Whether you’re looking to rebuild connections lost during the pandemic or find new ways to meet people, this episode offers practical advice on how to start. The Power of Hello: How something as simple as greeting your neighbors can create opportunities for connection.Conversation Starters: Turning everyday events like buying a new car into ways to meet new people.Joining Clubs or Hobbies: How participating in group activities or hobbies helps form connections with like-minded people.The Challenge of Social Endurance: Recognizing that not every attempt to make friends will succeed, but persistence is key.The Importance of Vulnerability: Authenticity and openness are crucial in building strong, lasting friendships. Takeaways:Start Small: Meeting new people doesn’t require grand gestures—just saying “hello” is often the first step. Be Consistent: Building friendships takes time and requires patience and endurance. Not every interaction will lead to a lasting connection, but some will. Be Genuine: Friendships are built on authenticity, so approach new relationships with openness and curiosity rather than a need to impress. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/206-meet-new-people-and-build-lasting-friendships/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

205 - Harnessing Military Brat Lessons In this episode, we talk about Harris Faulkner’s book Nine Rules of Engagement, where she shares life lessons gleaned from growing up in a military family. Faulkner reflects on how military values such as resilience, teamwork, and integrity have shaped her approach to personal success. These principles are not just for soldiers but can be applied to everyday life to achieve success, overcome challenges, and develop inner strength. Trust in Your Potential: Faulkner emphasizes how military life fosters a sense of self-reliance and potential. Boot camp is more than just physical endurance—it’s about pushing mental and emotional boundaries to discover your true strength. Building Your Special Forces: Surrounding yourself with trusted individuals—your own "special forces"—is critical for overcoming life’s battles. Faulkner encourages finding people who have your back and nurture mutual trust. Overcoming Demons: Faulkner's rule on dealing with personal demons stands out. Whether they are habits or internal struggles, facing them head-on is essential for growth. She shares personal stories about how confronting her own shortcomings led to progress. Takeaways:This episode underlines the importance of personal integrity, readiness, and teamwork. The key to success lies in understanding your mission, staying ready to act, and always maintaining strong personal relationships. Tune in to learn how Faulkner’s military upbringing can inspire and guide your personal journey to success. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/205-harnessing-military-brat-lessons/ https://www.harpercollins.com/blogs/authors/harris-faulkner https://abcnews.go.com/US/book-excerpt-harris-faulkners-rules-engagement/story?id=56245142 Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com