When I say I don’t do podcasts, I do actually enjoy the occasional one but on the whole, I’m not sure when I’m supposed to listen to them?
I don’t like wearing earphones – they give me earache. I certainly don’t like walking listening to stuff – when I’m outside, I like being aware of what is around me, listening to the sounds of nature or whatever is happening in that moment.
I do LOVE listening to things in my cars, I’m a huge fan of audio books but having a “slightly” older car, it’s a bit of a faff trying to set it all up.
Anyway, my point here is that I am constantly being recommended podcasts to listen to, either by friends or through the media or other professional colleagues and I keep trying to make myself listen!
I’ve even been a guest on various podcasts, yet I still struggle with fitting them into my day-to-day life.
The overwhelm of “should” statements
There are lots of things that are recommended to us these days that we “should” listen to or “should” watch. Things that will empower us, things that will motivate and inspire us or just make us laugh.
Great, but don’t let a “should” statement become yet another thing to add to the overwhelm.
Do they add joy?
If you have the time, if they add joy or at least an element of wellbeing to your life, great, do it. But, if the mere thought of trying to fit in yet another podcast, another TED talk starts the anxiety rising – DON’T DO IT!
As with most things I suggest, I’m not saying never, I’m just saying listen to that inner voice that knows you well that’s saying ‘right now I don’t have the time or the energy.’
Put them on the back burner – they’re not going anywhere and you’ll be able to dip into them when you feel like it.
What other “should” are you battling against?
Obviously, this doesn’t just apply to podcasts – other things you might not have the energy for right now are –
- Book clubs: Aa lovely and rewarding past time as long as it’s enjoyable.
- Trending TV series: Record them, save them for a time when other stuff on TV is not interesting you.
- What’s App groups: LEAVE THEM! Especially if you’re being bombarded with messages or if they’re demanding involvement that you haven’t got time to give. This is a surprising one that so many clients struggle with and the relief when they leave them is immense!
- Online groups/exercise classes/courses: These are great if you’re in the right frame of mind and have the energy but if you don’t, they’re yet another pressure to fit into your diary. They often also have the added pressure of social media interaction, so you also feel like you’re letting other people in the group down!
We only have so many hours in the day.
We only have a certain amount of energy.
What is right for one person isn’t necessarily right for another.
My advice? Work out what you can do right now, what you can manage and prioritise that. The rest can all wait regardless of recommendations and well-meaning others.
