Finding Motivation When You Don’t Feel MotivatedWelcome to the Human Blueprint Podcast.A podcast exploring the framework of personal growth, self-discovery, and resilience.Through relatable stories, humor, and actionable advice, we tackle life’s challenges tohelp you build a life of courage,confidence, and connection.I’m your host, Laura Dahl.Episode Overview:● Everyone struggles with motivation at some point—this is normal● Motivation doesn’t always come first—action often sparks it● Today, we’ll break down how to manufacture motivation when you don’t feel like doing anything● Practical strategies to push through when you’re feeling stuck1. Introduction (3-5 min)● Welcome listeners and introduce the topic● Acknowledge that motivation is fleeting—it’s unrealistic to expect to feel motivated all the time● Personal anecdote: Share a time when you personally lacked motivation but had to pushthrough anyway (e.g., launching a big project, exercising, writing a book, or even just getting outof bed some days)● Tease upcoming strategies:○ “Today, I’ll share how to create motivation when you don’t have any, the science behindgetting started, and practical tips you can implement right away.”Engagement Question: When was the last time you felt unmotivated? How did you handle it? Dropme a message or comment—I’d love to hear!2. Understanding Motivation (5-7 min)The Myth of Constant Motivation● Many people believe that successful or productive people are always motivated—this is false● Motivation is a feeling, and feelings fluctuate● Example: A professional athlete doesn’t wake up every day feeling excited to train, but they doit anyway because they rely on systems, habits, and disciplineIntrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation● Intrinsic Motivation: Driven by personal satisfaction or growth○ Example: Writing a book because you love storytelling○ Example: Running because it makes you feel mentally clear● Extrinsic Motivation: Driven by rewards, recognition, or consequences○ Example: Meeting a work deadline because your paycheck depends on it○ Example: Cleaning the house because guests are coming overKey Takeaway: You don’t have to wait for motivation—sometimes external factors can be the spark toget started.3. How to Manufacture Motivation (10-15 min)A. Take Action First—Action Creates Motivation● Motivation often follows action, not the other way around● Example: Instead of waiting to feel like working out, put on your workout shoes and commit tojust 5 minutes—most of the time, you’ll keep going● Psychological concept: The Zeigarnik Effect—our brains don’t like unfinished tasks, so oncewe start something, we feel compelled to finish itB. Reduce the Activation Energy—Make It Easy to Start● Lower the barrier to entry so the first step is easy● Examples:○ Want to start reading more? Keep a book by your bed, open to the page you left off○ Want to eat healthier? Prep snacks ahead of time so you’re not tempted by junk food○ Want to write every morning? Have your laptop open with a blank doc ready the nightbeforeC. Habit Stacking—Attach New Actions to Existing Habits● Developed by James Clear in Atomic Habits● Pair a new habit with something you already do consistently● Examples:○ After I make my morning coffee, I will journal for 2 minutes○ After I brush my teeth at night, I will do 10 squats○ After I check my email, I will send one outreach messageD. The 2-Minute Rule—Start Small to Avoid Overwhelm● Break down big goals...
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56:19
Your ADHD Is a Superpower
What if ADHD isn’t a deficit—but a set of hidden strengths?In this episode of The Human Blueprint, we reframe ADHD as a superpower. Laura shares personal stories and practical tools to help you stop fighting your brain and start using it to your advantage.You'll learn how to:Recognize traits like hyperfocus, creativity, and adaptability as assetsTurn distraction into curiosity and impulsivity into bold actionBuild systems that work with your brain, not against itUse strategies like body doubling, gamifying tasks, and energy sprints to stay productivePractice self-compassion while embracing your own rhythmThis episode is for:Adults with ADHD ready to harness their strengthsSupporters of someone with ADHDCreatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals wired differentlyADHD isn’t a flaw. It’s a different operating system. And once you understand how it works, it can change everything.Workbook and accompanying exercises can be found here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NHoSTwKKYcIgTJ_NF1r6TfbOoY34FjRC/view?usp=sharing
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23:12
Let them…… but not that
Mel Robbins’ Let Them philosophy is powerful but does it apply to everything? In this episode of The Human Blueprint Podcast, I dive into the distinction between letting go and setting boundaries. While we can’t control others, we also don’t have to tolerate disrespect, toxicity, or negativity.I’m done with keyboard warriors, polarizing rhetoric, and the culture of unchecked nastiness. In this episode, i’ll break down: When “letting them” brings peace vs. when it enables harmThe importance of boundaries in real life and onlineHow to push back against toxicity while protecting your energyLet’s talk about what we should and shouldn’t tolerate. Where do you need to draw the line? Drop a comment and let’s discuss!Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this episode resonates with you!
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The Power of Friendships: Understanding and Cultivating the Connections You Need
Friendships are more than just social connections. They are essential to our well-being, happiness, and personal growth. In this episode of The Human Blueprint Podcast, we dive into the different types of friendships we all need in our lives, from the Cheerleader who lifts you up to the Truth-Teller who keeps you grounded.We’ll explore how to identify the roles your friends play, the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships, and how to let go of those that no longer serve you. Plus, discover practical tips to build stronger, healthier connections and reflection prompts to evaluate your current friendships.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:1. The six types of friendships and the unique roles they play in your life.2. Why friendships are vital to your emotional and mental well-being.3. How to strengthen your friendships through intentionality and communication.4. When it’s time to let go of toxic or unfulfilling relationships.5. Practical steps to create the friendships you’ve always wanted.Reflection Questions:What kind of friend are you to others?Are there gaps in your circle of friends?Which friendships bring you the most joy, and how can you nurture them?Free Resource: Download the Friendship Reflection Workbook for exercises, prompts, and actionable steps to evaluate and enhance your friendships: (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iaBQ-KhtxjpBc26YkqKq4PQzoDX_zRSDRPSEdFM7AjM/edit)
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54:33
Independence and Self Reliance
What does it mean to truly be independent and self-reliant? In this episode of The Human Blueprint Podcast, we explore the power of independence and how to cultivate self-reliance in every aspect of life. From trusting yourself to overcoming common barriers like fear and self-doubt, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stand strong on your own two feet.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 1. What independence and self-reliance really mean and how they apply to your life. 2. Why trusting yourself is key to confidence, fulfillment, and personal growth. 3. Common barriers to independence and how to overcome them. 4. Practical steps to develop independence and take ownership of your choices. 5. Real-life examples of independence in relationships, finances, work, and emotional well-being.💡 Reflection Questions: • What does independence mean to you? • Where do you feel overly dependent, and how can you shift toward self-reliance? • What fears or beliefs are holding you back from taking ownership of your life?📥 Download the Independence and Self-Reliance Workbook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gj3w0jC_XD5w4seSrIFqQ1fe9dQsUscZ/view?usp=drivesdkStart building your strength from within today!
The Human Blueprint
Discover. Reflect. Transform.
Welcome to The Human Blueprint, a podcast that explores the raw, real, and relatable aspects of life. Through inspiring stories, actionable advice, and thought-provoking discussions, we dive deep into the challenges, triumphs, and transformations that make us human.
What to Expect
Topics That Matter: From personal growth and self-discovery to grief, relationships, confidence, and boundaries, we tackle the topics that shape our lives.
Engaging Stories: Each episode starts with a story or quote to draw you in and set the tone for meaningful exploration.
Practical Tools: Expect hands-on exercises, actionable advice, and guided reflections to help you apply the material to your own life.
A Lighthearted Tone: Serious topics, but with plenty of humor and relatable anecdotes to keep it engaging and real.
More Than a Podcast: Accompanying the podcast is a book and workbook filled with exercises and activities to deepen your journey of self-discovery and growth.
This podcast is for anyone ready to reflect on their life, overcome limiting beliefs, and take action to create a more fulfilling, authentic version of themselves. Whether you’re navigating grief, setting boundaries, or just trying to figure out who you are unencumbered, this is the space for you.
New episodes drop every Friday. Let’s discover, reflect, and transform—together.
#TheHumanBlueprint #PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscovery