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In all of our incessant thoughts of “not good enough,” “not successful enough,” “not far enough along” how often do we stop and actually consider what exactly we are measuring our supposed insufficiencies against? There must be some basis for comparison. Maybe it’s the mythologized overnight success stories that Hollywood crafts around our heroes or maybe it’s just a generalized societal expectation for how—and at what rate—a worthwhile life ought to unfold, but the point is, they are seldom helpful and even less frequently true.

In this episode of Nah-cademics, Brett and John work to tear down these faulty monuments we both simultaneously worship and cower in the shadows of—all in the hope of right-sizing expectations and taking our true measure against the one and only figure we can: ourselves, and in so doing, we come to realize that we are always, automatically, outgrowing who we were yesterday.

-Why is it unhealthy to compare our own output and rate of growth with our heroes—those who often come from different eras and who have undoubtedly had their own creative struggles downplayed by mythologized retellings?

-How can shifting our focus to consistent action and merely cultivating the belief in life’s possibilities help to relieve the misery that comes from constant comparison?

-With the discussion of physical activity being a useful counterbalance to an overactive mind—and, you know, millennia of proof for the benefits of exercise—will John ever actually go to the gym?

As always this podcast doesn’t offer any definitive answers to these questions (well except maybe that last one. Answer: ha, unlikely); it is but the reassuring rambling. However, if you find yourself robbing yourself of feeling joy and accomplishment in your creativity because you’re too busy watching others (seemingly) pass you by, this podcast is for you.

Come, overthink with us!

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