It was a lacklustre 2020. We all tried to get through it in our own ‘creative’ ways.
On top of my attempt in making ‘dalgona coffee’, engaging with my (still unfinished) ‘paint-by-numbers’ project and re-watching my favourite TV series, Criminal Minds, I’ve developed an interest in podcasts which kept me inspired and mentally sane.
Hopefully, these recommendations can help bring you to the next level in 2021.
Think fast, talk smart
After almost 10 years working in the communications line, I am still seeking ways to improve my interaction with people.
It is rare for a motivational podcast to capture my attention as I am very easily distracted, but this from Stanford University got me hooked.
Perhaps it is because they are great communicators, appropriately so, given the name of the podcast.
Hosted by Matt Abrahams, a lecturer of Communications at Stanford Graduate School of Business, listeners get real-life communication and leadership tips from experts on subjects like “How to capture readers and keep them engaged”, “How to lead with self-awareness and vulnerability”, “How to communicate effectively” and something we often need “How to spark your creativity”.
I find the podcasts informative and thought-provoking, especially for working adults or entrepreneurs who are trying to grow their career or business.
A word of advice – do not to listen to this before bedtime as it will stimulate your cognitive process, igniting the light bulbs in your brain and keep you sleepless (at least that was the case for me).
Sleep meditation for women
Is it just me or does everyone have a problem falling into slumber? It is like your brain does not want to work when it is 9-5.
But when it is time to rest, it decides it is the time to go through your to-do-list and give life advice – reflecting all the things you wished you had done or the words you wished you hadn’t said earlier in the day.
This podcast came to my rescue when I was scrolling for something to meditate on.
Previously, I would have settled on a meditation music playlist, but it is 2021, and yours truly decided to hop on the “new year, new me” bandwagon and so, committed to some “serious” meditating.
I heard recently that when one is in the state of ‘trance’ (somewhere between sleep and consciousness), we are more receptive to word suggestion, making it the best state to capture the essence of motivational talk and words of empowerment.
I definitely need some words of encouragement, reminding myself of how awesome I am and that it is okay to be shorter than five feet (1.52m).
The podcast claims to cater to women and those who identify as women (hmm … okay). But it is for all, regardless of gender.
I trust everyone can find something relatable and benefit from a good night’s sleep. Every night now, I doze off to Katie Krimitsos, the gentle voice behind the podcast.
Joel Osteen Podcast
In 2016, I was dealing with a personal matter which involved business fraud.
It was one of the toughest times in my life, and while searching for ‘light-hearted entertainment’, I found a documentary narrated by Morgan Freeman called “The story of God”.
In one of the episodes, he featured Pastor Joel Osteen, leader of Houston-based Lakewood Church.
I remember growing up reading Osteen’s motivational books before I gave up on them.
So, I did what nosy people do – search ‘Where are they now?’ I stumbled upon an episode entitled “Let Go and Let God” by Osteen and as corny as this sounds, it spoke to me.
I do not identify to any religion but as soon as I started applying some of Osteen’s advice, almost all my issues were resolved.
Of course, it took more than a day but when my mindset changed, I began to find joy again.
The podcasts became my go-to for inspiration, hope and generally, a reminder of all good things in life.
Last year was an unprecedented one filled with changes and obstacles. We were not only physically restricted, but I believe, also mentally blocked.
During those times, Osteen offered me hope.
One does not need to be religious to enjoy the podcast. Have an open heart. It will be a great tool for those who want to develop mentally and spiritually.
This is the personal opinion of the writer and does not necessarily represent the views of Twentytwo13.
