Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1931: Isaac Morehouse challenges the long-held belief that a college degree is the ultimate signal of value to employers, arguing instead that opting out can send a stronger message of creativity, persistence, and initiative. In a world increasingly valuing entrepreneurial traits and self-direction, nontraditional paths like apprenticeships, personal projects, and self-guided learning may offer clearer proof of a candidate's real-world readiness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://isaacmorehouse.com/2022/01/26/the-counter-signal-of-a-college-degree/ Quotes to ponder: "A degree no longer does a good job of signaling persistence and willingness to invest in oneself, while conformity isn't a very desirable trait in the best modern jobs." "Even committing to and completing a daily blogging challenge for 30 days signals more of the kind of persistence companies crave than sitting in a classroom for a few hours a day for four years." "Right now, the best way to stand out is to opt-out." Episode references: Praxis: https://www.discoverpraxis.com

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1930: Josh Bauerle breaks down the critical tax advantages available to entrepreneurs, and how to actually make the most of them. From selecting the right business entity to treating everyday expenses as potential deductions, this guide equips business owners with actionable steps to lower tax liability and stay audit-ready without losing focus on what really matters: growing the business. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.eofire.com/maximizing-your-tax-advantages-as-an-entrepreneur/ Quotes to ponder: "Being an entrepreneur offers significant tax perks that simply aren't available to employees." "Your cell phone, your meals and entertainment and even your vacations can be written off on your tax return, in part or in whole, if they meet the IRS requirements of a business expense." "There are said to be three rules when it comes to dealing with the IRS: Documentation, Documentation, Documentation."

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1929: Laura Stack offers practical strategies for escaping the trap of "good enough" performance at work, reminding us that even the most disciplined routines can slide into stagnation. By addressing internal blocks like perfectionism and procrastination, refreshing your goals, and optimizing your work environment, you can reignite your motivation and climb out of a productivity rut with intention and renewed energy. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://theproductivitypro.com/blog/2013/08/how-to-escape-a-workplace-productivity-rut/ Quotes to ponder: "Let go of the stone, so you can float back to the top of the productivity game." "A change is as good as a rest, and this is one of the situations where it may apply." "Start by redefining your goals, looking for the motivational triggers that set you on your path toward success in the first place."

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1928: Leah Manderson shares how she transformed her writing skills into a thriving freelance business to help fund her dream wedding. By targeting women-owned businesses with generous, value-first pitches, she built a client base, earned over $5,000, and discovered a side hustle that outlasted the wedding itself. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.budgetsaresexy.com/side-hustle-series-started-freelance-writing-business/ Quotes to ponder: "It's a rollercoaster of emotions in the beginning (it took me 2 months to get my first client!), but so worth the effort when you finally get a 'yes!'" "To sell my services, I sent email pitches to women-owned businesses in my area, telling them how I could help them improve their sales." "In exchange for free projects, request either a testimonial or referral to further your business in a non-monetary way."

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1927: Chalene Johnson explores the emotional dilemma of offering your services for free and why doing so often undermines the recipient's commitment and results. She also breaks down four entrepreneurial mindsets, Doubter, Perfectionist, Jumper, and Soldier, helping you identify your current approach and what it takes to shift into a more productive, resilient mindset. These insights are invaluable if you're striving to build stronger boundaries and achieve real progress in both life and business. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.chalenejohnson.com/services-when-you-should-give-away-your-services-for-free/ & https://www.chalenejohnson.com/entrepreneurs/ Quotes to ponder: "When you give people something for free, not always, but 9 times out of 10, they don't do anything with it." "You have to stop doubting yourself because, if you doubt yourself, I guarantee everyone else will, too." "You must be a quiet hero. Feel fear and do what is right."