Stikkord: Personal Development

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From Fast Fashion to Conscious Living – A Conversation with Pia Paulsen aka Pia Fab

In this episode of The Talk – by Mentorguru, we meet a woman who hasn’t just designed clothes — she’s redesigned her entire life. Pia Paulsen, also known as Pia Fab, has transitioned from being a successful force in the commercial fashion industry to a trailblazer for sustainability, awareness, and radical personal responsibility.

This isn’t just a story about a career shift — it’s a powerful testimony to what happens when you dare to listen to your inner voice, take full ownership of your life, and carve out your own path.

A Creator With a Conscience

Pia studied at the French fashion school Esmod and launched her own studio — POLYESTER — before she had any real experience in the industry. As she puts it: “What could possibly go wrong?” The answer: everything. But that was also the start of a crucial journey.

Eventually, she found herself in the fast fashion machine, where the pace and pressure to produce stood in stark contrast to her values. One thing especially gnawed at her: copying others’ creative work, and the widespread greenwashing she saw in the industry. As her awareness grew, so did her need to break free.

Jumping Off the Hamster Wheel

Pia had climbed to the top as Head of Design, but meaning was missing. She jumped — without a backup plan.

After a period of deep reflection, further studies in sustainability, and hands-on work in textile sorting with Fretex, she found herself returning to a place where she could truly make a difference: the classroom.

Teacher and Mentor – On the Other Side of the Desk

Today, Pia teaches at Esmod — the very school where her journey began. She mentors final-year students, helping them not only with design skills, but also to find their voice, their inner drive, their creative soul.

“It’s not about shouting the loudest or being the weirdest. It’s about finding your own engine — when you do, you always know the answers, and you’ll always be able to shift gears when things get tough.”

She also teaches sustainability — not as a trend, but as a baseline for the future of fashion.

Confashion – Fashion With Purpose

Pia hasn’t stopped creating. She recently launched Confashion.no — a curated marketplace for Norwegian designers working with redesign and sustainable fashion. The goal? To make conscious fashion both visible and profitable.

“It’s not enough to have a great product without great distribution. Confashion is the missing link.”

She challenges an industry that produces over 100 billion garments annually — enough to give every person on Earth 12 new items a year.

“We could clothe the entire global population for the next 50 years without producing a single new item — if we just took better care of what we already have.”

Taking 100% Responsibility – and Borrowing Belief When You Need It

One of the most powerful moments in the conversation is about ownership — the honest, raw kind of ownership we all need to take.

“I am my only problem — and I am also the only solution.”

When you take radical responsibility, you stop blaming your boss, your upbringing, or society. You start building. But Pia is also honest about what that process feels like — and how important support is along the way.

“I’ve had coaches and mentors who gave me brutally honest feedback. And sometimes, when I didn’t believe in myself, I borrowed their belief in me. That’s one of the greatest gifts a mentor can offer.”

A truth that hits deep for anyone working in growth, coaching or education.

So How Do You Actually Take Back Control?

We asked Pia what advice she’d give to someone feeling stuck:

“Follow the joy. That’s where your direction is.”

She speaks about slowing down to reconnect with yourself, using journaling and meditation as tools to hear your inner guidance. Then? Set a goal. A big one. One you don’t know how to reach — yet. Because just starting the journey will get you moving again.

Pia’s Top Three Steps to Reclaim Your Life:

  1. Slow down. You can’t feel anything if you’re always rushing.
  2. Turn inward. The answer isn’t out there — it’s within you.
  3. Set a joyful, daring goal. Even if it feels impossible, start walking.

The Bottom Line – Be You, Not Perfect

If Pia could tell her younger self one thing?

“You don’t have to be perfect. Be Pia — that’s interesting and unique. Authenticity is the most attractive and meaningful thing there is!”

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Personal vs. Professional Growth: Do You Have to Choose?

Finding the perfect balance between personal and professional growth is a topic that everyone seems to be obsessed with. The internet is full of advice on how to achieve «work-life balance» like it’s some magical formula that, once discovered, will solve all your problems.

But here’s the real question: Is balance really the goal? Or is it just an illusion that’s holding you back?

In this blog post, we’re going to break down:

  • Why chasing balance can be a trap
  • How to combine personal and professional growth without burning out
  • The role of holistic health in building a sustainable lifestyle
  • Practical tips for managing your time to create a more fulfilling life

The Myth of Balance – Why It Can Hold You Back

Let’s be honest: Life is not about achieving perfect balance. It’s about making constant adjustments to stay on course. Think of a tightrope walker – they’re never in perfect balance, but they keep moving forward by continuously readjusting.

🔹 According to Cal Newport, author of Deep Work, people who dive deep into focused work are far more productive and satisfied than those who try to balance everything evenly.

🔹 Research from Harvard Business Review reveals that the most satisfied individuals are not the ones with perfect balance, but those who have clear priorities and live in alignment with them.

🔹 The Flow Theory by Mihály Csíkszentmihályi shows that we’re happiest when we’re fully engaged in a meaningful task – not when we’re trying to do everything at once.

So, what’s the takeaway?

Balance might actually be stopping you from achieving real growth. Instead of constantly chasing an elusive equilibrium, it’s more productive to focus on intensity and prioritization.

How to Combine Personal and Professional Growth Without Burning Out

If balance is a myth, then what’s the alternative? The answer is strategic growth. Here are some proven strategies:

1️⃣ Growth Stacking – Maximizing Your Time

Growth Stacking is about combining different growth activities simultaneously. It’s not about doing more; it’s about doing things smarter.

Examples:

  • Listening to podcasts while working out.
  • Reflecting on your goals while drinking your morning coffee.
  • Turning casual conversations into learning opportunities.

Why it works: It saves time, increases efficiency, and accelerates progress by stacking multiple areas of growth together.

2️⃣ Non-Negotiables – Set Your Boundaries

If you don’t set boundaries, you’ll end up trying to be everything to everyone. Create clear rules for when you’re “on” and when you’re “off.”

Examples:

  • No work emails after 6 PM.
  • Keeping your mornings free from social media.
  • Setting non-negotiable blocks of time for personal projects or family.

3️⃣ The Sprint Model – Intensity Over Balance

Forget about balancing everything perfectly. Instead, focus intensely for short bursts. The Sprint Model encourages you to work in 12-week cycles with clearly defined goals.

Why it works: It creates urgency, boosts productivity, and helps you avoid burnout by alternating periods of hard work with intentional rest.

Holistic Health – Building a Foundation for Growth

You can’t build a skyscraper on a shaky foundation. Holistic health isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating a solid base for sustainable growth.

Key Areas to Focus On:

  1. Physical Health: Exercise, sleep, nutrition. It’s non-negotiable.
  2. Mental Health: Mindfulness, reflection, and digital detox.
  3. Social Health: Quality relationships over quantity.
  4. Emotional Health: Finding purpose and meaning in what you do.

Time Management Tips for a More Fulfilling Life

If you want to grow in multiple areas, you need to own your time. Here’s how:

  1. Conscious Time Management: Create weekly schedules that include blocks for work, rest, learning, and social activities.
  2. Invest in Yourself: Never stop learning. Personal growth fuels professional growth and vice versa.
  3. Set Clear Goals: What do you want to achieve over the next 12 weeks? Break it down and tackle it with laser focus.

Conclusion: Prioritization Over Balance

Balance is a nice idea, but it’s not what drives growth. Instead of striving for an unrealistic ideal, focus on intensity, priority, and strategic growth. When you stop trying to make everything even, you start making real progress.

So, here’s my challenge for you: What will you prioritize today? And how will you combine your personal and professional growth to get there?

Leave a comment below or share your thoughts on social media. I’d love to hear how you’re tackling this challenge!

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How to Take Control of Your Inner Voice – And Stop Sabotaging Yourself

We all have that voice in our head. You know the one. The voice that whispers:

  • «You’re not good enough.»
  • «You’ll never succeed.»
  • «Why even bother trying?»

But here’s the thing: That voice is lying. And the worst part? We believe it. We allow it to dictate our actions, our decisions, and ultimately, our potential.

What Is Negative Self-Talk and Limiting Beliefs?

Negative self-talk is the constant, often subconscious, stream of thoughts that undermines your confidence and abilities. It’s that automatic reaction that tells you «you can’t» before you’ve even tried.

Limiting beliefs, on the other hand, are the mental barriers we create based on fear, doubt, or past experiences. Statements like:

  • «I’m not smart enough.»
  • «I don’t have the resources to succeed.»
  • «It’s too late for me to make a change.»

These thoughts are not based on facts. They are assumptions built on fear and insecurity.

The Science Behind Negative Self-Talk

Research from the National Science Foundation reveals that 80% of our daily thoughts are negative, and 95% are repetitive. This means that if you were tearing yourself down yesterday, chances are you’re doing the exact same thing today.

Our brains are wired for negativity as a survival mechanism. Negative thoughts stick to us like Velcro, while positive ones slide off like Teflon. It’s called Negativity Bias. But survival mode is not where growth happens.

Why This Matters

Your inner dialogue shapes your reality. If you constantly tell yourself that you can’t do something, your brain will find ways to prove you right. It influences how you approach challenges, how you react to setbacks, and how much effort you put into achieving your goals.

The worst part? We often don’t even realize we’re doing it.

How to Take Control of Your Inner Voice

It’s time to change the conversation happening inside your head. Here are three powerful steps you can take:

  1. Challenge Your Thoughts:
    • When a negative thought arises, question it. Ask yourself: «Is this really true?» «Where is the evidence?»
    • More often than not, you’ll find that your thoughts are assumptions, not facts.
  2. Reframe Your Mindset:
    • Replace «I can’t» with «I’m learning.» Instead of «I’m terrible at this,» try «I’m getting better every day.»
    • Language matters. Change how you speak to yourself, and you’ll change how you feel about yourself.
  3. Take Action Despite Fear:
    • Fear is inevitable. But action breaks the cycle.
    • Break tasks into smaller steps and celebrate small wins. Progress builds confidence.

For Mentors and Coaches

If you’re mentoring or coaching others, understanding their negative self-talk is crucial. Listen carefully to the language your mentee uses. Ask powerful questions like:

  • «What story are you telling yourself that’s holding you back?»
  • «If you weren’t afraid, what would you do differently?»

You are not there to provide answers but to help them uncover their own truth and power.

Final Thoughts

The voice in your head doesn’t have to be your enemy. It can be your greatest ally if you take control of the narrative.

Listen to my latest podcast episode: «The Inner Voice Is Lying – Here’s How to Take Control» where I break down this topic and give you practical tools to shift your mindset for good.

What’s one negative thought you’ve been holding on to? How will you challenge it today?

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Pathways to Peace: The Impact of EFT on Mental Health

In a world where stress and anxiety are on the rise, many are seeking effective methods to manage psychological challenges. One such method that is gaining ground for its remarkable results is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). This blog post will explore how EFT, often referred to as «tapping» or mental acupuncture, works and its impact on mental health.

What is EFT?

EFT is a psychological acupressure technique, often referred to as tapping. It combines elements from acupuncture, neurolinguistic programming, energy medicine, and thought field therapy. The method involves tapping lightly on specific meridian points on the body while focusing on a particular emotional stressor or psychological issue.

Fundamental Principles of EFT

The core principle behind EFT is that all negative emotions are due to disturbances in the body’s energy system. By tapping on selected points while thinking about and verbalizing the specific issue, it is claimed that one can restore balance in the energy system, thereby reducing or eliminating the negative symptom.

EFT and Psychological Issues

EFT has proven particularly effective in addressing a range of psychological disorders, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and phobias. What makes EFT appealing is its ability to quickly reduce the emotional impact of memories and incidents that trigger psychological discomfort. This can often be achieved in just a few minutes, and the results are sometimes permanent.

Research Support for EFT

Several studies have supported the effectiveness of EFT. Research indicates that tapping can reduce the production of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increase the production of serotonin, a well-being hormone, contributing to a sense of calm. Furthermore, clinical trials have shown that EFT can be as effective as traditional therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, in treating certain psychological conditions.

Personal Stories and Testimonials

The most powerful affirmations of EFT’s effectiveness often come from personal stories and testimonials. Many people from around the world have shared their experiences on how EFT has helped them overcome serious psychological issues and led to significant life improvements. These stories not only underline the method’s potential but also provide hope to those who are still struggling.

Concluding Thoughts

In the quest for better mental health, it is important to keep an open mind about alternative treatments like EFT. While it is not a «one-size-fits-all» solution, EFT has proven to be a valuable method for many seeking peace and emotional freedom. By integrating traditional and modern therapeutic techniques, we can open the doors to new, effective ways to heal. As we continue to explore and understand the influence of energy-based therapies, we can potentially revolutionize the way we treat psychological disorders, offering pathways to peace for those in need.

In this blog post, we have looked at how EFT works, its scientific basis, and personal success stories. It becomes clear that while more research is needed to fully understand and verify EFT’s effectiveness, it offers a promising alternative for those seeking relief and healing in their mental health struggles.

If you talk or understand Norwegian, you can listen to my podcast about the topic.

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The Art of Change – Small Steps, Big Results

Change is everywhere. It’s inevitable in both work and life. But why do we resist something that is so natural? Our brain loves comfort – it’s an expert at exaggerating threats and convincing us to stay put. But what if we could learn to embrace change?

Why Do We Resist Change?
It’s not because we’re lazy. It’s because of uncertainty. Our reptilian brain is hardwired to keep us safe, not happy. Change feels like a threat, even when it’s an opportunity to grow.

How to Approach Change with Curiosity:

  1. Small Steps Lead to Big Results:
    Start by switching one habit – your toothpaste, your route to work, or say «yes» to something you’d normally say «no» to. Small choices can lead to significant transformations over time.
  2. Make Your Brain Less Dramatic:
    When your brain screams «CHAOS!» – breathe. Ask yourself: What’s the worst that can happen? Write down one thing you can learn from the situation.
  3. Remember the Butterfly Effect:
    Even the smallest actions can have massive consequences. Maybe it’s time to test a tiny change and see how it ripples through the rest of your life.

Conclusion:
Change doesn’t have to be scary. It can be innovative, inspiring, and even fun. Take a small step outside your comfort zone today – you never know what might happen!

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Competition, Charisma and Master Waiter: Mathis`s journey to the Master`s title

When we think of competitions, we often imagine sports, music, or other well-known arenas. But what about the competition to be the best server? Mathias, Norway’s champion in the field of waiting and restaurant manager at Oslo Military Society, shows us that perfection and passion can be taken to a whole new level—even in the art of service.

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into what drives Mathias to compete and excel in his job. From his first nerve-wracking competitions to building an enormous following on TikTok with over 226,000 followers, he shares how he has used social media to inspire and educate. Here is a man who doesn’t just serve food but also captivates and educates his audience with humor and professionalism.

Mathias also shares his best tips for inner motivation:

  • Set small, clear goals that give you direction.
  • Embrace your mistakes—they are the stepping stones to success.
  • Find your passion and cultivate it, even if it means spilling wine now and then.

This episode is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about personal development, handling pressure, and building a professional image without losing authenticity. Tune in to discover how Mathias has managed to combine his competitive spirit with passion and humor to create a unique career.

Call to action: Listen to the podcast her…

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The Only Thing You Need is to Die – Embracing Life’s Most Morbid Truth

When it comes to old sayings, few are as jarring and straight-to-the-point as: “The only thing you need is to die.” It’s not the kind of phrase that inspires warm fuzzy feelings, but stick with me—there’s more to this dark nugget of wisdom than meets the eye. It’s existentially charged, culturally deep, and even, dare I say, oddly empowering. So, buckle up as we dive into why acknowledging this stark truth might just be the most liberating thing you do today.

Why This Phrase Packs a Punch

First off, let’s not sugarcoat it: when someone drops “The only thing you need is to die” at the dinner table, it’s a conversation stopper. But why does it hit so hard? The answer is simple: it’s true. Death is the one constant, the one guarantee in life. Everything else—your job, relationships, ambitions, anxieties—those are negotiable, mutable, and optional. Death? Non-negotiable.

At first glance, that’s terrifying. But dig a little deeper, and it’s an invitation to strip life down to its bare essentials. If the only thing we’re required to do is die, what are we doing with all the rest of our time here? We’re free to decide, and that’s where this edgy piece of wisdom starts to feel a little… hopeful.

The Philosophy Behind It: Sartre Would Be Proud

Let’s get a bit academic for a second. This phrase sits comfortably within the realm of existentialism, a philosophical school of thought championed by big-brained luminaries like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. Sartre would probably raise a glass of red wine and smirk at “The only thing you need is to die” because it’s a stark reminder of what he believed most passionately: life has no preordained meaning, and it’s up to us to create one.

Think about it: if death is the only certainty, then the rest of life is a vast playground of choice. Sure, it’s a playground with rusted swings and existential dread lurking behind the slide, but it’s a playground nonetheless. You can shape your life any way you want, and while that freedom is exhilarating, it’s also heavy with responsibility. Every choice you make—or don’t make—carves out what your life will mean.

So, How Do We Make Choices That Matter?

Alright, you get it: life is a blank canvas, death is inevitable, and Sartre is smirking somewhere. But what does that mean for the choices you make? The trick lies in realizing that if dying is the only real “must,” then everything else you think you have to do is just noise.

Many of us live our lives tangled in a web of perceived obligations. I have to get that promotion. I need to meet societal standards. I should settle down because everyone else is. But if death is the only true endpoint, all those other “musts” are actually choices—choices you are free to accept or reject.

When you remember that life’s only unavoidable event is its end, you can start making decisions that align more closely with what you actually want. Want to quit that high-paying job and open a llama sanctuary? Weird, but go for it. Prefer traveling the world over planting roots? Do it. The only box you absolutely must check on the to-do list of life is “be mortal”—everything else is up to you.

Death Awareness: Your New Best Friend?

Okay, so calling death awareness your “best friend” is a bit much, but humor me. There’s a psychological concept called death awareness that suggests accepting the reality of death can actually lead to a richer, more fulfilling life. When you fully acknowledge that your time here is limited, every moment becomes more precious. The small stuff (read: Karen from HR’s passive-aggressive emails) suddenly feels inconsequential, while the big stuff (meaningful connections, personal growth, inner peace) takes center stage.

Sure, living with death awareness sounds morbid. But it’s like adding salt to chocolate—it balances the flavor and makes life’s sweet moments all the richer.

Creating Meaning in a “Must-Die” World

If life comes with no preloaded meaning, it’s up to you to make your own. This realization can be daunting, but it’s also what makes life an art form. You get to experiment, screw up, pivot, and create something entirely unique.

Albert Camus, another existential heavyweight, said, “The struggle itself toward the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy.” If that ancient rock-roller can find purpose in endless toil, surely we can find meaning in the variety of choices we make, fueled by the knowledge that our time is finite.

Final Thoughts: Why This Morbid Truth Might Save You

So, where does this leave us? Right back at that unsettling phrase: “The only thing you need is to die.” It’s not just an invitation to be nihilistic; it’s an invitation to be free. Free to make choices that resonate with who you are, not what the world expects. Free to let go of societal scripts and choose the path that makes you feel alive.

Embrace that death is the only certainty, and use it as a compass to make your choices count. Build a life that, when you’re nearing the one and only thing you need to do, makes you smile at the strange, beautiful mess you’ve created.

And remember: if all else fails, you’re free to set up that llama sanctuary. Because why not?

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Getting your best year in 2024

If you are like me you are using the time in the end of a year to prepare making your next year even better.

So starting a new year with the intention of making it your best year ever involves a combination of reflection, goal-setting, and intentional action. Here’s five steps to help you get started:

  1. Reflect on the Past Year:
    Take some time to reflect on the previous year. What were your achievements, challenges, and lessons learned? Understanding your past can help you make informed decisions for the future.
  2. Set Clear Goals:
    Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for the year. Break down larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks to make progress more achievable.
  3. Develop Positive Habits:
    Identify habits that contribute to your well-being and success. Establish a routine that incorporates these habits into your daily life. Consistency is key in forming new, positive habits
  4. Develop Healthy Habits:
    Consider adopting habits that contribute to your overall well-being. This could include regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices. Healthy habits provide a strong foundation for achieving your goals.
  5. Take Action:
    The most important step is to take action. Start working on your goals today, even if it’s with small steps. Consistent action is key to making progress and turning your aspirations into reality.

Remember, making it your best year ever is a process, not an overnight achievement. Stay committed, stay positive, and stay focused on your goals. Celebrate the small victories along the way, and keep moving forward.

And good luck for 2024

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6 Undeniable Benefits of Having a Mentor for students

IvyPanda is a student success hub designed to improve the educational outcomes and learning capabilities of students around the world by connecting them with academic experts and by providing highly-efficient self-study services and online tools.

And they have been writing about the impact of a mentor, and they mean that for many students having a mentor is a life-changing experience. Here are some of the advantages of having a mentor from IvyPanda:

  1. It helps set and track individualized goals. Together with a mentor, you can work on setting individual short and long-term objectives and developing an action plan. Such an intentional weekly interaction helps achieve a lot in college, career, and life.
  2. It improves self-awareness and decision-making. An essential component of working with a mentor is self-reflection. If you regularly practice reflection with your mentor, you can assess your strengths and recognize areas for self-improvement.
  3. It allows for constructive and supportive feedback. When working with a mentor, you get helpful and timely feedback that can boost your progress. Having a mentor also creates an opportunity to address any issue quickly and resolve it on the spot.
  4. It offers psychological support. A mentoring relationship is a safe space for you to grow spiritually without fear of judgment and receive reassurance from someone you trust. The opportunity to share your feelings with someone else eases stress and anxiety.
  5. It creates the foundation for a lasting personal network. In many cases, the relationship between a mentor and a mentee remains even after college graduation. In other words, mentoring creates a special bond that you might find helpful throughout your life.
  6. It offers a diversity of perspectives and experiences. College offers plenty of extracurricular activities. You can consult with your mentor to learn more about them and find activities that best fit your needs.

This is a part of an article from IvyPanda see the whole article by clicking on the name.

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Let go of your past – Say hello to your future

Do you sometime feel stuck in your past. Not because you want to, but because it has become part of your identity. 

Listen, and let me explain:

You were bullied at school and therefore felt "less valuable" when you're among people. Of course, this is not true, but you may still hold onto it to this day because it "became a part of you ”. Are you thinking that, and that's why you still feel less valuable when you're among people.

Or it could be that you were told by your parents that "if you got your act together you could achieve almost anything" and to this day you sit with the feeling that you are still not "doing enough". Because you have not achieved everything.

Or maybe you are always "the funny one", but feel that it has become a slightly worn version of you. A version you want to put down.

And yet you keep repeating your old patterns. Why? Because it gives you some kind of security. A comfortable feeling of something familiar. But is that kind of security really that important to you? If it is the same (perhaps even false?) sense of security that keeps you stuck in the past and prevents you from unfolding into the future - is it worth it?


When we discover that old inhibiting patterns have become part of our identity, it is time to let them go. Because they hold us back. They stop us. They make us hit our glass ceiling. This is because we have come to believe that our old ways of functioning are necessary for us to feel like "ourselves".


When you discover it or realize it, you become far. Because then you can talk to a mentor, or a coach. And such a conversation can help you not to be stuck in the old situation anymore. To detach yourself from a self-image that belongs to the past, already here you will discover a huge freedom.

Being able to talk about your pain and your challenges is far better than unconsciously being stuck in them.

Photo by MARK ADRIANE on Unsplash