Stikkord: Personal Development

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Selvinnsikt som fundament for ledelse – nøkkelen til bærekraftig suksess

Hva er det viktigste en leder trenger å mestre i vår komplekse og dynamiske verden? Teknologisk innsikt, strategisk klokskap eller kanskje evnen til å motivere medarbeidere? Alt dette er viktig, men det finnes én egenskap som ofte blir oversett, til tross for at den er helt avgjørende: selvinnsikt.

Selvinnsikt handler ikke bare om å forstå dine styrker og svakheter, men også om å være klar over hvordan du påvirker andre mennesker rundt deg. Dette er kjernen i Rune Semundseths bok, Kjernen i ledelse, hvor han påpeker at selvinnsikt er selve fundamentet en god leder bygger sin rolle og påvirkning på.

De fire lederrollene – KISS-modellen

Semundseth introduserer fire sentrale lederroller, elegant samlet under akronymet KISS:

  • Kompetansebyggeren: Lederens evne til å dyrke og utvikle talent, kompetanse og faglighet i organisasjonen. En kompetansebygger forstår hvor viktig det er å investere i menneskers vekst.
  • Inspiratoren: Lederen som tenner gnisten og skaper mening. Inspiratoren får medarbeidere til å ville mer, våge mer og tro på det umulige.
  • Strategen: Lederen med overblikk og perspektiv, som ser muligheter og retning der andre ser kaos og usikkerhet. Strategen tar modige beslutninger som setter organisasjonen i posisjon til langsiktig suksess.
  • Sekundanten: Den empatiske støttespilleren som står ved medarbeidernes side i gode og vanskelige tider. Sekundanten gir støtte, korrigerer forsiktig, og er en trygg base for å teste grenser og utvikle mot.

Refleksjon som superkraft

Men hvordan blir man god i disse rollene? Rune argumenterer for at svaret ligger i refleksjon, et av de mest kraftfulle verktøyene ledere har tilgjengelig. Boken trekker inn forskning om læring og metakognisjon, som bekrefter hvor viktig det er å ikke bare handle, men også forstå hvorfor og hvordan vi handler.

Metakognisjon, eller det å tenke over egen tenkning, hjelper ledere å finjustere sin atferd og oppnå en dypere forståelse av seg selv og sin lederstil. Når ledere aktivt reflekterer, kan de raskere korrigere kursen, unngå fallgruver og forsterke det som fungerer.

Fra selvinnsikt til lederskap med mening

Å utvikle selvinnsikt er ingen enkel prosess – den krever mot, ærlighet og tålmodighet. Men belønningen er uvurderlig. En leder med god selvinnsikt forstår sin påvirkning, både den tilsiktede og den utilsiktede. Det skaper et lederskap som er genuint, autentisk og effektivt.

Boken Kjernen i ledelse utfordrer oss til å stille viktige spørsmål:

  • Hvordan opplever andre mitt lederskap?
  • Hvilken lederrolle (KISS) er min styrke, og hvilken bør jeg utvikle videre?
  • Hva kan jeg gjøre for å skape større innsikt og refleksjon rundt mitt eget lederskap?

Tør du ta reisen?

Å bli en leder med sterk selvinnsikt er en kontinuerlig reise. Rune Semundseth gir deg verktøyene, perspektivene og forskningsgrunnlaget du trenger for å lykkes. Men avgjørelsen – og motet til å sette dette ut i praksis – ligger hos deg.

Så, er du klar til å bygge ditt lederskap på fundamentet av selvinnsikt?

Les boken. Reflekter. Utvikle deg. Fordi fremtidens ledere er de som kjenner seg selv aller best.

And in English

Self-awareness as the foundation of leadership – the key to sustainable success

What is the most important skill a leader needs to master in our complex and dynamic world? Technological insight, strategic wisdom, or perhaps the ability to motivate employees? All these aspects are vital, but there’s one skill often overlooked, despite being absolutely critical: self-awareness.

Self-awareness isn’t just about knowing your strengths and weaknesses; it’s also about understanding how you affect the people around you. This is at the core of Rune Semundseth’s book, The Essence of Leadership (Kjernen i ledelse), where he emphasizes that self-awareness is the essential foundation upon which effective leadership is built.

The Four Leadership Roles – The KISS Model

Semundseth introduces four central leadership roles, elegantly grouped under the acronym KISS:

  • The Competence Builder: The leader’s ability to cultivate and develop talent, skills, and professional expertise within the organization. A competence builder understands the importance of investing in people’s growth.
  • The Inspirer: The leader who ignites passion and creates meaning. The Inspirer motivates employees to aspire for more, take risks, and believe in achieving the seemingly impossible.
  • The Strategist: The leader who provides vision and perspective, recognizing opportunities and direction where others see chaos and uncertainty. The Strategist makes courageous decisions positioning the organization for long-term success.
  • The Supporter: The empathetic ally who stands by team members during both good times and difficult periods. The Supporter provides gentle correction, encouragement, and a safe foundation for testing boundaries and building courage.

Reflection as a Superpower

But how does one excel in these roles? Rune argues that the answer lies in reflection, one of the most powerful tools leaders have at their disposal. Drawing on research in learning and metacognition, the book highlights how essential it is not only to act but also to understand the reasons and methods behind our actions.

Metacognition, or thinking about one’s own thinking, enables leaders to fine-tune their behavior and gain deeper insights into themselves and their leadership styles. Leaders who actively reflect can swiftly correct their course, avoid pitfalls, and reinforce effective strategies.

From Self-awareness to Meaningful Leadership

Developing self-awareness isn’t an easy process—it requires courage, honesty, and patience. Yet, the rewards are invaluable. A leader with strong self-awareness understands their impact, both intended and unintended. This results in a leadership style that is genuine, authentic, and effective.

The Essence of Leadership challenges us to ask crucial questions:

  • How do others perceive my leadership?
  • Which leadership role (KISS) is my strength, and which one should I further develop?
  • What can I do to foster deeper insight and reflection around my own leadership?

Are You Ready for the Journey?

Becoming a leader with robust self-awareness is an ongoing journey. Rune Semundseth provides the tools, perspectives, and research foundation needed to succeed. However, the decision—and the courage to put this into practice—is yours alone.

So, are you ready to build your leadership on the foundation of self-awareness?

Read the book. Reflect. Grow. Because the leaders of tomorrow are those who understand themselves the best.

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Coaching in Chaos: How to Master Fear and Future Leadership

What does it take to be one of the top coaches in the world? In this exclusive conversation, Dr. Marcia Reynolds—recognized globally as a top 5 leadership coach—shares her incredible journey, her groundbreaking insights, and her powerful perspectives on the future of coaching in a rapidly changing world.

From Uncertainty to Mastery: Marcia’s Journey

Marcia Reynolds didn’t start at the top. She began her career facing uncertainties and doubts, much like any aspiring professional. Through resilience, curiosity, and a relentless passion for personal growth, she navigated challenges and fears to emerge as one of coaching’s most influential voices. Marcia candidly shares the pivotal moments and difficult decisions that shaped her remarkable career.

AI and Coaching: Threat or Opportunity?

With artificial intelligence rapidly advancing, many coaches are asking themselves: «What role will I play when technology takes over?» Marcia brings clarity and calm to this question, exploring how AI can become a powerful partner rather than a replacement. She highlights the enduring human qualities—empathy, intuition, and deep emotional connection—that technology cannot replicate.

Bridging the Gap: Leadership in a Chaotic World

Marcia passionately advocates for authentic human connection and leadership rooted in empathy and vulnerability. Her upcoming keynote, «Bridging the Gap: Preserving Humanity in a Chaotic World,» offers practical strategies for leaders and individuals to thrive personally and professionally despite uncertainty. She challenges us to rethink how we lead, live, and love in an increasingly fragmented world.

Conquering Fear: The Heart of Effective Coaching

Fear is inevitable—but what separates outstanding coaches from the rest is how they handle it. Marcia emphasizes the transformative power of embracing vulnerability and authenticity. She shares personal experiences where facing fear directly led to her greatest breakthroughs and successes.

Insight from Bestselling Books

In her acclaimed books, «Coach the Person, Not the Problem» and «Outsmart Your Brain,» Marcia offers profound yet practical tools to help coaches and leaders:

  • Understand the critical difference between addressing immediate issues and deeply understanding the person behind the problem.
  • Master techniques to overcome limiting beliefs and optimize mental clarity, focus, and performance.

Marcia’s Top Advice for Coaches (New and Experienced!)

Whether you’re just starting your coaching journey or you’ve been in the field for years, Marcia shares her invaluable insights:

  • Avoid common pitfalls by focusing on the person rather than just the issue.
  • Embrace vulnerability and courageously face your own fears—this authenticity will profoundly impact your clients.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Marcia Reynolds reminds us that the future belongs to those who dare to face uncertainty with curiosity and courage. Coaching isn’t merely about solving problems; it’s about understanding the human beings behind them.

Ready to dive deeper into Marcia’s inspiring insights and actionable strategies? Don’t miss our full conversation—it’s an empowering journey you won’t want to skip!

Stay brave, stay curious, and keep coaching the person, not just the problem.

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From Icy Days to a Red-Hot Brand: How Ellisiv Built a Personal Brand with 155,000 Followers

“The most important thing is to be authentic – you are your personal brand.”
– Ellisiv, coach and influencer

How do you build a brand that people don’t just follow — but genuinely feel something for?

In the latest episode of The Talk by Mentorguru, I sit down with Ellisiv, a young and newly certified coach with a lifestyle that quite literally makes you stop and stare. She takes an outdoor ice bath — every single day — all year round. At the same time, she has built an Instagram account with over 155,000 followers, and is now a semifinalist for Personal Brand of the Year in the SHE network.

But this isn’t just an episode about cold plunges.
It’s an episode about courage, mental strength, and how to build a powerful brand by being unapologetically yourself.

It Started with Ice Baths – But Became So Much More

For Ellisiv, it all began with a simple decision: to do something that challenged both her body and her mind. Ice bathing became a daily ritual — and a metaphor for life itself.
To stand in discomfort.
To find strength in stillness.
To face yourself in the reflection of a frozen lake.

She started documenting her journey on Instagram — not to become an influencer, but to share real, unfiltered moments. And it clicked.

From Zero to 155,000 Followers – On Her Own Terms

Many people ask: How did you get so many followers?

Ellisiv doesn’t have a quick fix — she has something better: authenticity.
She never tried to be “liked.” She just chose to be herself. And in a world full of filters, that might be the most powerful thing you can be.

In the episode, she shares:

  • How she found her visual and verbal style
  • What actually works on Instagram
  • How she builds real connections with her audience
  • What happens behind the scenes when you go viral — and how it can take a toll

A Growing Brand – And a Grounded One

The fact that Ellisiv is now a semifinalist for Personal Brand of the Year is no coincidence. It’s the result of consistent work, the courage to show vulnerability, and the ability to stand firm in her values — even when social media storms blow hard.

We also talk about:

  • What it really means to be a personal brand — not just to have one
  • How to handle the pressure of always being «on»
  • Where to draw the line when it comes to sharing, privacy, and mental health

Advice for Anyone Building Their Own Brand

Toward the end of the episode, Ellisiv shares her best advice for coaches, creators, and entrepreneurs who want to grow their own platform:

✅ Get clear on what you truly stand for
✅ Share what feels real — not just what you think will sell
✅ Don’t be afraid to be weird, raw, or different — that’s where the magic lives
✅ Remember: a small, engaged community beats a big, indifferent one. Every time.

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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?