balanced FLUX
Welcome to the balanced FLUX Podcast, where your journey towards self-discovery, growth, and achieving a harmonious balance in life begins. I am Tany McLeod, the founder, producer, and host of this podcast, and I invite you to join me every Sunday at 1 pm UTC for an enlightening experience that aims to guide you through the complexities of mental health and personal productivity, paving the way for a balanced life. What You Will Discover: • Mental Health Insights: Understand the intricacies of the human mind, focusing on stress management, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence. Learn how to cultivate a healthy mindset for enhanced ps...
Making Mindful Moments

Establishing Cognitive Presence and Simple Ways to Integrate Mindfulness Everyday!
Unlock a profound sense of ease and presence in your everyday life with the transformative power of mindfulness. This episode offers practical techniques for cultivating present-moment awareness and unlocking inner peace, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling existence.
Discover how to integrate mindfulness into various aspects of your day, from simple activities like mindful breathing and walking to more complex ones like mindful eating and listening. Transform ordinary moments into opportunities for greater awareness, focus, and connection.
Mindfulness is a journey, not...
The River

Finding Your Flow: Mastering Life's Currents via balanced FLUX!
Life is a journey, much like a river's flow – ever-changing, sometimes calm, sometimes turbulent. balanced FLUX provides you with a philosophy and practical tools to navigate this flow with greater ease. You'll discover how to embrace change as an opportunity for growth rather than a source of fear. Learn how to cultivate mindfulness, self-compassion, and a positive mindset to stay grounded even when the currents are strong.
This episode delves into the core principles of balanced FLUX, exploring how it can empower you to enhance your me...
Same Old, Same Old

Beyond Routine: Breaking the Loop and Why Change is Essential for Growth!
Prepare to dive deep into the fascinating connection between your actions and your outcomes. You'll explore how seemingly insignificant daily habits, thought patterns, and emotional responses can shape your reality. Discover the power of mindfulness and self-reflection as you learn to identify and break free from self-limiting beliefs and behaviours.
This episode will equip you with practical strategies for making lasting changes in your life. You'll learn how to cultivate a positive mindset, embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, and experiment with...
Milestones

The Power of Small Wins: Setting Yourself Up for Success and Why Milestones Matter (Even the Small Ones)!
Ever feel lost in the vastness of your goals? You're not alone! This episode explores the power of milestones in transforming your journey to success. You'll discover how these markers of progress provide clarity, boost motivation, and help you stay focused on your objectives.
Milestones come in various forms, from performance and project milestones to those focused on personal growth. You'll learn how to set SMART milestones, visualize your progress, and celebrate your achievements, no matter how...
The Choice Paradox

Drowning in Decisions: Taming The Choice Paradox and Why More Options Can Mean Less Happiness!
Prepare to dive deep into the fascinating world of the Choice Paradox, where you'll uncover the surprising ways too many options can lead to anxiety, regret, and indecision. You'll explore the psychology behind this paradox and how it can manifest in different areas of your life, from choosing a new phone to deciding on a career path. Get ready to challenge the assumption that more choices automatically equal more happiness.
This episode will equip you with practical tools and techniques...
Cognitive Accounting

Understanding Cognitive Accounting: Your Brain's Quirky Budgeting System and Training Your Brain's Resource Manager!
Prepare to unlock the secrets of your brain's quirky budgeting system, known as cognitive accounting. You'll delve into the psychology of spending, discovering why finding cash in your old jeans feels luckier than receiving a bonus and why you might spend a gift card more freely than hard-earned cash. It's all about how your brain categorizes and values resources, leading to sometimes irrational spending habits.
But don't worry; you'll also learn how to retrain your brain's finance manager for smarter spending...
Decision Fatigue

Your Brain on Overload: Why You're Mentally Exhausted and Taming Decision Fatigue!
Prepare to dive deep into the fascinating world of decision fatigue, where you'll uncover the hidden ways it affects your mental state, productivity, and even your overall happiness. You'll explore the science behind this mental phenomenon and discover why it's not just a matter of feeling lazy or indecisive. This episode will equip you with the knowledge to recognize the signs of decision fatigue and understand its far-reaching consequences.
Next, you'll explore a range of practical strategies to combat decision fatigue and reclaim...
The Framing Effect

Mind Tricks: How Framing Shapes Your Reality, From Everyday Choices to Life Decisions!
Imagine two identical bottles of juice; one labelled "10% fat" and the other "90% fat-free." Which would you choose? This simple example illustrates the Framing Effect, a cognitive bias that subtly shapes your decisions based on how information is presented. You'll delve into the mechanics of framing, exploring how positive and negative framing, as well as risk and loss aversion, influence your choices. Get ready to challenge your assumptions and discover how framing affects your everyday life, from shopping to investing and beyond.
This...
Loss Aversion Bias

Loss Aversion in Everyday Life: Why You're Wired to Fear Loss and What to Do About It!
Imagine this: you find a $20 bill tucked away in an old coat. You'd be happy, right? Now, imagine losing that same $20. Feels worse, doesn't it? That's loss aversion bias at play. It's a hardwired tendency to feel the pain of a loss more strongly than the joy of an equivalent gain. This bias can subtly sabotage your decisions, making you cling to the familiar and shy away from risks, even when they could lead to something amazing.
But...
Sunk-Cost Fallacy

Emotional Attachment vs Rational Decision-Making: Conquering the Sunk-Cost Fallacy and Investing Wisely by Recognizing the Subconscious Trap
In this episode of "balanced FLUX," you'll dive deep into the Sunk-Cost Fallacy, a cognitive bias that tricks you into clinging to past investments, even when they're no longer serving you. You'll explore how this fallacy can manifest in various areas of your life, from your finances and career to your relationships and personal well-being.
You'll also uncover the underlying psychology behind this fallacy and understand why it's so difficult to let go of things you've already invested...
Decision Paralysis

Don't Pull Your Hair Out: Conquering Decision Paralysis & A Common Struggle with Real Consequences
Imagine being stuck in the supermarket aisle, unable to decide between cereal and bread. This seemingly trivial situation illustrates the surprisingly common problem of decision paralysis. It affects many areas of life, from everyday choices to major life decisions. In this episode of balanced FLUX, you'll gain a deeper understanding of this phenomenon and its impact on your well-being.
You'll explore the different types of decision paralysis, including the perfectionism-driven, fear of failure, and overwhelm types. You'll also learn to differentiate...
Ascend Your Height

Ascend Your Personal Summit Beyond the Clouds: Conquering Your Journey of Self-Discovery and Discovering the True Meaning of Your Height.
In this episode of balanced FLUX, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and actualization, exploring the concept of "ascending your height" as a metaphor for personal growth. You'll learn how to identify your unique potential and chart your course to the top of your personal summit, much like a climber scaling a mountain.
This episode will guide you through the process of setting realistic goals, cultivating a growth mindset, and overcoming challenges along the...
A Fine Line

Walking the Fine Line: Navigating the Delicate Balance of Your Inner World while Transforming Thoughts and Emotions into Mindful Actions.
In this episode of balanced FLUX, you'll explore the profound impact of the "fine line" – that delicate balance between your thoughts and emotions and the actions they inspire. Think of it as the difference between a gentle breeze and a raging storm: both involve air, but their impact couldn't be more different. This episode will equip you with the tools to navigate this subtle boundary with awareness and intention.
You'll discover how recognizing and respecting th...
Beyond Survival

More Than Just Getting By - Ditch the Life Raft and Sail Your Own Ship To New Horizons!
Are you ready to break free from the shackles of survival mode and embrace a life of purpose and fulfilment? In this episode of balanced FLUX, you'll embark on a transformative journey beyond simply enduring life's challenges to truly thriving.
You'll explore the different facets of thriving, from healing past trauma and breaking free from stagnation to challenging limiting beliefs and cultivating resilience. Through insightful examples and practical advice, you'll discover how to navigate life's ups and...
Cutting Losses

Unburden Yourself: Knowing When to Walk Away & Why Cutting Your Losses is Key to a Lighter Life!
Get ready to declutter your life – not just your physical space but also your mental and emotional landscape. This episode of balanced FLUX delves into the art of "cutting your losses," a crucial skill for navigating the ever-changing currents of life. You'll explore the common pitfalls that keep you tethered to situations that no longer serve you, from the sunk cost fallacy to the fear of the unknown.
Discover how to identify the "square pegs" in your life – thos...
Setting Boundaries

Tend Your Garden, Mind Your Fence: Building Your Personal Haven & Setting Boundaries for a Flourishing Life!
In this insightful episode of Balanced FLUX, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, delving into the art of setting boundaries. Discover how establishing limits and guidelines for yourself can transform your life, foster personal growth, boost productivity, and cultivate a sense of balance.
You'll gain a deeper understanding of the different types of boundaries - time, energy, and focus - and learn how to implement them effectively in your daily life. I'll debunk common misconceptions, address...
Gamifying Life

Level Up Your Life: The Real Power of Gamification for Personal Growth & How Gamification Transforms Daily Routines!
In this episode, embark on a playful journey into the realm of gamification, where ordinary routines transform into extraordinary adventures. You'll learn how to harness the power of game-like elements to boost your motivation, enhance your focus, and achieve your goals with a newfound sense of enthusiasm.
Explore the various flavours of gamification, from solo quests of self-improvement to collaborative challenges with friends and family. Discover how to set meaningful goals, design personalized rewards, and leverage technology to...
Delayed Gratification

From Impulsive to Intentional: Finding Fulfillment Beyond Quick Fixes & Training Your Brain for Long-Term Wins!
In this episode of balanced FLUX, get ready to embark on a journey beyond instant gratification. You'll explore the science behind impulse control and discover how mastering delayed gratification can lead to greater emotional resilience, personal growth, and a more balanced life.
Learn practical strategies to resist temptations, break free from old habits, and make choices that align with your long-term aspirations. You'll discover how to cultivate mindfulness, visualize your goals, and gradually build your self-control muscle.
Whether...
New Mistakes

Uncharted Territories: The Liberating Power of Making Fresh Mistakes and How They Shape Your Unique Story!
Get ready to redefine your relationship with mistakes! In this episode of Balanced FLUX, I'm diving deep into the transformative power of embracing fresh fumbles on your journey to personal growth. You'll learn how to shift your perspective and see new mistakes not as setbacks but as stepping stones to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Discover how to navigate the unpredictable currents of life with the wisdom of a meandering river, embracing the twists and turns that shape...
Tiny Actions

Tiny Tweaks, Titanic Triumphs: Unlocking the Power of Incremental Change & Nurturing Growth Through Consistent Action!
Prepare to be inspired as I delve into the profound philosophy of "tiny actions, huge results." This episode will challenge your assumptions about change, reminding you that even the most ambitious goals can be achieved through a series of seemingly insignificant steps. You'll learn how to harness the power of compound growth, making small, consistent choices that accumulate over time to create a ripple effect of positive transformation.
I'll explore real-life examples of how tiny tweaks in habits, mindset, and...
Tackling Trauma

The Courage to Heal: Finding Strength in the Struggle & Turning Trauma into Triumph!
In this episode of balanced FLUX, I'll tackle the often misunderstood topic of trauma. You'll learn that trauma isn't a sign of weakness but a natural response to overwhelming events. It's like a hidden crack in your foundation, subtly affecting your thoughts, feelings, and actions. I'll explore the different types of trauma, from acute to complex, and debunk common misconceptions that can hinder healing.
You'll discover that healing from trauma is not about forgetting the past but about learning to live with...
Self-Doubt

Taming Your Inner Saboteur: Conquering Self-Doubt for a Flourishing Life!
In this episode of balanced FLUX, I'm diving deep into the complex world of self-doubt. It's that persistent whisper that questions your abilities, worth, and decisions. I'll explore how self-doubt manifests in different areas of life, from career choices to social interactions. You'll gain insights into the common misconceptions surrounding self-doubt and discover why it's not a sign of weakness but a natural part of the human experience.
I'll then delve into practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt, empowering you to silence your inner critic and...
Coping Mechanisms

Beyond Band-Aids: Unboxing Your Emotional Toolkit for a Balanced Life
Ever wonder how you navigate life's ups and downs while constantly putting out emotional fires? In this insightful episode of balanced FLUX, I'll dive deep into the fascinating world of coping mechanisms and your personal strategies for handling stress, challenges, and difficult emotions. You'll discover how to identify your unique coping style, whether you're solving problems, expressing emotions, or performing cognitive reframing.
I'll also explore the critical difference between healthful and unhealthful coping mechanisms, empowering you to make choices that nourish your soul rather than...
U-turn

The Road to Nowhere: How to Change Direction and Thrive!
In this episode of balanced FLUX, I'll dive into the concept of the U-turn, a powerful tool for reclaiming your life's journey. You'll learn how to identify the signs that it's time for a change, whether it's a toxic job, a financial drain, or an unrealistic personal goal.
I'll shatter the misconception that U-turns are synonymous with failure and instead reframe them as acts of courage and self-awareness. You'll hear examples of how embracing U-turns can result in greater happiness, productivity, and balance.
...
Personal Conflicts

Clashes to Connections: A Zen Approach to Personal Conflicts & How They Can Fuel Your Growth!
In this episode of balanced FLUX, you'll discover that personal conflicts aren't just unavoidable – they're somewhat essential. By challenging common misconceptions, this episode will show you how disagreements, whether with others or within yourself, can spark creativity, strengthen relationships, and propel you toward personal growth.
Get ready to ditch the drama and embrace a new perspective on conflict. You'll learn how to navigate disagreements with grace and wisdom, turning clashes into connections and transforming challenges into opportunities for self-discovery.
...
Battling Boredom

Bored? Good! Finding Fulfillment in the Mundane & How Boredom Can Transform Your Life.
In this episode of "balanced FLUX," you'll uncover the hidden potential of boredom. We'll challenge the notion that boredom is simply a lack of things to do, revealing its true nature as a complex emotional state that can be harnessed for good. You'll learn how boredom can be a catalyst for creativity, innovation, and even self-discovery.
Get ready to redefine your relationship with downtime. We'll delve into the different types of boredom, from the fleeting situational kind to the deeper existential ennui...
Productivity Guilt

From Guilt to Growth: Redefining Your Relationship with Work
Get ready for a transformative episode of "balanced FLUX" that delves into the heart of productivity guilt. You'll explore the insidious ways this guilt can sabotage your well-being, relationships, and even your success. Discover the hidden costs of the relentless pursuit of productivity and learn how to reclaim your right to rest and joy.
In this episode, you'll uncover the root causes of productivity guilt, challenge societal expectations, and reframe your relationship with work. You'll learn to set realistic boundaries, embrace self-compassion, and prioritize what truly...
Ruminative Brooding

The Mental Maze: Why Your Mind Can Be Your Worst Enemy
Have you ever felt like your mind is your own worst enemy, constantly replaying past mistakes or worrying about future anxieties? That's ruminative brooding, and it's more common than you think. In this episode of "balanced FLUX," we'll dive deep into the intricacies of this mental phenomenon, exploring its various forms, from fleeting states triggered by specific events to chronic patterns that can become thematic obsessions.
We'll also shatter common misconceptions about rumination, such as the belief that it's a form of productive introspection...
Stages of Metacognition

The Dance between Consciousness and Competence
Get ready to swap your thinking cap for dancing shoes! In this episode, we're ditching the usual self-help jargon and diving headfirst into the world of metacognition. You'll discover how your mind isn't just a random jumble of thoughts, but a grand ballroom ready for you to take the lead.
We're breaking down the four stages of metacognition, from those embarrassing "two left feet" moments of being clueless, to the exhilarating feeling of dancing on autopilot, and even the zen-like state of fully understanding your own mental choreography.
<...The Open Area

Conscious Competence – Mastering Your Craft
In this episode of balanced FLUX, you'll embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of true mastery. You'll learn that conscious competence is not just about being good at something, but about understanding the underlying principles and applying your knowledge effortlessly in various situations.
You'll discover the path to mastery, which involves dedication, learning from mistakes, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. You'll also learn how to overcome challenges and setbacks, using them as fuel for growth and self-improvement.
By the end of this episode, you'll have a...
The Hidden Area

Unconscious Competence – The Power of Intuition
In this episode of balanced FLUX, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of unconscious competence – that magical zone where your skills and knowledge flow seamlessly without effort. Imagine effortlessly mastering new skills, trusting your gut instincts with unwavering confidence, and even achieving goals without consciously knowing how. That's the power of unconscious competence!
We'll uncover the secrets of intuitive decision-making, explore the concept of "flow state," and discover how to tap into your hidden talents. You'll learn how to recognize when you're already a pro at something without real...
The Blind Area

Conscious Incompetence – Embracing the Learning Curve
In this episode of balanced FLUX, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of conscious incompetence—that glorious stage where you know what you don't know. It's awkward, it's humbling, and it's absolutely essential for growth.
You'll uncover why this "fish out of water" feeling isn't a sign of failure but a stepping stone to brilliance. We'll explore how embracing your inner beginner opens doors to new possibilities, skills, and even a healthier mindset.
Get ready to ditch perfectionism, celebrate the learning curve, and discover the transformative powe...
The Unknown Area

Unconscious Incompetence: The Bittersweet Ignorance
Get ready to explore the dark corners of your mind where unconscious incompetence lurks. It's a place where you might be blissfully unaware of your limitations, hindering your growth in ways you can't even imagine.
In this episode of balanced FLUX, I'll be pulling back the curtain on this phenomenon. You'll uncover the signs of unconscious incompetence in relationships, careers, and even your personal finances.
Don't let ignorance hold you back any longer. Join me as I navigate the path from cluelessness to consciousness, giving you the tools...
Your RACE, Your PACE

The Antidote to Hustle Culture Burnout & Why Focusing on Your Lane Matters!
In this episode of "balanced FLUX," we're challenging the notion that life is a race against others. Instead, we'll explore the concept of "Your RACE, Your PACE," a philosophy designed to help you define success on your own terms.
Discover how your Resolutions, Aspirations, Commitments, and Endeavors (RACE) create your unique path, while Perseverance, Attentiveness, Consistency, and Endurance (PACE) provide the fuel to keep you moving forward.
Get ready to redefine what it means to "win" in the marathon of life...
Endurance

The Stubborn Power Within: Harnessing Your Inner Endurance
In this episode of balanced FLUX, we'll explore the concept of endurance—and trust me, it's about way more than just physical stamina. We'll uncover the secrets of building resilience, not just for those one-off hurdles but for the long, winding marathon of life.
Whether you're a student burning the midnight oil, a parent juggling a thousand things at once, or simply facing a period of personal struggle, endurance is your secret weapon. You'll learn why it matters, how to avoid burnout, and how to build that un...
Consistency

The Compound Effect in Action: Small Steps, Giant Leaps with Consistency.
Get ready to ditch the all-or-nothing mentality and embrace the power of small, consistent steps. In this episode, we'll uncover the hidden magic of showing up, even when you don't feel like it. You'll learn how to build trust in yourself, reduce decision fatigue, and create the life you've always dreamed of – one tiny habit at a time.
We'll tackle the common roadblocks to consistency, like rigidity and the fear of missing out. Discover how to stay adaptable, inject some fun into your routines, an...
Attentiveness

Unveiling the Power of Attentiveness: Your Key to Clarity, Connection, and Calm.
Get ready to unlock a hidden potential within yourself. We often talk about productivity, time management, and goal-setting, but what if the foundation for all of those things is simply the ability to direct your attention? Attentiveness is far more than just paying attention in the moment; it's a deep mental skill that allows you to filter out distractions, stay present, and connect with the world around you – and with yourself – in a richer way.
Imagine being able to fully absorb information, complete task...
Perseverance

Why Giving Up Is NOT an Option: The Perseverance Advantage and The Mind Over Matter Mindset for a Balanced Life.
Think about some of the greatest achievements in history – did they come easy? Of course not! Behind every accomplishment is a story of perseverance. But perseverance isn't just about blind determination. In this episode, we'll unpack the different types of perseverance and provide practical strategies to boost yours. Learn how to turn obstacles into stepping stones and setbacks into opportunities for growth.
It's time to ditch the "giving up" mindset and discover the hidden power in...
Endeavours

Chase Your Dreams: Your Guide to Meaningful Endeavours
In this episode of balanced FLUX, we'll explore the transformative power of endeavours. We'll discuss how they'll light a fire within you, drive you towards personal growth, and unlock a profound sense of fulfilment. We'll delve into the different types of endeavours – those that unleash your creativity, challenge your limits, and focus on cultivating inner strength.
While the path won't always be smooth, we'll highlight how those struggles will be catalysts for major personal growth. This episode will provide practical tips for embarking on your own endeavour jo...
Commitments

The Key to Growth or the Chains That Hold You Back?
Commitments: Are they your superpower or your kryptonite? If you're ready to level up your life, it's time to get real about how you handle the things you say "yes" to. In this episode of balanced FLUX, we're breaking down the different types of commitments—the good, the bad, and the ugly—and giving you the tools to make them work for you instead of against you.
Think of it like this: commitments are your roadmap to progress. But if that roadmap is a tang...