Are you guilty of holding yourself (or others) to impossibly high standards?

In this episode, we're exploring the concept of Ought implies can—the notion that we can only be obligated to do what we’re actually capable of. But how do we know where the limits of ability really are?

Are we being too hard on ourselves (or others)? Or are we making excuses?

Learning how to tell the difference can help you set fair, realistic, and empowering expectations—for yourself and everyone around you.

Key Takeaways

- Capacity includes more than just your physical ability to do something—cognitive, emotional, and situational factors also shape what’s truly possible.
- There's an important difference between "I can't" and "I can't yet."
- Acknowledging barriers or limitations is not an excuse, it's an invitation.
- When setting expectations—of yourself or others—check your assumptions. Are you asking for something that’s actually within reach? Or are you expecting the impossible?

Interested in having Monica present at your next live or virtual event? Learn more.

Feeling stuck in the daily grind? Quitting isn’t the only way out. In this episode, Dr. Jessica Grossmeier shares how to find meaning, connection, and even transcendence in the job you have now.

We explore:
- How small shifts in perspective can reignite purpose and satisfaction
- The power of workplace connections and why they matter more than you think
- Simple, science-backed practices to reset, refocus, and thrive at work
- Why transcendence is a job skill—and how to cultivate it

Whether you love your job, feel stuck, or are considering a change, this episode will challenge you to think differently about work—and yourself.

Key Takeaways

- Work can be so much more than just tasks and productivity when we bring our best selves and connect to a larger purpose.
- Instead of leaving a job that feels misaligned, shifting how you approach your work can bring new fulfillment.
- Meaningful relationships at work enhance well-being, performance, and job satisfaction
- Create intentional time for space for mindful movement, deep breathing, or intentional connection with colleagues.

Mentioned

Reimagining Workplace Well-Being: Fostering a Culture of Purpose, Connection, and Transcendence, by Jessica Grossmeier

Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn

Free resources

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Ever wondered why some changes seem impossible to sustain while others just click?

It’s not magic—it’s science.

In this episode, we’re talking about a 3-part recipe for behavior change that was first developed 30 years ago and is still making waves today. If you’ve struggled with change or are trying to help others make positive changes, you need to leverage all three of these key factors–in the right proportions.

Key Takeaways

1. Information, motivation, and behavioral skills all play important and interlocking roles in fostering positive behavior change.
2. Strategies that address all three of these factors are likely to be the most effective.
3. By considering the complexity of the behavior, we can tailor our approaches for maximum impact.

Related Episodes

Ep 129: Why it’s so hard to convert good intentions into action

Ep 11: The Attention, Intention, Action Cycle

Interested in having Monica present at your next live or virtual event? Learn more.