How Good Can It Get

Ep. 83 Burnout Isn't What You Think - It's Worse

Bree Johnson delves into the critical issue of burnout, a prevalent work wound that is often misunderstood. She explains the three key elements of burnout: exhaustion, cynicism, and feelings of unproductivity.
 
Bree emphasizes the long recovery time from burnout and the importance of recognizing its signs early. The conversation also touches on the broader context of work wounds in 2025, highlighting the challenges faced by employees in today's work environment.
 
Keywords: burnout, work wounds, exhaustion, cynicism, productivity, mental health, workplace stress, recovery, self-care, employee well-being
 
Takeaways
Burnout is a common work wound that is often misunderstood.
The three elements of burnout are exhaustion, cynicism, and feeling unproductive.
Exhaustion is a sustained feeling of being bone tired.
Cynicism involves feelings of detachment and negativity towards work.
Meaningful work does not exempt one from experiencing burnout.
Feeling unproductive can fuel a downward spiral in burnout.
Awareness of burnout factors can help in prevention.
Recovery from burnout can take years, making early intervention crucial.
2025 is projected to be a significant year for work wounds.
Spreading awareness about burnout can help debunk myths surrounding it.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 3/26/25:
Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesmarch  

Ep. 82 How Long Does Change Take?

In this episode, Bree Johnson explores the complexities of change, particularly in the context of personal growth and self-care. She addresses the common question of how long change takes, emphasizing that significant transformations require time and commitment. Bree discusses the importance of understanding the subconscious agreements that drive our behaviors and the necessity of rewiring these beliefs to facilitate lasting change.
 
Through analogies like the dirt road versus the superhighway, she illustrates the challenges of building new habits and the iterative nature of transformation. Ultimately, Bree encourages listeners to embrace the journey of change, recognizing that it is an ongoing process rather than a destination.
 
Keywords: change, personal growth, self-care, mental health, habit formation, emotional well-being, transformation, journey, mindfulness, regulation practices
 
Takeaways
Change takes longer than we often expect.
Celebrating small wins is crucial in the journey.
Big changes require rewiring subconscious habits.
Neural pruning allows for new habit formation.
Expecting instant results can lead to frustration.
Commitment to the journey is essential for growth.
Transformation is an iterative process, not a leap.
Building new habits feels uncomfortable at first.
Confronting oneself is key to personal growth.
Trust that change is unfolding as it should.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 3/26/25:
Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesmarch  

Ep. 81 SPEAKER SERIES: Authentic Relationships in Work, Life, & Grief

In this episode of 'How Good Can It Get?', host Bree Johnson dives into the importance of relationships in both personal and professional contexts. Four guest speakers—Desiree Petrich, Whitney Harvey, Andrea Turnbow, and Ashley Rolloff—share their insights and personal stories, highlighting key strategies for building authentic connections, advocating for oneself, and supporting others through challenging times.
 
The speakers emphasize the significance of presence, intentional networking, self-advocacy, and compassionate leadership. They provide practical advice on how to foster meaningful interactions, engage in effective self-promotion, and create supportive environments for those experiencing grief and loss.
 
Connect with Guests of Executive Unschool's Speaker Series
Desiree Petrich 
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desiree-petrich/
 
Whitney Harvey 
IG: @whitney.m.harvey.esq / @theselfcoachedlawyer / @genthirty8
LI: linkedin.com/in/whitneyharvey
Andrea Turnbow
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thegriefnook/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaturnbow/
Ashlei Rolloff
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleirolloff/  
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ashlei_rolloff/
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb  

Ep. 80 How to Face the Gorilla of Our Stories with Guest Kyle Smith

Kyle Smith, a clarity consultant, shares his journey from personal struggles to helping others achieve wellness through neuro-linguistic somatic experience (NLSE) with host Bree Johnson. He discusses the importance of physical breakdown in emotional healing, the necessity of active participation in personal growth, and the profound impact of words on our mindset and reality.
 
He emphasizes the unique challenges faced by men in their healing journeys and the need for tailored approaches to support their growth. In this conversation, Kyle explores the interconnectedness of energy flow, storytelling, and emotional processing. He emphasizes the importance of confronting personal narratives, particularly those that cause distress, and introduces a four-step method for exploring these stories through breathwork and mindful reflection. The discussion also touches on the impact of soft talk on decision-making, the significance of grit and resilience in finding purpose, and the role of mindset in shaping our experiences and well-being.
 
Keywords: wellness, clarity, breath work, story work, emotional healing, personal growth, men's mental health, self-respect, identity crisis, language influence, energy flow, storytelling, emotional safety, breathwork, self-leadership, soft talk, grit, resilience, mindset, personal growth
 
Takeaways
Kyle transformed his personal struggles into a passion for helping others.
Physical breakdown can lead to emotional breakthroughs.
Active participation is crucial for personal growth.
Men often respond better to respect than love in healing.
Decluttering the mind is essential before adopting positivity.
Words have a powerful influence on our thoughts and actions.
Understanding the root of our cycles can lead to healing.
Self-respect is built through meeting personal standards.
Connect with Guest Kyle Smith
Website: http://www.clarityconsultant.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dapperdudekyle/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dapperdudekyle
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kylesmithtrainer
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dapperdudekyle
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarity-consultant/
Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/limitless-life-with-kyle-smith
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb  

Ep. 79 What Are Your "Hell No's"?

In this episode, Bree Johnson discusses the importance of understanding and embracing your 'hell no's' during times of career transition. She emphasizes that defining what you don't want is just as crucial as knowing what you do want.
 
Through personal anecdotes and reflective questions, Bree encourages listeners to learn from past experiences, set boundaries, and empower themselves to say no without guilt. The conversation culminates in a practical exercise to create a 'hell no' list, helping individuals navigate their career paths with clarity and confidence.
 
Keywords: career transition, self-awareness, boundaries, personal growth, decision making, work-life balance, empowerment, reflection, self-respect, hell no
 
Takeaways
Get comfortable with your hell no's to avoid misdirection.
Defining what you don't want is crucial in transitions.
Reflecting on past experiences can guide future decisions.
Your hell no's help set boundaries in your career.
Saying no is a powerful act of self-respect.
It's important to pause before committing to new opportunities.
Learn from pain points in your career to identify hell no's.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb  

Ep. 78 The Year of Work Wounds: A Deep Dive

In this episode, Bree discusses the concept of work wounds, particularly in the context of the current workplace environment marked by layoffs and a return to office policies. She introduces the four categories of work wounds: bullying, betrayal, bad behavior, and burnout, emphasizing the importance of understanding these experiences to foster healing and recovery. Bree also highlights the need for individuals to acknowledge their work wounds to break the cycle of trauma and create healthier work environments.
 
Takeaways
Work wounds are becoming more prevalent this year.
Legal definitions of workplace harm are limited.
Understanding work wounds can empower individuals.
The four B's of work wounds are bullying, betrayal, bad behavior, and burnout.
Burnout is a clinically defined condition that takes time to recover from.
Many people feel blindsided by changes in their work environment.
Acknowledging work wounds is essential for healing.
Work wounds can lead to repeated cycles of trauma in careers.
Proactive addressing of work wounds can create healthier workplaces.
This conversation will continue to evolve throughout the year.
Keywords: work wounds, workplace trauma, bullying, betrayal, burnout, bad behavior, emotional exhaustion, workplace harm, mental health, employee well-being
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb  
 

Ep. 77 The Energy Vampire of Assumptions

Bree Johnson discusses the detrimental effects of making assumptions, which she refers to as an 'energy vampire.' She reflects on her personal experiences with anxiety and overwhelm caused by assumptions about current events and their potential impacts. Bree emphasizes the importance of asking questions and focusing on present realities rather than unconfirmed fears. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates how assumptions can lead to unnecessary stress and energy loss, and she encourages listeners to reclaim their time and energy by challenging their assumptions.
takeaways
Making assumptions can lead to anxiety and overwhelm.
It's important to differentiate between fact and fear.
Asking questions can help break the cycle of assumptions.
Personal experiences can teach us about the dangers of assumptions.
We often make assumptions to fill our need to know.
Assumptions can lead to unnecessary energy loss.
Mindfulness can help us stay present and focused.
The Four Agreements offers valuable insights on assumptions.
Reflecting on our assumptions can lead to personal growth.
Reclaiming time spent on assumptions can improve well-being.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb  

Ep. 76 Why Mindfulness Is Easier Than Meditation with Guest Rudy Daniel

In this episode, Bree and Rudy Daniel explore the transformative journey of mindfulness, discussing its significance in modern life and the development of the Affirmate app. Rudy shares his personal experiences with mindfulness, the importance of being present, and how technology can be harnessed to facilitate mindful living. They delve into the challenges people face in embracing mindfulness, the cultural context of meditation, and the future aspirations for spreading mindfulness practices.
 
Keywords: mindfulness, meditation, mindful living, technology, mental health, self-exploration, personal growth, app development, Eastern philosophy, Western culture
 
Takeaways
Mindfulness is about being intensely aware in the present moment.
Mindful living can be practiced in everyday activities like drinking coffee.
The app Affermate offers short, engaging mindfulness practices.
Technology can be a tool for enhancing mindfulness, not detracting from it.
Many people experience 'meditation fatigue' due to misconceptions about mindfulness.
Mindfulness practices can be simple and accessible to everyone.
Rudy emphasizes the importance of individual exploration in mindfulness.
Cultural context is crucial for understanding Eastern philosophies.
Mindfulness can lead to a sense of sacredness in daily life.
The future of mindfulness practices lies in making them engaging and interactive.
Connect with Guest Rudy Daniel
The Affirmate app: http://bit.ly/affirmate_app
Rudy's book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ7Y1LMP
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb  

Ep. 75 Don't Blow Your Bonus & Other Financial Self Care Tips with Guest Lindsey Konchar

In this episode, Bree and guest Lindsey Konchar explore the concept of financial self-care, emphasizing its importance in achieving overall wellbeing. They discuss the ripple effects of financial stress on mental health and the disparities in financial education between genders.
 
The conversation transitions into practical strategies for managing finances, including the significance of intentional spending and the implementation of micro barriers to combat impulsive purchases. By examining the relationship between time and money, advocating for a balanced approach to financial management.
 
They also discuss the importance of intentionality in financial practices, the challenges of overcoming financial fears, and the significance of community support in achieving financial wellness. They explore the dynamics of financial conversations in relationships, the value of financial discipline before major life changes, and the transformative impact of the no-spend challenge. Additionally, they address how to redefine luxury and provide strategies for managing bonuses and lump sums effectively.
 
Keywords: financial self-care, financial wellbeing, financial education, gender disparities, intentional spending, micro barriers, COO, CFO, financial therapy, budgeting, financial wellness, intentionality, community support, no-spend challenge, financial discipline, luxury redefined, financial therapy, overcoming financial fears, budgeting strategies, financial conversations
 
Takeaways
Financial self-care is essential for overall wellbeing.
Financial stress can negate the benefits of self-care activities.
Gender disparities exist in financial education and upbringing.
Money habits are often formed in childhood and can be difficult to change.
Intentionality in spending can lead to better financial health.
Micro barriers can help create friction against impulsive spending.
Transitioning from COO to CFO mindset is crucial for financial management.
Time and money should be viewed as equal currencies.
Small changes can lead to significant financial improvements.
There is hope for change in financial habits, regardless of starting point. Practicing delayed gratification is essential for financial health.
Financial insecurity can create fear and avoidance in managing money.
Asking for help in financial matters is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Community support can significantly enhance financial wellness journeys.
Financial conversations in relationships require open communication and teamwork.
It's beneficial to address financial matters proactively, not just in times of crisis.
The no-spend challenge can lead to significant savings and a shift in mindset.
Redefining luxury can help individuals align spending with personal values.
Managing bonuses effectively requires prioritizing debt repayment and savings goals.
Individualized financial strategies are crucial for long-term success.
Connect with Guest Lindsey Konchar
Social: @financialtherapistlindsey
Website: www.copingwithlindsey.com 
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb  

Ep. 74 The Sister Ship: How I Learned to Make Better Decisions

In this episode, Bree explores the complexities of decision-making, emphasizing the importance of understanding the weight of our choices and the decisions we don't make. She introduces a framework for making better decisions, which includes defining desired outcomes, gathering information, assessing risks and benefits, committing to action, and practicing patience.
 
Bree also shares a poetic metaphor of 'sister ships' to illustrate the paths not taken in life, encouraging listeners to embrace their decisions and let go of regrets.
 
Keywords: decision making, decision framework, intuition, risks and benefits, patience, life choices, personal growth, clarity, outcomes, sister ships
 
Takeaways
Decision-making influences every aspect of our lives.
We often obsess over the decisions we don't make.
Every decision has its time; some require immediate action, others can wait.
A clear outcome helps guide decision-making.
Gathering information should balance intuition and logic.
Overanalyzing can delay necessary decisions.
Assessing risks and benefits is crucial in decision-making.
Committing to action is essential for progress.
Patience is a key component of effective decision-making.
Letting go of paths not taken can bring peace.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb