Subtraction by way of addition

I start a diet, run through self doubt and launch a podcast.

I started a supplemental nutrition program last Monday. It’s a 30-day, “Ultimate Lifestyle Transformation” focused on adding plant-based, superfood supplements to my diet. Benefits include more energy, better digestion, deeper sleep and a more balanced mood. My good friend, Ryan, ended last year on the program and inspired me to give it a go.

Flipping through the included Lifestyle Guide, I pause after reading the following:

This path is all about subtraction, by way of addition. You flood your body with nutrient-rich superfoods without being restrictive with your diet.

Then I think of all the intentions I’ve fulfilled over the last four months. All the tea I’ve prepared, runs I’ve ran, chapters I’ve read, connections I’ve made and paragraphs I’ve written.

How I’ve flooded my life with moments I want to experience.

In doing so, some things have fallen off. Weight, hangovers, anxiety and uncertainty to name a few.

I agree with The Guide. This path is all about subtraction, by way of addition.

What will you add to your life this week?

What nutrient-rich super moments do you want to flood your life with?

I’d love to hear if you’re open to sharing. Or you can record a few using The Intention Guide.

Don’t wait. Start small. Learn as you go.

Running through self doubt

Something feels off yesterday morning. I wake up late. I move about my house slower than usual. I cringe over all the work I need to do.

Finishing a book, building a community, running my business, continuing to grow… it all bears down on my psyche. I feel overwhelmed. I haven’t felt this way in several months.

So, I write down some intentions. Put on my running shoes. Then head toward the beach.

I think about the surfers as I pass by. How they show up not knowing what waves will come their way. I think about the fisherman. How they cast their line without promise fish will find their hook.

Then I think about how fortunate I am to run on this beach. How I get to soak up the sun’s energy. See the tide break higher than usual. Smell the salt filled air. I am able to increase my stride and feel the wind. My lungs and feet are strong from all the work I’ve done. I sing along Alexi Murdoch as he belts out magic into my eardrums:

Now even breathing feels all right
Yes, even breathing
Feels all right

About an hour later, my will to keep going returns. My fears subtract.

I prepare my tea. Drink my superfood shake. Slice some papaya.

I hug Tracy. Feed Bern. And sit down to write.

Stumbled onto this post by Ben. An awesome metaphor reminding us to just keep going.

Student of Intention Podcast

Between drinking shakes filled with spirulina, wheatgrass, beets and aloe, I also launched a podcast! In episode one, my friend Chris Decker co-hosts and helps me metabolize my relationship with alcohol. It wasn’t an easy subject to tackle but it felt right. Here’s a short clip from episode one:

The SOI Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and wherever you get your pods. Next up, I host my friend, Jake Goble. He shares a bit about health, sleep and bringing his best self to conversations.

For next time (possibly):

How to begin

Kevin’s story

Self love VS Self-ish

Until then,

Don’t wait. Start small. Learn as you go.