Stop Trying for More - Insights From a Motivational Speaker
We live in a world overloaded with information. Yet, despite the endless books, podcasts, and courses on self-improvement, people still struggle to find fulfillment. Why? Because, as Jonathan Fields puts it, “We don’t have an information problem, we have a digestion problem.”
In his conversation with Michael Port on Steal The Show (Ep. 097), Fields explores why personal development often fails to create lasting change. The problem isn’t a lack of knowledge—it’s the way it’s presented. It’s too dogmatic, overly complex, or demands total system adoption, leading people to disengage before they even begin. His solution? Strip away the complexity and focus on simple, actionable steps that can be integrated into daily life.
Reactive Life Syndrome
A key idea Fields introduces is Reactive Life Syndrome. Many of us wake up and immediately check our emails, bombarded by other people’s demands. Our to-do lists become a reflection of external pressures rather than personal priorities. Instead of moving toward meaningful goals, we become stuck in a cycle of reaction.
The antidote? Awareness and intentionality. Fields outlines three key steps:
- Recognize the trap – Acknowledge that most of your day is dictated by external forces rather than conscious choices.
- Cultivate mindfulness – Develop small daily habits that help you pause and reassess before reacting.
- Act with intention – Focus on what truly moves the needle in your life rather than what simply keeps you busy.
This ties into the concept Seth Godin shared on The Ziglar Show: we live in the safest, richest era in human history, yet we act as if the opposite is true. Instead of endlessly chasing “more,” we should shift our focus to “better.”
The Three Buckets: A Simple Framework
One of Fields’ most powerful strategies is the Three Buckets approach. These buckets represent areas of life that need regular attention to maintain balance:
- Vitality – Physical and mental well-being
- Connection – Relationships and community
- Contribution – Meaningful work and impact
Each day, we should aim to add something to all three. The key is consistency—small, daily actions compound over time, leading to a richer, more fulfilling life.
Being Authentically You
Another striking moment in the interview was when Fields discussed authenticity. He references a line from the Bhagavad Gita:
"It’s far better to live your life imperfectly than to live another’s perfectly."
Many of us play roles imposed by society, striving for external validation. But true fulfillment comes from embracing who we are, unapologetically.
Jonathan Fields’ insights reinforce a powerful message: Stop chasing bigger and start focusing on better. Life isn’t about acquiring more—it’s about deepening what we already have. By stepping out of reactivity and into intentionality, we can build a life that is truly our own.
If this resonates with you, I highly recommend listening to the full episode of Steal The Show. It’s a conversation that might just change the way you approach your days—and your future.
