STEVE PODCAST GUEST: Becoming Happier (or Playing to Your Strengths)

As an actuary, I discovered that pursuing my other interests and hobbies not only brought me to life but also enhanced my career. I've shattered the myth of having to choose just one path and found a fulfilling balance between my diverse passions. Learn how to break free from societal norms, pursue your dreams, and create a life that aligns with your multi-passionate nature. Let's dive into the exciting topics of career exploration, work-life balance, and embracing your inner innovator and problem solver.

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It’s Steve here, and today I want to share my inspiring journey of unleashing my inner multitasking genius. You see, I’ve always felt like I was meant for more than just crunching numbers as an actuary. I knew deep down that I had other passions and interests waiting to be explored. And let me tell you, embracing those passions has been the best decision I’ve ever made!

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with the amazing Jennie O’Connor on her podcast, where I spilled all the details of my adventure in discovering and embracing my multi-passionate nature. Let me be the living proof that you don’t have to follow a linear career path or give up your passions to pursue a certain path. You can have it all, my friend!

My story began with a love for math. I was pretty darn good at it, and people around me encouraged me to pursue a career as an actuary. So, that’s what I did. But deep down, I knew there was more to life than crunching numbers and spreadsheets. I couldn’t contain my other interests any longer, so I started dabbling in various hobbies and volunteering with non-profits. Little did I know that these seemingly unrelated pursuits would lead me to an incredible world of podcasting.

Now, some people warned me that I would get burnt out from doing too much. But you know what? The opposite happened. I found that doing what I loved gave me energy and brought me to life. So, I continued my actuarial work while exploring my other passions. And guess what? I discovered that I didn’t have to choose just one thing. I could embrace all my passions and create a life that truly fulfilled me.

My story is a shining example for anyone who feels trapped in their current career or believes they have to give up their passions to conform to societal norms. Let me tell you, my friend, it’s possible to break free and create a life that aligns with your multi-passionate nature.

So, if you’re struggling to reconcile your passions with your career, take a page out of my book. Don’t be afraid to explore your interests and pursue your passions, even if they seem unrelated. Embrace your inner multitasking genius and let your journey lead you to amazing places you never thought possible.

Finding Balance as an Innovator and Problem Solver

Now, let’s dive into another exciting topic: finding balance as an innovator and problem solver. In a world that talks about work-life balance, I have to confess that shutting off my mind and taking a break doesn’t come naturally to me. I’m what you might call a catalyst, always pushing for more. Relaxation for me means creating and getting things done.

But I’ve come to learn that not all forms of relaxation are created equal. Sitting in front of the TV with people who aren’t engaged in conversation gives me anxiety. I crave connection and engagement on a deeper level. And you know what? That’s okay. We all have different ways of finding balance, and it’s about honoring our unique personalities and needs.

Jennie, values spending quality time with people as her love language. And while our approaches to relaxation may differ, we both agree that the traditional idea of work-life balance can be a bit laughable for people like us. Our passions and interests often take precedence, leading to seasons of intense devotion to a particular project or endeavor.

As for me, I consider myself an innovator and problem solver. I thrive on starting new things, pouring my energy and effort into them, and then moving on to the next adventure. It’s a pattern that has played out in both my career and personal life. And you know what? I’ve come to embrace it. It’s who I am.

About The Author

Steve Fredlund Keynote Speaker

Steve Fredlund is The Safari Dude. As a professional actuary in human resources analytics, he uncovered surprising factors that enhance employee engagement, and work enjoyment; key elements for effectiveness, enhanced retention, productivity, and organizational success.

Minnesota to Rwanda, nonprofit to corporate, start-ups to Fortune 500 companies he brings to your event thirty years of leadership success. Steve’s personal safari mission is to help great leaders and their teams enjoy an epic safari by getting the right peeps in their jeeps and in the right seats

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