Roll On: Why Balance Is Overrated

Striving to achieve a ‘balanced life’ on a daily basis sets you up for failure. Approach it instead from a long-term perspective. Aim for self-awareness. Go all-in on what lights you up. Along the way, be gentle with yourself.

We are here to follow our curiosity, not mercilessly judge ourselves. Awareness is key. Shame is counterproductive.

Welcome to another edition of ‘Roll On’, wherein myself and Lord of the podcast manor Adam Skolnick wane and wax on philosophical, spiritual, and practical ideas both big and small. Beyond bantering sundry matters of varying interest, we play show and tell, share a few wins of the week, and round it out by answering listener questions deposited on our voicemail at (424) 235-4626.

Beyond RRP hype-man duties, Adam Skolnick is an activist and journalist best known as David Goggins’ Can’t Hurt Me, co-author. He writes about adventure sports, environmental issues, and civil rights for The New York Times, Outside, ESPN, BBC, and Men’s Health. He is the author of One Breath and is currently awash in his umpteenth draft of an untitled novel—slowly losing his mind in the process.

Topics explored in today’s conversation include:

• the ultramarathon tragedy in China and why there must be better protocols and oversight in this growing sport;
• thoughts on Adam Grant’s recent NYT article, There’s a Name for the Blah You’re Feeling: It’s Called Languishing;
• Rich’s current approach to writing, motivation, and why balance is overrated;
• SriMu’s Father’s Day Special, 10% off not-cheese boxes for all hard-working dads;
• Hellah Sidibe’s impressive, history making ultra-run across the United States;
• an update on the Iron Cowboy’s history-making Conquer 100;
• Van Neistat’s The Spirited Man series on YouTube;
• the Malcolm Gladwell vs. Chris Chavez journalist / influencer 1-mile challenge; and
• the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku

In addition, we answer the following listener questions:

• How do you create time to care for yourself without disappointing others?
• How do you avoid late-night hunger pangs following a day of rigorous training?
• What is the best way to transition from road to trail running?

Thank you to Sierra (or Ciara) from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Kevin from Northern California, and Ben from Columbus, Ohio for your questions. If you want your query discussed, drop it on our Facebook Page or better yet leave a voicemail at (424) 235-4626.

FULL BLOG & SHOW NOTES: bit.ly/richroll604

YouTube: bit.ly/rollon604

Peace + Plants,

Rich