Kreatures Of Habit Podcast: Episode Summary – "The Long Game"
Podcast Information
- Title: Kreatures Of Habit Podcast
- Host: Michael Chernow
- Episode: "The Long Game"
- Release Date: October 7, 2024
- Description: Michael Chernow delves into the significance of daily routines and habits, illustrating how steadfast commitments can pave the way to success. In this episode, he shares his personal philosophies, routines, and the transformative power of consistent habits.
Overview
In the episode titled "The Long Game," Michael Chernow challenges the conventional wisdom that "life is short," advocating instead for the perspective that life is a prolonged journey filled with opportunities for growth and transformation. By emphasizing the importance of consistent, positive habits, Michael illustrates how small daily commitments can lead to profound personal and professional success.
Challenging the "Life is Short" Narrative
Michael begins by disputing the commonly held belief that life is fleeting. He posits that viewing life as long provides a broader canvas for personal development and recovery from setbacks.
“I don't believe that life is short. I believe that life is long.”
[01:16]
He underscores that a longer perspective allows individuals to cherish every moment, even the challenging ones, by recognizing them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
The Importance of Long-Term Perspectives
Delving deeper, Michael compares life's trajectory to investing in the stock market. Just as monitoring daily market fluctuations can lead to unnecessary stress, assessing daily life metrics can result in perpetual dissatisfaction. Instead, he advocates for monthly or yearly evaluations to maintain emotional stability and long-term focus.
“You cannot look at the stock market every single day if it impacts how you feel... You have to look at it on a monthly basis, on a quarterly basis, on a yearly basis.”
[01:16]
Commitment to Daily Habits
Central to the episode is Michael's emphasis on the power of daily habits. He shares his own rigorous morning routine, highlighting how waking up early provides him with uninterrupted time for self-care and preparation for the day ahead.
Personal Morning Routine
Michael outlines his morning practices, which include:
- Early Rising: Waking up between 5:00 and 5:20 AM to gain a head start on the day.
- Spiritual Connection: Engaging in daily prayer to establish a foundation for the day.
- Physical Exercise: Performing 50 push-ups consistently, regardless of location, to build physical resilience.
- Stretching: Incorporating simple stretches like downward dog and cat-cow exercises to maintain flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
“I really try to wake up early in the morning, ideally before the sun rises... It gives me more time to myself.”
[01:16]
“Push ups right after my prayers. I do 50 push ups every single morning... I do them. I do them.”
[01:16]
These habits are not merely routines but commitments that provide Michael with consistency and positivity, regardless of external circumstances.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Michael shares his belief in prioritizing family time over professional obligations when necessary. He expresses joy in spending mornings with his wife and children, valuing these moments above extended gym sessions.
“I would much rather be sitting at the breakfast table with my wife and my kids at 6:30 in the morning than working out in the gym...”
[01:16]
This balance ensures that personal relationships remain a cornerstone of his daily life, contributing to overall happiness and fulfillment.
Overcoming Adversity Through Habits
A poignant moment in the episode is Michael's revelation of his past struggles with heroin addiction. He credits his disciplined habits and spiritual connection as pivotal in overcoming this life-threatening challenge.
“I have lived on both sides of that coin where my habits nearly killed me. I overdosed on heroin. I was dead.”
[01:16]
This testimony underscores the transformative power of positive habits, illustrating how they can rescue individuals from dire circumstances and foster unprecedented personal growth.
Philosophy on Life’s Challenges
Michael candidly acknowledges that life is inherently hard, regardless of one's external circumstances. However, he maintains that a positive and consistent habit framework can help individuals navigate these challenges more effectively.
“Life is hard. There’s no way around it. Life is hard.”
[01:16]
He praises individuals like Rob Dyrdek for embodying a positive mindset, capable of appreciating life's complexities even during tough times.
“Rob Dyrdek is the one guy I think I've ever met in my life that says his life is not hard.”
[01:16]
Building a Brand Around Habits
Michael discusses the inception of his company, Creatures of Habit, which extends beyond products like high-protein overnight oatmeal and sleep support supplements. The brand's core mission is to remind individuals that their habits are pivotal in shaping their destinies.
“Your habits will make you or break you. It’s just that simple.”
[01:16]
He emphasizes that the brand is a manifestation of his belief in the power of consistent, positive habits to transform lives.
Encouragement to Listeners
Towards the end of the episode, Michael encourages listeners to adopt a long-term perspective on life, maintain consistent habits, and share the podcast to help others benefit from these insights. He passionately advocates for the idea that with time and commitment, anyone can reshape their life.
“Life is long, y’all. We got time.”
[01:16]
Notable Quotes
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On Life's Duration:
“I don't believe that life is short. I believe that life is long.”
[01:16] -
On Consistency:
“Consistency in a positive way.”
[00:00] -
On Habits Shaping Destiny:
“Your habits will make you or break you. It’s just that simple.”
[01:16] -
On Overcoming Challenges:
“I overdosed on heroin. I was dead.”
[01:16] -
On Life's Hardships:
“Life is hard. There’s no way around it. Life is hard.”
[01:16]
Conclusion
In "The Long Game," Michael Chernow masterfully conveys the significance of viewing life through a long-term lens, leveraging consistent and positive habits to navigate its inherent challenges. By sharing his personal routines, struggles, and the foundational beliefs that drive his success, Michael offers listeners actionable insights into cultivating habits that can transform their lives. This episode serves as a compelling reminder that with time, commitment, and the right habits, individuals can achieve lasting success and fulfillment.