How novel writing became a creative life raft during challenging times? With guest speaker Michael Nest

Aligned and Thriving Podcast | Strategies for Work Life Balance

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Welcome to "Aligned and Thriving," where today our guest is Michael Nest, an award-winning author and consultant in the anti-corruption and anti-fraud field. Michael was born in rural Australia, completed his studies at the University of Melbourne, and has lived in various places, including New York, Dili, and Montreal. He has recently published his first novel, "Take Out the Jocks," and will be sharing insights into his approach to work life balance and the creative process.

Podcast Episode Summary:

• Michael Nest discusses his approach to work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of taking breaks and setting boundaries.
• Michael Nest, a former consultant and author, reflects on a career shift to a less interesting job for practical reasons.
• This change causes them to fear losing their identity and becoming mundane. They emphasize the significance of creative projects in maintaining a balance between an engaging life and work, resisting being solely defined by economic roles.
• Michael reflects on the differences between writing nonfiction and fiction, the role of creative projects in maintaining mental well-being, and the impact of structured timeboxing on his productivity.
• He also highlights the significance of balancing personal responsibilities, such as caring for his mother-in-law, with his professional and creative pursuits.

Take Out the Jocks Novel - https://www.amazon.com.au/Take-Out-Jocks-feminist-revenge/dp/1738184013

Take Out the Jocks Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555254423522

Connect with Michael Nest in LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/michael-nest-8141144

Connect with Judith Bowtell on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judith.bowtell
To learn more about how we can work together: https://www.albanylane.com.au/
Come say hi on: https://www.facebook.com/AlbanyLane/
Let’s be Instagram friends: https://www.instagram.com/judithbowtell/
Let’s stay connected on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-bowtell-4977a04/
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Chapters

1. Discussion about Michael's current life in Montreal and his approach to work-life balance. (00:01:43)

2. Michael talks about his routine of taking breaks during the day, often involving outdoor activities. (00:02:02)

3. Michael discusses his transition from consultancy work to a full-time job, the challenges it brought, and the inspiration for his novel. (00:04:26)

4. Michael reflects on the role of escapism and how fiction writing became a way to cope with the challenges of a full-time job. (00:07:54)

5. Discussion on the importance of breaks during the workday and the impact of external structures on creative productivity. (00:09:27)

6. Exploration of the values fulfilled through the creative project and the impact on Michael's sense of self. (00:16:34)

7. Explanation of the novel's premise, targeting young athletic men, and the main characters' motivations. The title of the novel is revealed: "Take Out the Jocks." (00:22:30)

8. Comparison of men and women's fears and the lack of understanding between genders. (00:27:42)

9. Importance of open conversations about work-life balance. The variation in people's thresholds around work-life balance and the need for dialogue on the topic. (00:29:06)

10. Advice on work-life balance, setting parameters, taking breaks, and identifying a time to switch off. (00:31:45)

11. Closing remarks and thanks to the guest for sharing insights. Encouragement to read the guest's novel, "Take Out the Jocks," available on Amazon. (00:34:02)