From Cynical to Curious - stop shutting the door on good opportunities
I'm excited to chat with you about something close to my heart today—the path from cynicism to curiosity. Are you someone who might be closing off opportunities without even realizing it? Let's explore how our default reactions can shape our paths and how a mindset of curiosity can open up a world of possibilities. In this episode, we'll discuss how to ask the right questions and listen to our instincts, all while balancing discernment and enthusiasm for growth. Join me as we embrace the chance to design a future full of promise and opportunity! Show Highlights: Are you a ‘default yes’ or a ‘default no’ person? [01:07] What is cynicism? [03:30] The costs of cynicism’s protective cage. [05:35] Cynicism’s closed door vs. skepticism’s guarded door. [10:39] Balancing healthy skepticism. [13:18] Retain the power of first mover advantage. [15:19] Develop intuitive decision-making. [16:12] How to lead with curiosity with discernment. [20:32] Explore curiosity and decision-making. [22:13] Overcome the two barriers to healthy curiosity. [25:19] Link to the previous Brilliant Balance episode with Todd Herman where he shares the alter ego concept that Cherylanne references: https://brilliant-balance.com/podcast/episode-177-channel-your-inner-superhero-with-author-todd-herman/ Subscribe to the Brilliant Balance Weekly: www.brilliant-balance.com/weekly Follow Cherylanne on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cskolnicki Join the Brilliant Balance Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/281949848958057
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You deserve a big, full life and the freedom to enjoy it. The Brilliant Balance Podcast helps women in leadership design their next chapter for sustainable success—without burnout.
Every week, host Cherylanne Skolnicki, a leading expert in work-life balance, leadership growth, and mindset coaching, shares ideas, inspiration, and insights to help high-achieving women align their ambition with personal fulfillment. Through conversations on leadership mindset, time management, and personal growth, you'll gain the tools to thrive in both your career and personal life.
Whether you're considering a career pivot or craving more time for your personal life, you might find yourself asking:
How do I advance my career—without working 24/7?
Can I achieve my goals while still having time for my family?
How do I stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling in control?
What’s next for me—and how do I design it intentionally?
If you’ve ever wondered how to fulfill your potential without breaking your life, this podcast is for you. In addition to sharing her own insights, Cherylanne sits down with experts, thought leaders, and ambitious women who reveal their strategies for burnout recovery, productivity for women, and redefining success on their terms.
You’ll love the Brilliant Balance Podcast if you like podcasts like: Unlocking Us or Dare to Lead with Brene Brown, Women at Work by Harvard Business Review, The Midlife with Reshma Saujani, We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle, The Mel Robbins Podcast, HerMoney with Jean Chatzky, So Money with Farnoosh Torabi