Very Best of Living

As your host, I'm about to embark on a poignant journey of transition. It's a heartfelt goodbye from Dr. Taylor Hartman, who leaves us with pearls of wisdom that are both timeless and transformative. Through our conversation, he emphasizes the value of consistency, self-compassion, and living in the present, not just for the pursuit of goals. A key takeaway - we should foster our spiritual connection to God, deriving strength from the realization that we are His children. Remember, happiness is personal; don't feel trapped in someone else's definition of it. And more importantly, you can only control yourself, not others. Change is inevitable, embrace it with grace and adaptability. As we turn the page to a new chapter, we delve into the concept of legacy. It's not about physical possessions, but the imprints we leave on people's hearts and the potential to influence future generations. As Cat Larsen steps into the spotlight, she underscores the value of a legacy that transcends time and generations. We discuss the importance of knowing our purpose and trusting in who we are as we move forward. It's a farewell filled with emotion, a celebration of new beginnings, and a reflective conversation around the transformative power of legacy. Tune in for an episode that promises to touch your heart, inspire change and make you ponder your own legacy. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever wondered what it really means to face your fears? Or how deeply our personalities can influence our relationships? Join us as we dissect these mysteries and more in our enlightening conversation with Cat Larsen. Together, we unravel the intricacies of mental health, uncovering how the power of agency can sometimes be a double-edged sword. Delving into the often-avoided topic of anxiety, we highlight the benefits of facing fears head-on and the danger of losing oneself when getting too entangled in others' affairs. We further discuss the fascinating realm of human behavior and relationships, considering how diverse personality traits can both complement and clash in various interactions. Decoding the unique needs of 'reds', 'blues', 'yellows' and 'whites', we offer insights on how to navigate these interactions effectively. This episode is packed with a wealth of wisdom, from understanding the roots of our emotions, the importance of investing in relationships, to tackling the phenomenon of analysis paralysis. So, tune in and join us on this enlightening journey to better understand yourself and the world around you. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Are you ready to unearth the secret to a quality life? Join us, Dr. Taylor Hartman and Cat Larsen, for a thoughtful exploration. We start by unlocking the power of attitudes. Together, we dissect how the mindset we carry can either propel our growth or hinder it, especially during challenging phases of life. We touch upon a crucial aspect of self-trust and setting boundaries, shedding light on the dysfunctionality of enabling. The key takeaway: Stop what doesn't serve you. As we journey further, we delve into the essence of risk-taking and its significance to success. We share our thoughts on the practice of 'paying our dues' - a concept that embodies decision-making and selfless giving without the expectancy of returns. During moments of hardship, the art of giving back holds immense importance. We then navigate towards discovering and embracing our passions, emphasizing the thrilling venture into new experiences. The most beautiful passions are often hidden, waiting for us to explore new territories. Remember, you won't uncover your true passion until you have the courage to try. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever felt the sting of judgment or the heat of burnout? Join us on a global expedition, unpacking our friend Paco's (Cat's Husband) tales of challenging travel experiences, turning discomfort into adventure, and sailing past the icebergs of negativity. We'll explore how Paco, a larger guy with a big love for life, armors up against the daggers of judgment and still manages to diffuse tense situations with surprising charm and positivity. Journey with us as we navigate through the polar plunge of burnout, offering you lifelines on how to stand your ground when you feel unseen, unheard, and unappreciated. We’ll share stories of bravery in the face of adversity, practical advice on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and tips on how to keep your ship sailing smoothly even amidst stormy weather. Whether you're battling personal or professional challenges, get ready for an enlightening voyage filled with inspiring stories, invaluable lessons, and a dose of empathy. It's time to seize the day, avoid burnout, and chart the course to a joyful, fulfilling life. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever wonder how much your personality colors influence your behavior and interpersonal relationships? Brace yourselves for a deep dive into the beautiful palette of the Hartman Personality Profile, guided by yours truly and the brilliant Cat Larsen. We'll be peeling back the layers of the intricate relationship between our core and secondary colors and the surprising ways they shape our everyday interactions and decision-making processes. Join us on this enlightening journey as we share our personal experiences with our own unique color combinations and how this understanding has enhanced our interactions and relationships. We're also blowing the lid off the often overlooked subject of boundaries and entitlement in relationships. By decoding our personality colors, we can tailor the way we manage our relationships and face challenges unique to our color profiles. We delve into the unique struggles blues, reds, and yellows may encounter in building connections and how blues can empower themselves by embracing their truth and learning to trust. We'll also walk you through the ways your secondary color can subtly tint your life experiences. And it doesn't stop there. We're taking a hard look at the unsettling issue of manipulation. We'll arm you with strategies to spot manipulation and build effective boundaries to guard your peace. We'll reveal which colors might be more susceptible to manipulation and how you can identify them. We'll wrap up our discussion on a positive note, emphasizing the central role self-awareness plays in managing our interactions and relationships. Join us in this insightful conversation, and let's color your world with a deeper understanding of yourself and others. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever wondered if your therapist or coach truly understands your dilemma, or are they simply offering superficial solutions? Join us, Dr. Taylor Hartman and Cat Larsen, as we delve into the world of informed decision making in therapy. This episode unravels a real-life situation of a woman struggling with intimacy issues, revealing the dangers of superficial fixes, and the powerful impact of uncovering the underlying truth. We challenge therapists and coaches to be responsible for the advice they give, and stress the importance of not simply treating the symptoms but uncovering the root cause. We shift gears to explore personal ownership and the fear of change that often paralyzes us in relationships. Emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and understanding the consequences of our decisions, we discuss how the desire for more in a relationship can create feelings of unease and obligation. Feeling like ‘the problem’ often stems from a fear of change and a reluctance to take charge. We conclude with a thought-provoking discussion on congruence, and the crucial elements to consider when assessing legitimacy. Tune in for a compelling exploration of therapy, personal responsibility, and the power of informed decision-making. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever wondered how the energy you bring to your relationships can have a transformative impact? As your hosts, Cat and I promise to shed light on this intriguing dynamic, offering insights into how positivity, trust and self-worth are key to fostering a thriving partnership. We unravel the complexities of relationships, exploring how problem-solving can shape memorable adventures from potential catastrophes. Witness how we delve into the heart of what makes a partner desirable, demonstrating the significance of each individual's contribution to a relationship. This conversation takes an exciting turn as we tackle the pivotal role of trust and self-worth. We demonstrate how the energy you contribute to a situation goes beyond your mere presence, leaving an indelible mark on your relationships. The Color Code, a fascinating tool, brings a fresh perspective into our discussion, guiding us through the maze of personal interactions. We don't stop at that; we also consider how adopting an appreciative attitude towards life rather than a bitter one can lead to a wealth of extraordinary experiences. Finally, we get real about the importance of cultivating self-worth outside the confines of a single attribute, revealing how having a trusted confidant can help us build a balanced perspective of our worth. So, join Kat and me, as we embark on this enlightening journey of self-discovery and relationship building. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever had a moment that made you reassess everything you knew? That's what this episode is all about. I, Dr. Taylor Hartman, am joined by my friend Cat Larson, to recount some of our most transformative experiences; from my recent family trip to Peru, to Cat's discovery of the Color Code. We've met some incredible individuals along our journeys and they've taught us invaluable lessons of resilience, humility, and the importance of education. Prepare to be captivated as we share tales about paradigm shifts. We'll look at how Cat's terrifying incident involving her partner dramatically altered her perspective on life. We'll delve into the hospitality of the Peruvian people, and discuss how age and life experience can entirely shift your values. Plus, we'll uncover the meaning and distractions in life, drawing from our personal reminiscences on the importance of resilience, education, and connection. Tune in for an episode chock full of insightful reflections and powerful stories that might just inspire you to look at your own life in a whole new light. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ready to debunk the myth of human potential? Join us, Dr. Taylor Hartman and Kat Larsen, as we venture into the world of potential versus reality. We scrutinize the perils of attaching oneself to someone's potential instead of their present, a risky and often disappointing game of chance. By extending grace and compassion to those in the process of growth, we learn to focus on the here and now, and the tangible progress being made. In the latter part of our discussion, we delve into the fluid dynamics of work-life balance. We shed light on the modern shift towards seeking fulfillment beyond the office walls and how this could actually boost productivity. Furthermore, we expound on how the right milieu can cultivate teamwork and elevate performance. Addressing the elephant in the room, we broach the subject of loneliness in today’s world, providing insights and solutions to combat this pervasive issue. Join us for this insightful exploration of human potential, work-life balance, and the loneliness epidemic. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever stopped to appreciate the nuggets of wisdom hidden within your daily life experiences? Join us, Dr. Taylor Hartman and Cat Larsen, as we unlock the beauty of embracing these gems and their profound impact on personal evolution. Let's take a journey into forging lasting relationships, emphasizing the significance of undivided attention and meaningful time spent together. We'll also explore the absolute necessity of disconnecting from our digital distractions to truly connect with each other and life's authentic moments. In the second part of our enlightening conversation, we delve into the realm of self-love and how it intricately links to our ability to love others. Discover the liberation found in forgiveness, the freedom of loving without expectations, and the paradox that as we become more loving, we invite greater challenges yet simultaneously, develop superior skills to handle them. We'll share some thought-provoking insights on the true essence of giving – not just materially but emotionally – and how these acts of love are more about enriching others' lives than our own. Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the power of love in personal growth and the blessings lying within life's lessons. Questions for Reflection: - Do you set aside time for the people you love the most? - What are you doing to enrich the lives of those around you? What are you doing to show them love? - Why am I so unwilling to embrace loving others without judgement when it will only enhance my life? - To whom am I offering forgiveness instead of trying to punish? Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever found yourself in an emotionally charged group setting, wondering how to navigate through it smoothly without adding fuel to the fire? Well, you are not alone. I, your host, along with my good friend, Cat Larsen, share our insights acquired from experiences of traveling with a large group, which often mirrors the dynamics of any group setting. We feel it's essential to detect selfishness, forgive, and understand, as these are instrumental in shaping our kids' approach to life and in our journey to become more forgiving towards others. Ever felt that despite your best intentions to help, your efforts seem to miss the mark? It's not just about addressing the symptoms, but understanding the root cause. Cat and I emphasize the power of providing a secure environment for open conversations, which allows individuals to express their feelings. We discuss the importance of repeating what we understand from the conversation, as it helps in providing clarity and making the other person feel heard. It's all about fostering safety, intimacy, and understanding in relationships. No, love is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Cat and I explore the Hartman Color Code's different ways of loving, helping us understand our own behavior and how it might create fear in others. We also discuss how recognizing our actions can help us cultivate healthier relationships. Remember, it's not about being right but about understanding different perspectives. Join us in this enlightening conversation as we delve deeper into the complexities of love, relationships, and self-awareness. Thanks for being part of this journey with us. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

What if we told you that something as simple as making lunch for your partner can strengthen your relationship? Join me and my good friend Cat Larson as we explore the beauty of marriage and the heartbreak that comes with a long-term commitment, while emphasizing the importance of self-improvement and embracing virtue. Get ready to discover how constant learning and growing can make a massive difference in your life and relationships. We take a deep look at the power of habits and their impact on our lives, and share some insights on how to develop positive habits like truly listening to others. Learn about the Hartman Personality Profile – a powerful tool that helps you better understand your own motives and develop self-awareness. Take this unique opportunity to not only improve your relationships but also your personal growth. So, grab your headphones and let's dive into this insightful conversation with Cat Larson! Exercise: Pick an area of your life that you’d like to improve in. Choose one habit you’d like to work on this week. Be specific in choosing when and how you will incorporate it. At the end of the week, reflect on how the habit impacted you. Do you ever say, “that’s just the way I am”? This may be a clue that it’s a habit that needs to be examined. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Are you unintentionally playing the victim in your own life? Discover how self-victimization might be affecting your relationships and holding you back from leading a fulfilling life. In this personal and heartfelt episode, we share our appreciation for the beautiful environment we live in and the relationships that enrich our lives, while exploring the challenging concept of self-victimization. Inspired by a heartwarming letter from a listener, we discuss the power of breaking free from the chains of our upbringing and creating a loving environment for our children. However, it's not always easy to recognize when we're playing the role of a victim in our own lives. Join us as we take an honest look at the relationships we have and the role we play in them, and consider the significance of analyzing what we get out of our connections, even those that are challenging for us. As we wrap up our conversation, we take a look at the culture we live in and how it can shape our relationships and our children. We discuss how unsupportive environments can lead to a lack of discipline and how it is important for parents to teach their children to value truth. We extend our gratitude to those who have shared their experiences and stories with us and encourage you to stay connected with us for another thought-provoking discussion next week. Exercise: Look at your life and the things you were taught. What have you done to avoid being a victim? Are there ways in which you are behaving like a victim? Are you placing blame on others instead of looking within? Is someone in your life “owning you”? Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Do you ever feel like life's transitions can be both beautiful and daunting? Join me and my good friend Cat Larsen on this week's episode of Very Best of Living as we candidly discuss navigating through life's ups and downs, from our grandchildren's graduations to saying goodbye to loved ones or leaving a job. Along the way, we delve into the importance of recognizing and celebrating personal achievements without falling into the comparison trap. Traveling can be an amazing adventure, but it can also bring its share of challenges. Cat and I share some of our most memorable travel experiences, as well as the life lessons we've learned from visiting different cultures and places. We also touch on the importance of being present in the moment and truly engaged when interacting with others, especially when providing emotional support to someone who is a Blue personality type. Finally, we tackle the topic of mental resilience and its crucial role in today's society. From discussing society's false notion that anxiety is a badge of honor to the significance of setting our own standards in life, Cat and I explore how individuals can build mental endurance and cultivate personal growth. Tune in as we reveal how forgiveness plays a pivotal role in mental health, and why we should all feel challenged to improve. You won't want to miss this insightful conversation! Remember to follow the HartmanPersonality IG account. There you can participate in “Ask Taylor Tuesdays.” Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Have you ever wished for a second chance after making a mistake? What if embracing these second chances could lead to personal growth and healthier relationships? Join us as we share our own personal stories and explore the concept of second chances in various aspects of life. Listen in as we discuss how different color codes react to granting second chances, with Reds setting hard boundaries and Blues requiring apologies. Learn how to respond to those who might not trust us again, and the power of forgiveness in moving forward. Don't miss this enlightening conversation about the importance of open dialogue and the life-changing impact of embracing second chances. Exercise: Am I willing to accept a second chance and navigate life differently? Is there someone in my life that deserves a second chance? Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

Ever wondered about the key differences between coaches and therapists? Join me and my dear friend Cat Larsen as we dive into an insightful conversation about these distinct professions, and how working with professionals trained in the color code and character code can offer immense benefits. I also share my unique approach as a mental health practitioner, helping clients uncover and tackle the core issues causing them pain. During our chat, we touch on the importance of embracing a positive mindset and the role of supportive partners in reminding us of our achievements. Cat's son also joins the conversation, sharing his experiences of self-discovery and adapting to his new life as an engineer. Discover how coaching can serve as a powerful tool for personal growth and how striking the right balance between taking ownership of our actions and learning to let go can lead to a more fulfilling life. Trust us, you don't want to miss this enlightening discussion! Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

In this episode, Taylor and Cathy discuss the difference between codependence and interdependence. People need relationships and connection to live full lives, but how can we tell when things have slipped into unhealthy territory? Codependency is a pattern of behavior in which one person's sense of self-worth and identity is based on their relationship with another person. Codependents often feel responsible for the other person's happiness and well-being, and they may neglect their own needs in order to meet the needs of their partner. Interdependence, on the other hand, is a healthy relationship in which both partners are independent and interdependent. Interdependent partners are able to maintain their own sense of self while also being supportive of each other. They are able to communicate openly and honestly, and they respect each other's boundaries. Taylor shares the importance of being happy with yourself, without the acceptance of others. In healthy relationships, you must be willing to let go of people and relationships that are not mutually beneficial. You must also be willing to pursue the life you want. Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

What is it that makes you love the game of life? In this episode, Taylor and Cathy share advice from 2 sisters, ages 103 and 106 years. Sometimes we can get stuck in routines and “miss the point” of life. For example, work is not just something we have to do but an opportunity to have purpose and connect. Taylor and Cathy discuss the following items and Cathy shares experiences from her recent trip to Amsterdam. Do these 4 things to get the most out of life: 1. Work 2. Connect 3. Learn 4. Appreciate Read the full article here: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/27/100-year-old-sisters-share-tips-for-staying-mentally-sharp-as-you-age.html Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

There is freedom in admitting you are wrong. In this episode, Taylor and Cathy discuss the dangers of getting stuck in being right. They explain the benefits of sharing uncertainty, being a good listener, asking for help, and (of course) admitting when you are wrong. Some colors may struggle more with this than others. Exercise: - What is being stuck in being right doing to your life? - When is the last time you said, “I got that wrong”? Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.

What makes a meaningful life? Taylor and Cathy explore this topic using scientific research as well as perspectives from those with near-death experiences. They describe a life centered around love and relationships and how best to achieve it. Each color may have different obstacles in getting over themselves and becoming able to fully enjoy life. Exercise: - Think of the quality of the life you are living. Are you learning to fully love others? - Are you taking the easier path? If so, how can you work towards a deeper, more meaningful life? After: A Doctor Explores What Near-Death Experiences Reveal About Life and Beyond by Bruce Greyson Proof of Heaven by Eben Alexander Take the Personality and Character Profiles at TaylorHartman.com. Send questions and comments to Taylor@TaylorHartman.com Or Cathy@TaylorHartman.com with “Podcast” in the subject line.