Diana Hill, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, international trainer, podcast host, and a leading expert on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—a revolutionary approach to psychology that is changing our understanding of mental health. She is the author of four books including I Know I Should Exercise, But…, The Self-Compassion Daily Journal, ACT Daily Journal, and her latest, Wise Effort.
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Episode cheatsheet
The big takeaway
Clinical psychologist and author Diana Hill breaks down how to move from overwhelmed, overscheduled, and burnt out to energized, focused, and values-driven living. Through the concept of “wise effort”—rooted in Buddhist practice but retooled for modern life—she explores aligning your energy with what matters, using your unique strengths, opening up to discomfort, and practicing radical acceptance, even when your calendar feels non-negotiable.
From burnout to wise effort: Practical wisdom for a fuller, less frenzied life
Key takeaways
Wise effort is about channeling your energy into what truly matters, using your strengths in a way that feels both meaningful and sustainable—not just productive.
Feeling stuck, avoiding discomfort, or clinging too tightly to the way things “should” be are the three main forces that pull us away from wise effort.
Acceptance and psychological flexibility don’t mean letting life roll over you—instead, they’re powerful tools for showing up with more vitality and choice, no matter your circumstances.
Understanding what you value (often by looking at regrets or pain points) and tuning into your personal “genius energy” can unlock new approaches to old problems, even when your to-do list feels endless.
6 practical ways to refocus your energy wisely:
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