EPISODE 8: FUEL THE FIRE DON'T FAKE THE FLAME

INTRODUCTION

Ever smiled through a team meeting while mentally planning your escape to a remote cottage in Wales? Or replied “No worries!” to a Friday 5pm request while quietly Googling “how to become a llama farmer”?

This episode is not about pretending everything’s fine. It’s about real optimism - the kind that doesn’t require vision boards, scented candles, or toxic positivity. Just one honest check-in, one tiny shift, and one decision to climb above the line.

If you’ve ever felt flat, burnt out, or stuck smiling through the madness, this one’s for you.

YOU'LL LEARN

1. Catch & Reframe Below-the-Line Thinking – Shift from spiralling to strategy.

2. Give Someone a Boost – Optimism is contagious; be the spark.

3. Switch to a ‘What Now’ Lens – Focus on what’s possible, not what’s perfect.

4. Create a Recovery Ritual – Build a non-negotiable habit to protect your flame.

Tools + Extras

• What Would Caro Do? Advice for guilt-ridden burnout and asking for what you need

• Career Quote Crime: “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day…” gets the takedown it deserves

• Bonus Tool: The Flamekeeper Prompt List: 20 bold reflection prompts to help you reconnect, reframe, and refuel (no toxic positivity required)

• Research from Martin Seligman + optimism’s link to actual longevity (yes, really)