You Are Not a Spreadsheet: How to Use Data Without Judging Yourself
You are not a spreadsheet—and data doesn't determine your worth.
If you've been a longtime listener of the Slow Living Podcast, you've probably heard Stephanie say this many, many (many!) times: You are not a spreadsheet.
And you aren't.
But that doesn't mean you should ignore the numbers.
When you're trying to change something in your life, data can be incredibly useful. If you're working toward a health goal, you may need to keep track of what's happening. If you're trying to improve your finances, you probably need to look at your bank statements. If you're working toward a goal, some kind of measurement can help you understand whether your current approach is actually working.
Collect the data. Pay attention to the data.
But try to separate the data from the story you tell yourself about the data.
A number is just a number. It doesn't mean you're good or bad, smart or stupid, successful or a failure. It's simply information.
The trick is learning how to look at information without immediately attaching judgment, shame, or emotion to it.
That's what this episode is all about.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why you are not a spreadsheet—and why that matters
- How data can help you make better decisions and track progress
- Why avoiding the numbers doesn't make them go away
- How to separate facts and information from your emotional reaction to them
- Why a number doesn't determine your worth, intelligence, or success
- How to use data as information rather than as a judgment of yourself
A Slow Living Reminder
Data is information. It is not a verdict.
Look at the number. Notice what it tells you. Then decide what, if anything, you want to do with that information.
You don't have to make it mean something about who you are.
You are a person—not a spreadsheet.
Read Stephanie's Book
📖 Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle-Driven World
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Learn More About Stephanie O'Dea
Website: stephanieodea.com
Podcast: stephanieodea.com/podcast
Blog: stephanieodea.com/blog/
Speaking: stephanieodea.com/speaking/
Podcast Notes
Find all podcast notes at stephanieodea.com/podcastnotes
Have a question you'd like Stephanie to cover, or a Slow Living Story of your own you'd like to share? Leave a voicemail.
