Distractions Disguised as Priorities

I’ve fallen victim to self help and business podcasts. On the surface they may appear as a a positive form of content and they can be, but only in moderation. You see, there’s a difference between information and knowledge.

Information consists of facts, ideas, and bullet points. Knowledge, on the other hand, is true understanding—the kind that comes from deep reflection and application. Podcasts fill my mind with information, but before I can absorb and apply it, I’ve already moved on to the next episode. The cycle continues, and the knowledge never cements.

The way we frame and consume content has a powerful impact on our minds. I framed podcasts as an essential source of information—so much so that I didn’t realize I was spending time on ideas that weren’t truly benefiting me. Instead of actively processing what I heard, I was constantly jumping to the next concept, the next insight, the next big idea.

Worse, I used podcasts as an excuse for self-improvement. I convinced myself that I was "working on myself" when, in reality, I was avoiding action. Instead of putting my boots on, trying, failing, and learning through experience, I was stuck in a loop of passive learning, waiting for the "perfect" answer to life’s challenges.

This overconsumption also brought unintended consequences—mainly anxiety. If I couldn’t recall everything I had learned from a podcast, I questioned my abilities. Ironically, I wouldn't feel this pressure if I hadn’t listened in the first place. Maybe turning off the podcast once in a while is the best choice.

Then there’s the guilt of not finishing an episode. Even when I’m not enjoying it, I feel compelled to continue. The sunk cost fallacy kicks in—I’ve already invested time, so quitting midway would mean that time was wasted. But in reality, forcing myself to finish adds no real value.

‘Educational’ content can be compelling, but it’s easy to mistake it for a priority. If you’re not careful, the very thing meant to help you can start to hold you back. The key is balance—consume with intention, reflect before moving on, and most importantly, take action.