Are You Growing or Just Distracting Yourself From The Real Work? (2057)

In today’s episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros challenge the feel-good side of self-improvement and talk about the kind that helps you change. They introduce the idea of "Snuggie Self-Improvement"—things that make you feel better but don’t help you grow. From fitness metaphors to mindset shifts, they show how hard, honest work, not comfort, builds confidence, grit, and lasting change.

Alan shares how intense training for a bodybuilding win taught him the difference between doing what's easy and what's necessary. Kevin gives examples of how even helpful-sounding advice can hold you back if it’s not honest. They both highlight the importance of feedback, pain with purpose, and building emotional muscle the same way you build physical strength.

Link Mentioned:
Next Level Monthly Meet-ups - https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/monthly-meetups/ 

Learn more about:
Free 30-minute Business Breakthrough Session with Alan -
https://calendly.com/alanlazaros/30-minute-free-breakthrough-session?month=2025-04
Free 30-Minute Podcast Breakthrough Session with Kevin -
https://calendly.com/kevinpalmieri/free-30-minute-podcast-breakthrough-session-with-kevin

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NLU is not just a podcast; it’s a gateway to a wealth of resources designed to help you achieve your goals and dreams. From our Next Level Dreamliner to our Group Coaching, we offer a variety of tools and communities to support your personal development journey.

For more information, please check out our website at the link below. 👇

Website 💻  http://www.nextleveluniverse.com

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We love connecting with you guys! Reach out on Instagram, Facebook, or via email. We’re here to support you in your personal and professional development journey.

Instagram 📷
Kevin: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Alan: https://www.instagram.com/alazaros88/

Facebook ✍
Alan: https://www.facebook.com/alan.lazaros
Kevin: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.palmieri.90/

Email 💬
Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com
Alan@nextleveluniverse.com

LinkedIn ✍
Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-palmieri-5b7736160/
Alan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanlazarosllc/

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Show notes:
(1:06) The Snuggie metaphor for false progress
(6:10) How to build grit through meaningful goals
(8:45) Pain now vs. pain later—your choice
(13:59) Why fitness discipline is a strong growth example
(15:30) Meet like-minded people and jumpstart your journey to achieving your dreams while optimizing your life. Join Next Level Group Coaching. https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/group-coaching/
(17:37) True growth comes from honest feedback
(21:26) What real coaching looks like
(25:50) Finding the right challenge for where you are
(26:27) Outro

Send a text to Kevin and Alan!