A Career Lesson I Had to UNLEARN to Truly Thrive

Do you remember the first piece of career advice you ever received? Mine shaped my entire work ethic—and eventually, I had to unlearn it. My first job was at Dairy Queen. When my mom dropped me off on my first day, she gave me advice that would stick with me for years: 'They’re paying you for every hour, so never just stand around. If you don’t know what to do, find something. But never, ever be lazy.' I took that advice to heart, and pretty soon, I was promoted to cake maker—one of the youngest in our store. I carried that mentality into every job after. I worked hard, pushed myself constantly, and believed my worth was tied to my output. But one day, I realized that something was off balance. I was burning out, working 7 days a week, and feeling guilty if I took a day off. It hit me: I was valuing myself based on my work alone.

That’s when I knew I needed to heal something deeper. I needed to let go of the belief that my worth was tied to my productivity. I had to learn to be both soft and gentle, while still fierce and determined. And that shift changed everything.

I know some of you are still caught in the hustle and grind, feeling like you have to prove yourself with every project, every milestone. But what if I told you there’s another way? What if you could let go—even just a little—and embrace a life where work feels easy, light, and joyful?

If you’re finding it hard to let go, it might be because of an underlying belief that needs healing. EMDR can help with that. Let’s chat about how you can start your journey to true freedom. Click here to schedule a time to talk.

Remember, it's not about doing more-It's about the joy in the doing.? And sometimes, that means allowing yourself the grace to rest and grow.

I'm loving this phase of soft, gentle growth instead of fighting and striving to achieve.??

You deserve the joy and peace you desire!? I'm cheering you on!

All my love,? Stacey