The Childhood Stories That Run Your Life (Without You Knowing)

Have you ever felt as if you’re living the same story on repeat—like Groundhog Day, but in real life?

You work hard, often put yourself last, or end up in a career or relationship that's uninspiring. And you make changes.....

You promise yourself, “This time will be different.” But it's not.

That's because you’re following an old script—one you didn’t even write.

Hidden Patterns Run Your Life

As a transformation coach for high achieving women as well as a therapist, I’ve spent decades helping people break free from their deep-rooted patterns. And here’s the truth:

The way you live today is shaped by the stories you absorbed long ago.

Maybe someone told you:

?? “Don’t be difficult.” (So you silence your needs.)

?? “Success means struggle.” (So you push yourself to exhaustion.)

?? “You’re not good enough.” (So you settle for less.)

?? “You’re too old.” (So you don’t even try.)

These words weren’t just opinions. They became rules. You internalized them, acted on them—until they became so familiar they felt like the truth.

Jackie Tantillo host of Should Have Listened to My Mother Podcast and I talk about those stories. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Or right here. LINK IN THE COMMENTS. It may be a mindset shift for you.

Beliefs are not truths; they're fictional and can change

How to Stop the Cycle (For Good)

If you’re stuck in the same patterns, you need a pattern interrupt.

Here’s how:

1. Spot the Hidden Payoff

Every pattern—even the negative ones—serves a purpose. What’s yours giving you? Stability? A way to avoid failure? A familiar comfort? Once you see the why, you can change it.

2. Flip the Script

If your story is “Success means struggle,” challenge it. Look for examples of people who achieve with ease. If your story is “I have to put others first,” ask, “Who taught me that? And what has it cost me?”

3. Try the ‘Opposite Day’ Experiment

Do one thing differently today. If you always say yes, say no. If you never speak up, voice your opinion. If you always play it safe, take a small risk. Patterns break when you disrupt them.

4. Use the ‘Future You’ Filter

Imagine your future self—the one who’s already broken free. How does she think? What choices does she make? The more you think from that version of you, the faster you become her.

5. Rewrite the Rulebook

Most of the “rules” you live by weren’t written by you. So write new ones:

? I can succeed with ease.

? I can set boundaries and still be loved.

? I am capable, no matter my age.

Ready to Break Free from Old Patterns?

We all have stories we’ve carried for years—some handed to us, some made up along the way.

And if you’re thinking,?“Yep, I keep playing the same script and it's exhausting”?then it may be time for a real transformation.

What’s one old story you’re ready to let go right now? Drop that in the comments.

And to keep you focussed on making a good life even better Get Weekly SELF-COACHING TIPS to empower you through your journey.

My clients—professionals, creatives, influencers, business owners, c-suite executives, coaches, and high performing women like yourself who want more — all of them understand that the most significant barriers they face are the ones they set for themselves. My joy is helping others challenge the status quo, break free from old patterns, and achieve a life and business with purpose beyond 'success'.

Let's connect

This week:

THE WEEKLY PODCAST: Are you ready to embrace your next chapter? AGING WITH PURPOSE AND PASSION is the podcast that empowers women over 50 to navigate life’s challenges and thrive through bold, transformative stories. LINK IN COMMENTS

For more podcasts for women over 50 check out the Older Women And Friends Podcast, which explores the contributions older women make and the wisdom they share. LINK IN COMMENTS

Kuel Life The magazine to 'normalize' aging: You'll find my blog posts LINK IN COMMENTS

If you’re looking for guidance in your own transformation, I invite you to schedule a time to discuss it. LINK IN COMMENTS