What I Needed Today (Maybe You Do Too)

I’m recording a podcast episode from a place of vulnerability because I want to share a moment with you—one of those days when I’m just not feeling like myself. I was just playing with my dog this morning after the school drop-off, feeling a little off—sad, low energy, not in my usual flow—and I thought, “Why not talk about this?”

I know you don’t always have perfect days either. None of us do. And so often, it feels like we’re expected to show up with our best selves all the time, especially when you’re visible online and leading others. But I want you to know that even leaders have off days. Even I have those moments when it feels like I’m juggling too many things and nothing is quite clicking into place.

So, today I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how I’m navigating through one of those days. I’m not trying to put on a happy face and just power through it. Instead, I’m sharing how I honor the feeling while also doing what I can to reset and shift my energy. It’s a quiet, calm episode, but one that I know will speak to so many of you who might be experiencing similar feelings right now.

Here’s what’s been going on for me

This year has felt heavy so far—especially the first quarter. The passing of my father-in-law threw a major shift in the way I started the year, and while grief doesn’t explain everything, it certainly has colored a lot of the experiences I’ve been through. I won’t go into all the details, but I’ve had my share of stresses, like managing family transitions, preparing for retreats, dealing with home renovations (new floors, packing, purging… it felt like we were moving!), and, of course, dealing with my daughter’s cheerleading disappointment, which, as a mom, was really hard. All of these things can really get to your nervous system, and I found myself feeling overwhelmed.

As an Enneagram Seven, I tend to lean into the shadow side of an Enneagram One when I’m stressed—thinking I need to control everything, get everything perfect, and anticipate every possible problem before it happens. Can you relate to that feeling? It’s exhausting. And I had this realization today: I don’t need to carry all of that on my own. It’s not my job to hold everything together. It’s okay to lean into the mess and trust that I don’t have to be perfect. Just because today isn’t going well doesn’t mean I’m failing—it’s simply a moment in time, and it will pass.

what I’m doing to get through it.

I’ve learned through a lot of mentors, therapy, and practical tools that when I’m feeling off, the first step is acknowledging the feeling—no shame, no judgment. Just, "Hey, I’m not feeling my best today. This is part of the experience." From there, I try to shift into neutral. I can’t immediately go from sadness to joy. But I can give myself permission to feel what I’m feeling and allow that to move through me without letting it define me.

The tools I use to do that are what I’m sharing with you in this episode. They may seem small, but they help me make the shift from stuck to starting to move forward, even if just a little bit.

My mental checklist when I’m working through a low moment

Acknowledge the Feeling – I tell myself, "I see you. I know you're here, and that's okay." But I don’t let the feeling take over my identity. I remind myself that I’m not defined by this moment.

Shift to Neutral – I remind myself that it’s not about flipping the switch from negative to positive. It’s about taking baby steps toward feeling a little better. It’s not about running toward the sunshine and rainbows—it’s about finding a neutral place where I can just be.

Connect with Nature – Even just five minutes outside can reset my nervous system. Today, I took a brief walk around the yard, taking in the gorgeous spring greens, hearing the birds chirp, and noticing the little blooms. It’s amazing how nature helps calm me when I’m feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

Take Care of My Body – Today, it’s a protein shake, a big glass of water, and my vitamins. When I’m feeling low, I know my body needs support. I give it the nutrients it’s asking for to help me get the energy I need.

Movement – Movement, whether it’s a 20-minute strength workout or a simple walk, always helps me feel better. Yesterday, I didn’t feel like doing my Peloton strength workout, but I pushed through. By the end, I felt lighter, more energized, and proud of myself for moving through the resistance.

Safe & Sound Protocol Therapy – This is an audio-based tool that helps calm my nervous system. I listen for about five minutes a day, and it’s helped me shift into a more balanced, calm state. It's one of my go-to tools when I’m navigating tough days.

Journaling & Prayer – These practices help me clear my mind and make sense of what I’m feeling. Prayer is simple for me—just talking to God about what’s going on. Journaling helps me externalize my thoughts and lighten the load.

When I take the time to walk through these steps, I always feel a little better. Not perfect, not all the way back to my usual energy, but a little more balanced and grounded. So, friend, if you’re feeling off today too, I hope that at least one of these tools helps you make it through your day a little easier. And remember, tomorrow is a new day.

I’m sending you so much love from the middle of my messy day. Take a deep breath, and know you’re not alone in this. Keep going, and I’ll be here cheering you on. See you in the next episode!

Listen to this episode of the Bloom & Grow Show: