What if I can’t hold it all together?

2025-01-20

Episode Description: Welcome back to What If? For Authors! In this thought-provoking episode, Claire dives into a topic that resonates deeply with many authors: the fear of losing control when juggling life's many responsibilities. Fresh off a much-needed vacation, Claire reflects on the importance of stepping back, questioning the pressures we put on ourselves, and identifying patterns that lead to unnecessary stress. She explores why we take on so much responsibility, how our desire for control drives this behavior, and the toll it takes on our mental and...

Episode Description:

Welcome back to What If? For Authors! In this thought-provoking episode, Claire dives into a topic that resonates deeply with many authors: the fear of losing control when juggling life's many responsibilities. Fresh off a much-needed vacation, Claire reflects on the importance of stepping back, questioning the pressures we put on ourselves, and identifying patterns that lead to unnecessary stress.

She explores why we take on so much responsibility, how our desire for control drives this behavior, and the toll it takes on our mental and physical well-being. Through relatable anecdotes, actionable insights, and a compassionate approach, Claire challenges listeners to reconsider what they're truly responsible for and where they can let go.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why many authors fall into the trap of being "responsibility addicts"
How taking responsibility can create a false sense of control over unpredictable outcomes
The impact of excessive responsibility on your mental and physical health
How perfectionism and over-commitment often mask deeper fears
Practical strategies to identify and release unnecessary responsibilities
Why focusing on what you can control—your thoughts, feelings, and actions—leads to freedom and meaningful influence

Key Takeaways:

Let go of the reins: You’re not holding as much together as you think, and that’s liberating.
Challenge your thoughts: Not every thought you have is a fact. Question the stories your brain tells you.
Spot the lies: If you're taking on tasks for a sense of control rather than measurable results, it might be time to reassess.
Focus on influence, not control: Shift your attention inward to the things you can control, like your mindset and actions, and let the ripple effects unfold naturally.
Embrace imperfection: Perfectionism is an anxiety response, not a badge of honor. Free yourself from its grip.