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Sometimes you need to adjust your expectations

Published 29 days ago • 2 min read

Hey friend!

Life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs, doesn't it? For months, I've been eagerly anticipating my move back to my hometown early this summer. But what I didn't anticipate was the mental juggling act required to navigate building a new house while simultaneously selling my current one.

With so much to plan for and uncertainty surrounding the completion date of our new home, my productivity and focus have taken a hit lately. It wasn't until fairly recently that I came to terms with the fact that I need to temper my expectations for what I can accomplish during this season.

Disruptions are inevitable in life, whether it's a sudden family emergency, a health setback, or a major career transition. Despite our desire for consistency and stability, our journey is often peppered with unexpected detours.

During these times of upheaval, it's crucial to adjust our expectations accordingly. We can't always maintain the same level of output or focus when faced with challenges. And guess what? That's okay—it's human.

When our lives are in flux, it's natural for our productivity to fluctuate as well. We may find it challenging to concentrate, meet deadlines, or tackle ambitious projects with the same vigor as during calmer periods. And that's perfectly normal.

It's essential to give ourselves grace during these times and recognize that our output does not solely determine our worth. We're complex beings with multifaceted lives, and our value extends far beyond our productivity levels.

So, how do we navigate these choppy waters with grace and resilience? The key lies in tempering our expectations and practicing self-compassion.

Instead of berating ourselves for not meeting unrealistic standards, embrace a mindset of understanding and acceptance. Give yourself permission to take things one step at a time and celebrate the small victories along the way.

So, as you face disruptions in your life, remember to be kind to yourself. Embrace the ebb and flow of productivity and keep moving forward one step at a time.

✨ One Tiny Action To Try This Week

Take a moment to pause and reflect on what's happening currently in your life. Are you experiencing disruptions or major changes that are impacting your ability to be productive?

Consider whether or not you've adjusted your expectations of your output during this time. If you haven't, now is the perfect time to practice self-compassion instead of criticizing yourself for not getting more done.


🌟 Links & Highlights 🌟

📹 I'm over on the Badass Creatives YouTube channel talking about setting 90-day goals. Watch it or read the transcript here.

📚 I'm currently reading and laughing at Starter Villian by John Scalzi. If you're looking for a book that is funny and pure escapism, this is it.

🌖 Are you prepared for Monday's solar eclipse? This article shares a bit about what to expect if you're lucky enough to be in the path of totality.

✂️ My favorite crafty conference is happening this week. Craftcation is an experience, and I'll be taking you along for the ride over in my Instagram stories.


⚡️ One More Thing ⚡️

This is not a drill! Mark your calendars for April 24th, when the Take Tiny Action podcast will return.

It has been almost a year since I've been on the mic, but I'm ready to be back in your earbuds. I have plenty of new ideas and insights to share. 😆

Dream big and act boldly,

Monique

Ways to support this newsletter:

📚 Buy my book Don't Let Fear Have All The Fun

✨ Join the 28-Days of Tiny Actions Challenge

🛍️ Visit the Take Tiny Action Shop

☕️ Buy me a coffee


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✨Take Tiny Action

with Monique Malcolm

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