Ep 10: Break Free From the Artificial Alarm Clocks to Reclaim Your Joy

Shattering Societal Norms: Live Your Life on Your Terms

We delve into a topic that touches so many of our lives: the suffocating pressure of artificial timelines.

The Chains of Societal Expectations

From a young age, society conditions us to adhere to a rigid schedule - graduate college by 22, marry by 30, have children by 35, and climb the career ladder relentlessly. I realized I was living by an artificial alarm clock, too, pressured by these external timelines rather than my own desires and goals. I got married by 50 due to societal expectations, only to find myself divorced not long after. It was a wake-up call: my life, my schedule.

Learning to Embrace Your Own Timeline

It's vital to recognize that these pressures aren't just old-fashioned - they're pervasive. They affect us at every turn, from family inquiries to social media comparisons. However, the truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all timeline for success. Women like Julia Child and Viola Davis found their stride later in life, proving it's never too late to achieve your goals. We must shift our focus from these external pressures to our own paths and pace.

Tips for Breaking Free

1. Self-Reflection:

   Take the time to evaluate your goals. Are they truly yours, or are you pursuing them to meet someone else's expectations?
   

2. Set Boundaries:

   Politely but firmly set boundaries with family and friends who impose their timelines on you.
   

3. Celebrate Small Wins:

   Don't wait for big milestones to celebrate. Acknowledge and revel in the small, everyday achievements.
   

4. Practice Self-Care:

   Take breaks, whether it be a luxurious staycation or simply a serene walk in the park. Recharging is essential.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to listen to the full episode above for a more in-depth conversation on this critical topic. And if you're ready to break free from artificial alarm clocks and embrace a life of BOLDness, consider a one-on-one BOLDness Coaching session with me here. Together, we'll create a life plan that resonates with your unique goals and timelines.

Your Next Move Deserves Strategy, Not Guesswork.

If you’re navigating a career shift, building a business, or simply need clarity on your next bold step, Vaneese offers coaching to guide you. For the DIYers, her audio courses let you learn and grow at your own pace, anytime.

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Stay BOLD and unapologetically you!

In this episode:

00:00 - Empowering women's self-discovery and transformation

06:43 - Unrealistic expectations create pressure and perceived failure

10:05 - Examine life; question imposed timelines and expectations

13:16 - Follow your timeline, not others' expectations

17:41 - Ignored personal needs led to marital breakdown

18:49 - Don't use an artificial timeline for marriage

23:22 - Success can come at any age

28:38 - Desire for podcast thwarted by lack of readiness

31:17 - Schedule fun, self-care, and acknowledge daily wins

35:13 - Everything works out, share your experiences