Lives of Courage with Jessica Stong

In this special episode of Lives of Courage, I’m inviting you to join me in an honest and heartfelt conversation about facing election anxiety and the difficult choice between love and fear. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty, the high stakes, or even just the noise surrounding election season, you’re not alone. I’ll be talking through my own struggles with stress and sleepless nights, not only around the election but with personal challenges—like navigating a tough situation with a difficult contractor. Together, we’ll explore the “cycle of despair” and how we can break it by choosing a “cycle of hope,” even if things don’t go our way. This isn’t a talk from someone who has it all figured out, but rather a journey of thinking out loud, finding peace, and holding onto love as a powerful act of courage. Let’s walk this path together. 💛

Have you ever found yourself effortlessly outlining what you want for others but freezing up when it comes to your own desires? You’re not alone. In this transformative episode of Lives of Courage, Jessica tackles the powerful question: “What do you really want?” Join Jessica as she delves into the common barriers that prevent us from identifying and pursuing our true desires. Drawing from her extensive experience as a burnout prevention coach and personal stories from her clients, she unpacks why so many of us struggle to articulate what we want for ourselves. From societal expectations and fear of wanting “too much” to the relentless hustle that leaves little room for self-reflection, Jessica explores the deep-seated reasons behind this universal challenge. But it’s not all theory—Jessica provides you with actionable steps to break free from these obstacles and start living a life aligned with your true passions and goals. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why We Struggle to Name Our Desires: Understand the psychological and societal factors that keep us from prioritizing our own wants. Practical Steps to Identify What You Want: Learn how to create space for self-reflection, let go of limiting “shoulds,” and start dreaming big while taking manageable steps. Empowering Exercises: Engage with exercises like imagining your ideal day, creating a “No Limits” list, and the powerful “Why?” technique to dig deeper into your true motivations. Building Courage to Act: Gain strategies to overcome fear and take meaningful action towards your desires, supported by community and accountability. Whether you’re feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or simply curious about your own aspirations, this episode offers the tools and inspiration you need to uncover and pursue what truly makes you happy. It’s time to prioritize yourself and embrace the courage to ask and go after what you want. Tune in to Unlocking Your True Desires: What Do You Really Want? and take the first step towards a more authentic and fulfilling life. Don’t forget to subscribe, share with a friend who needs this, and visit livesofcourage.com to learn more about how you can work with Jessica to transform your life from the inside out. Listen now and start your journey to discovering what you truly want!

In this episode of Lives of Courage, we dive into the importance of having a hobby—a creative outlet that’s just for you. So many of us feel stuck in the cycle of work and family obligations, leaving little time for ourselves. But finding a hobby isn’t just a luxury—it’s a form of self-care. We’ll explore the mental health benefits of crafting, share inspiring stories, and discuss the courage it takes to start something new, especially when being a beginner again can feel intimidating. Drawing inspiration from Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic, we’ll talk about the courage to embrace curiosity and creativity without fear of perfection or failure. Jessica also shares her personal journey with knitting, how it’s helped her through tough times, and why creating space for joy in your life is more important than ever. Tune in to learn why now is the perfect time to embrace your creativity and take that courageous first step toward finding your hobby. Show Notes: CNN article: Making arts and crafts improves your mental health Crafts Council article: Crafts Council: 4 Reasons Crafting is Good for Your Mental Health Additional research on creative hobbies and well-being Google Docs source Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

In this episode of Lives of Courage, we explore the powerful practice of saying no and how it can help you create a life that aligns with your passions and purpose. Drawing from personal experience and the philosophy of "If it’s not a Heck Yes, it’s a no," we discuss how setting boundaries and being intentional with your yeses can lead to more fulfillment and joy. I also share my recent decision to release podcast episodes every other week and how I regularly evaluate my commitments to ensure they still serve me. Tune in for practical strategies, key takeaways, and inspiration to reclaim your time and energy by embracing the courage to say no.

In this episode of the Lives of Courage Podcast, we dive deep into navigating life's pivotal moments—those times when you know it's time for a change, but the path forward seems unclear. Whether you're considering a career shift, going through a personal life change, or simply feeling stuck in your current routine, this episode is for you. Join me as we explore how to embrace the unknown, set intentional goals, build a strong support system, and take actionable steps toward a more fulfilling life. We'll also discuss the importance of reflection and how it can guide you in staying aligned with your values and vision. If you're ready to turn your life in a new direction but need guidance on where to start, this episode offers the insights and encouragement you need to take that first step with confidence. Tune in and discover how to transform uncertainty into opportunity and navigate your journey with courage and purpose.

Are you feeling stuck in a monotonous routine, going through the motions without any real sense of purpose or direction? In this episode of the Lives of Courage Podcast, Jessica explores the pivotal moments in our lives when we feel like we’re on a never-ending moving walkway, just coasting through each day. These moments of stagnation can be powerful signals that it’s time for a change—a turn towards a more fulfilling and vibrant life. Join Jessica as she delves into: Understanding the Moving Walkway: Identifying the feeling of being on autopilot and recognizing it as a sign that change is needed. Emotional Numbness and Dissatisfaction: Exploring how a lack of joy and persistent dissatisfaction can indicate that something in your life needs attention and adjustment. Low Energy and Motivation: Discussing how chronic fatigue and lack of enthusiasm can signal deeper issues that need to be addressed. The Foggy Future: Navigating the uncertainty and decision paralysis that comes with a lack of clarity about your future. Failed Attempts at Change: Reflecting on why previous efforts to change might have failed and the importance of a personalized approach to making meaningful adjustments. Resignation to Mediocrity: Recognizing feelings of resignation as a powerful catalyst for pursuing a life of purpose and joy. Physical and Emotional Exhaustion: Understanding how deep, pervasive exhaustion can be a clear sign that it’s time to reassess your path and prioritize self-care. Jessica shares practical tips and strategies for identifying these signs in your own life and taking actionable steps towards change. If you’ve been feeling unfulfilled or restless, this episode is your guide to recognizing the signs that it’s time to take a new direction in your life. Tune in and discover how to embrace these moments as opportunities for growth and transformation. Don’t miss this insightful episode of the Lives of Courage Podcast, where Jessica provides the tools and encouragement you need to take the first step towards a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

In this powerful and essential episode of the Lives of Courage Podcast, Jessica dives deep into the concept of self-accountability. Often easier said than done, self-accountability is about becoming your own best boss, holding yourself to the commitments you make, and trusting that you will follow through on your promises to yourself. Jessica explores why self-accountability is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment, how we often lose it over the years, and practical strategies to regain it. She discusses the internal and external challenges we face, from societal expectations to our own minds finding excuses. Through relatable examples and actionable steps, Jessica guides you on how to rebuild trust in yourself and stay committed to your personal goals. Tune in to learn: The importance of recognizing and challenging the "shoulds" in your life. The power of "naming it to tame it" to manage your emotions effectively. Practical strategies for setting clear, realistic goals and using external accountability. How to celebrate small wins and adjust your plans as needed to stay on track. Jessica also shares her personal experiences, offering insights and encouragement for anyone struggling to stay accountable to their own goals amidst life's demands. By the end of this episode, you'll have the tools and motivation to become your own best boss and live a life that’s truly aligned with your values and aspirations. Don't miss this episode packed with wisdom and practical advice to help you embrace self-accountability and achieve your dreams.

In this episode of the Lives of Courage Podcast, Jessica dives into a topic that resonates with everyone at some point in their lives: what to do when things don’t go as planned. We meticulously plan, set goals, and envision a clear path forward. But life, in its unpredictable nature, often throws us curveballs, leaving us feeling disoriented, frustrated, and defeated. Join Jessica as she explores: The "Shoulds" We Create: Understand the expectations and assumptions we build about how life is supposed to go and how they set us up for disappointment. Name It to Tame It: Learn the powerful technique of acknowledging and labeling your feelings and thoughts to manage them effectively. The Art of Pivoting: Discover practical steps to adjust your approach in response to changing circumstances without giving up on your ultimate goals. Real-Life Examples: Hear inspiring stories of individuals who successfully pivoted and found new paths to their goals when life didn’t go as planned. Jessica provides practical strategies and real-life examples to help you navigate these challenging moments with grace and resilience. If you’ve ever felt stuck or disheartened when your plans fell apart, this episode is for you. Learn how to recognize, manage, and pivot effectively to stay on course towards your goals. Tune in to discover how to embrace life's unpredictability and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth and success.

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the all-too-common feeling of "This isn't what I thought my life would be." Join host Jessica as she delves into why so many of us find ourselves at this crossroads and what we can do about it. We'll uncover the reasons behind our reluctance to seek help, such as the fear of change, doubt in effectiveness, time constraints, financial concerns, self-doubt, and past disappointments. Learn about the brain's natural resistance to change and why it's so difficult to step out of our comfort zones. Through real-life stories like Charlie's, who faces burnout, anxiety, and a lack of fulfillment, we highlight the urgency for change and the powerful impact that personalized coaching can have. Jessica shares actionable strategies to overcome common objections to seeking help and emphasizes the importance of choosing courage over comfort. This episode is packed with practical advice, scientific insights, and encouraging words to help you take the first step towards a more fulfilling life. Don't let fear or doubt hold you back—discover how coaching can transform your life from "This isn't what I thought it would be" to "This is exactly where I want to be." Tune in to find inspiration, support, and a path forward. Remember, the journey to a better life starts with a single step, and Jessica is here to guide you every step of the way.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the little stories we tell ourselves and how they shape our lives, especially in midlife. Have you ever thought, "I'm too old for this," or "It's too late to change"? These limiting beliefs can hold us back from reaching our true potential. But here's the good news: we have the power to rewrite these stories. Join me as we explore the transformative power of the Stockdale Paradox—a mindset that balances confronting harsh realities with unwavering faith in our ultimate success. We'll discuss practical ways to apply this principle in your life and share real-life examples, including a nonprofit CEO navigating challenges and an individual overcoming midlife burnout. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready for a change, this episode will provide you with the inspiration and tools to rewrite your narrative and create a life filled with purpose and resilience. Tune in and discover how to break free from limiting beliefs and embrace a courageous new story.

In this eye-opening episode of "Lives of Courage," host Jessica challenges the widely accepted mantra of "faking it until you make it" and reveals why this approach can be more harmful than helpful. Discover the pitfalls of unrealistic affirmations and how they can damage your self-esteem and motivation. Instead, Jessica introduces the concept of laddering your thoughts—creating a series of small, believable steps that gradually shift your mindset. Learn practical, science-backed techniques to build genuine confidence and competence without falling into the trap of living a lie. Hear a real-life success story from a client who effectively used laddering thoughts to achieve their goals, and understand how principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and neuroplasticity support this powerful approach. Tune in to explore a more realistic and sustainable path to professional growth, and find out why incremental progress is the key to authentic success. Reject the lie of "faking it until you make it" and embrace the truth of gradual, authentic growth. Join us for this controversial and transformative episode that will revolutionize your approach to self-improvement.

In this episode of Lives of Courage, we explore the transformative power of creativity and why the act of creating is a courageous leap into self-discovery and connection. Jessica dives into what inspires her creative practice, sharing personal stories from her journey as a fiber artist and reflecting on how creativity has helped her process emotions, connect with others, and make meaning in challenging times. Drawing on insights from Rollo May’s The Courage to Create, Jessica unpacks the idea that creativity isn’t just for the “gifted” or “talented”—it’s for everyone. Whether it’s through journaling, cooking, crafting, or solving everyday problems, creativity invites us to confront our fears, embrace vulnerability, and express who we truly are. Jessica also challenges listeners to take one small step toward creativity today, offering encouragement, practical ideas, and the reminder that being a beginner is an act of bravery. This episode is a call to action for anyone who has ever felt hesitant to try something new, reminding us all that the act of creating—no matter how small—is a courageous expression of what it means to be human. Tune in to discover how creativity can transform your life and why now is the perfect time to embrace your own courageous, creative journey.

In this heartfelt and transformative episode of the Lives of Courage Podcast, host Jessica takes you on a deeply personal journey of discovering and setting boundaries. As a recovering people pleaser, Jessica opens up about her struggles with saying no and the profound impact it had on her well-being. She shares how understanding and challenging deeply ingrained schemas—like the fear of abandonment, subjugation, and unrelenting standards—has helped her to start prioritizing her needs and establishing healthy limits. Join Jessica as she unpacks the importance of boundaries in maintaining emotional, mental, and physical well-being, and learn practical strategies for setting and communicating them effectively. Discover the power of the DEARMAN technique from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and how it can help you assert your needs with confidence and clarity. Whether you're struggling with family, friends, or coworkers, this episode offers valuable insights and tools to empower you on your own journey toward healthier relationships and self-care. Tune in for personal anecdotes, expert advice, and a compassionate guide to finding the courage to set the boundaries you deserve. Listen now and take the first step towards reclaiming your energy, respect, and courage!

In this episode of the Lives of Courage podcast, host Jessica explores the essential trait of resilience, sharing inspiring stories and practical strategies for overcoming life's challenges. Discover how to build your inner strength, navigate difficult times, and emerge stronger than ever. Jessica begins by defining resilience and discussing its key components, such as optimism, flexibility, and the ability to find meaning in adversity. She shares a personal story of overcoming a professional setback and highlights the importance of growing through challenges. Listeners will hear real-life examples of resilience, including a single mother who rebuilt her life after the loss of her spouse and a man who overcame severe injuries to advocate for others. An interview with a mid-life professional who navigated job loss and divorce provides further insights into building resilience. The episode offers practical strategies for developing resilience, including cultivating a positive mindset, strengthening social connections, practicing self-care, and setting realistic goals. Jessica also shares exercises such as journaling, visualization, gratitude practice, and mindfulness meditation to help listeners enhance their resilience. Tune in for an empowering discussion on bouncing back from adversity and taking on the weekly challenge to practice resilience-building exercises. Join Jessica and the Lives of Courage community to celebrate your progress and continue on the path to a stronger, more resilient you.

Are you feeling trapped in the monotony of daily life, longing for the passion and dreams you once had? Join host Jessica on this episode of the Lives of Courage podcast as she dives into the mid-life struggle of feeling unfulfilled and stuck in a joyless routine. In this episode, Jessica explores the journey of recognizing unfulfilled dreams and offers practical strategies to break free from the mundane. Through heartfelt personal stories, transformative tips, and powerful mindfulness exercises, you'll discover how to reconnect with your inner self and reignite the passions that have been sidelined by life's demands. Listen to real-life stories from guests who have successfully reignited their dreams, and draw inspiration from their courageous journeys. By the end of the episode, you'll be equipped with actionable steps to start living a more fulfilling and joyful life. Plus, don't miss our exciting weekly challenge designed to kickstart your journey towards rediscovering and pursuing your dreams. Tune in and take the first step towards breaking free from the routine and embracing a life filled with passion and fulfillment.

Welcome back to another episode of Lives of Courage! In this episode, we tackle a universal challenge—feeling stuck. Whether it's in your career, personal life, or a specific project, feeling like you're in a rut can be incredibly frustrating. Listen as we dive into practical steps to help you break free from this stagnation and start moving forward with purpose. We’ll explore the importance of acknowledging your feelings and identifying what's holding you back. I'll introduce you to the 5 Cs of fear—Constraints on Time, Capability, Confusion, Cash, and Commitment—and share real-life examples of how my clients have overcome these barriers. Hear inspiring stories of clients like Sarah, Emily and Rachel, who successfully navigated their way out of feeling stuck by setting small, achievable goals and seeking support. By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable strategies to help you acknowledge your feelings, identify obstacles, set manageable goals, seek support, and take that crucial first step towards change. So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let’s dive into this journey of transformation together. If you find this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review. Share it with someone who might need a little encouragement to get unstuck. And as always, stay courageous and keep moving forward.

In this episode of the Lives of Courage podcast, host Jessica takes you on a journey of setting and achieving courageous goals. Discover how to identify what truly matters to you, break down your aspirations into actionable steps, and navigate obstacles with the powerful AND technique. You'll learn to: Reflect on your passions and interests to set meaningful goals. Create a clear roadmap by breaking down your goals into manageable tasks. Anticipate and prepare for potential obstacles. Use the AND technique (Acknowledge, Name, Direct) to stay focused and motivated despite challenges. Jessica shares inspiring real-life stories of clients who have overcome their fears and achieved their dreams, offering practical tips and insights you can apply to your own goals. Whether you're aiming to start a new project, improve your personal well-being, or achieve a long-held dream, this episode provides the tools and encouragement you need to move forward with confidence and courage. Listen now and take the first step towards achieving your goals with courage and determination! 

Episode Description In this heartfelt episode of Lives of Courage, host Jessica delves into a topic that resonates deeply with many women – the silent struggle of loneliness and the challenge of showing our true selves. Despite our external successes, many of us battle feelings of isolation and the pressure to maintain a façade. Jessica explores the impact of wearing emotional masks, the profound effects of loneliness on our mental and physical health, and the power of vulnerability in building authentic connections. Join Jessica as she shares personal stories, practical tips for making friends, and mindfulness exercises to help you embrace your true self and forge meaningful relationships. Show Notes Introduction: Welcome and introduction to the episode's theme: loneliness and authenticity. Acknowledgment of the paradox of external success and internal loneliness. Segment 1: Understanding the Silence Exploring the inner emptiness many high-achieving women feel. The disconnection between our true selves and the world around us. Recognizing that loneliness is a universal experience. Segment 2: The Weight of Wearing Masks Discussing the emotional masks we wear to protect ourselves. The impact of these masks on forming deep, authentic connections. The isolation and emotional exhaustion caused by maintaining a façade. Segment 3: The Impact of Loneliness Acknowledging the effects of loneliness on mental and physical health. Understanding the link between loneliness and issues like depression, anxiety, and chronic health conditions. Recognizing loneliness as a signal for the need for meaningful connections. Segment 4: Finding Strength in Vulnerability Embracing vulnerability as a strength, not a weakness. Taking small steps towards sharing your true self with trusted individuals. Practicing self-compassion and embracing your humanity. Segment 5: Building Authentic Connections Seeking out communities and spaces where you can be yourself. The importance of quality over quantity in relationships. Being open to different types of relationships and connections. Segment 6: Practical Tips for Making Friends Joining groups and activities with common interests. Being open and approachable in social settings. Using social media platforms to find local events and communities. Following up with new acquaintances to build friendships. Patience in the process of building meaningful connections. Segment 7: Mindfulness Exercise A guided mindfulness exercise to envision a place of ease and support. Embracing the feeling of deserving meaningful connections. Segment 8: Reflection and Challenge Reflecting on times of deep connection and how to bring that into current relationships. A challenge to reach out to someone you've lost touch with or want to know better. Segment 9: A Personal Story Jessica shares her personal experience of loneliness and the journey to forming meaningful connections. Conclusion: Embracing Your Authentic Self Reminding listeners that they are worthy of love and connection as they are. Encouragement to embrace vulnerability and build meaningful relationships. Thank you for listening! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who might need to hear it. And don’t forget to subscribe to Lives of Courage for more inspiring episodes. I'd love to hear your thoughts and stories, so feel free to reach out to me on social media or through my website. Let's continue this journey together. Stay courageous, and until next time, take care of yourself.

In this episode of the 'Lives of Courage' podcast, host Jessica dives deep into the process of unpacking years of accumulated emotional baggage. Many of us carry an invisible weight filled with unresolved feelings, past hurts, and unexpressed emotions. Over time, this can impact our mental and physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Join Jessica as she explores why it's crucial to address these buried emotions and provides practical steps to start the healing journey. From creating a safe space to practicing mindfulness and seeking support, you'll learn how to lighten your emotional load and foster a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you've been avoiding your emotions for years or just want to understand them better, this episode offers valuable insights and tools to help you on your path to healing and growth. Segment 1: Recognizing the Weight Understanding why we carry emotional baggage The impact of unresolved emotions on mental and physical health Acknowledging the contents of your emotional bag The importance of recognizing and addressing these feelings Segment 2: Creating a Safe Space Identifying a physical and emotional safe space Setting up a comfortable environment for emotional work Establishing emotional boundaries and practicing self-compassion The role of a support system in your journey Segment 3: Mindfulness and Reflection Introduction to mindfulness practices Using journaling as a tool for reflection and emotional exploration Guided meditations and visualization techniques Setting intentions for your emotional work Segment 4: Seeking Support The benefits of seeking professional help (coaches & therapists) Reaching out to trusted friends and family Finding and participating in support groups Emphasizing that seeking support is a sign of strength Segment 5: Practical Tips for Daily Life Regular emotional check-ins Setting healthy boundaries Developing a self-care routine Expressing your emotions in healthy ways Incorporating mindfulness and gratitude practices Segment 6: Reflection and Moving Forward Embracing the journey of unpacking emotional baggage Celebrating small progress and being patient with yourself Encouraging listeners to take the first step toward healing Reminder that everyone carries emotional baggage and you're not alone Call to Action: Share this episode with someone who might benefit from it Subscribe to the 'Lives of Courage' podcast for more episodes like this one Follow Jessica on Instagram (@livesofcourage) for more insights and support

Episode Description: In this installment of the Lives of Courage podcast, Jessica addresses the pressing issue of emotional exhaustion. She explores how it affects our everyday lives and offers methods for recovery. The episode differentiates emotional exhaustion from burnout, includes personal anecdotes, and provides practical advice for managing and healing emotional weariness. Jessica also introduces a weekly challenge to help listeners develop a self-care routine that fosters emotional health. Tune in for insightful discussions, reflective questions, and practical steps to rejuvenate your spirit and live with bravery. Show Notes: Introduction: Today's focus: Understanding emotional exhaustion, its impacts, and recovery strategies. Understanding Emotional Exhaustion: Personal experience of handling multiple roles and the resulting emotional exhaustion. Explanation: Emotional exhaustion is the sensation of being emotionally overextended and exhausted by cumulative stress. Emotional Exhaustion vs. Burnout Practical Strategies for Recovery: Journaling for Emotional Release: Tip: Dedicate a few minutes daily to express your thoughts and emotions through writing. Incorporating Physical Activity: Tip: Choose a physical activity you enjoy and aim for at least 30 minutes several times weekly. Practicing Gratitude: Tip: Daily, note three things you are thankful for. Research and Insights: Studies on chronic stress and its link to emotional exhaustion. Reflection prompt: Pinpoint the primary sources of your emotional exhaustion and ways to mitigate them. Instagram Q&A: Managing self-care alongside obligations. Tips for incorporating self-care practices into everyday life. Weekly Challenge: Devise a self-care plan. Choose three activities that promote joy and relaxation. Integrate these into your weekly schedule and observe their effects on your mood and energy. Conclusion: Reminder: Recovery from emotional exhaustion is a gradual process. Encouragement to treat yourself with compassion and prioritize self-care. Call to action: Share this episode with others who might find it useful and join us next week for more guidance and strategies to live courageously. Connect with Us: Follow Lives of Courage on social media: @livesofcourage Explore more resources and information on our website: Lives of Courage Listener Feedback: We value your feedback! Leave a review and share how this episode impacted you. Thank you for joining and contributing to the Lives of Courage community!