<p>Feeling behind this holiday season?</p><p></p><p>You’re not imagining the heaviness. But you’re also not failing.</p><p></p><p>In this solo episode of the <strong>Happy Healthy Hustle Podcast</strong>, </p><p>I unpack why the holidays amplify loneliness, comparison, and the quiet belief that everyone else is somehow “ahead.” </p><p>Through psychology, lived experience, and a deeply personal story from my first holiday season in the United States, this episode reframes what it really means <em>to belong.</em></p><p>This conversation is for anyone whose holidays look different this year. </p><p>Quieter. </p><p>Unplanned. </p><p>Far from home. </p><p><em>Or simply not matching the picture in their head.</em></p><p></p><p>You’ll learn why the pressure you feel isn’t truth. It’s psychology. </p><p>And how small, steady practices can help you feel grounded again, even in unfamiliar seasons </p><p></p><p><strong>In this episode, we explore:</strong></p><p>➡️ Why the holidays intensify comparison, timelines, and the feeling of being behind</p><p>➡️ The spotlight effect and how it convinces us others are judging our lives more than they are</p><p>➡️ Why loneliness feels heavier this time of year and how to release that pressure</p><p>➡️ A personal story from my first holiday season away from Germany</p><p>➡️ How curiosity and spontaneity can create unexpected belonging</p><p>➡️ Why meaningful traditions are sometimes discovered, not inherited</p><p>➡️ How micro rituals build emotional steadiness when life feels unstructured</p><p></p><p><strong>This week’s Petite Practice®</strong></p><p>Choose one small ritual that brings steadiness.</p><p>A walk. A favorite movie. A shared meal. A quiet moment of reflection.</p><p>Repeat it gently. Let it anchor you.</p><p></p><p><strong>A reminder to carry with you:</strong></p><p><em>“You’re not behind. You’re not invisible. And you’re not forgotten.</em></p><p><em>You’re simply in a unique season of your life, and it’s still yours to shape.”</em></p><p></p><p><strong>Connect with Dr. Christiane Schroeter</strong></p><p>Instagram: @doctor.christiane</p><p>Tools, past episodes, and clarity resources: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://doctorchristiane.com">https://doctorchristiane.com</a></p><p>Grab my NEW book <strong>Step Into Your Voice</strong>: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://amzn.to/3YbrgyZ">https://amzn.to/3YbrgyZ</a></p><p></p><p>If this episode resonated, share it with someone whose holidays feel complicated this year.</p><p>And if you enjoyed it, a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review helps more listeners find the show.</p><p>Here’s to calm, clarity, and the quiet reassurance that you are not home alone.</p>