A few days ago, I went for a long walk. No phone. No recorder. Just me and the quiet of the woods.

That’s unusual for me. Normally, I’m always recording something — podcast episodes, course materials, you name it. But that day, I needed to step back.

Why? Because I was burning myself out. Trying to keep up with my own routines, like cranking out five podcast episodes a week, just because I set that standard for myself. It’s great to have goals, but the constant push to achieve them was making me feel like a machine.

Here's what I’ve started to realize:

☑ It’s not about output. It’s about effort.
↳ Pushing yourself to hit a goal often leads to burnout.
↳ Focusing on consistent effort, no matter how small, brings progress.

☑ Curiosity over judgment.
↳ Instead of berating yourself for not meeting expectations, ask: Why couldn't I?
↳ This simple, curious question unlocks real solutions.

☑ You don’t have to be perfect.
↳ Embrace where you are today.
↳ Stop letting your worth depend on measurable results.

☑ Find peace in the journey, not the outcome.
↳ Happiness doesn’t magically appear at the end of the road.
↳ It starts by embracing where you are right now.

This Lent, I’m trying something different: Instead of rigid rules and unrealistic goals, I’m focusing on the journey itself. Taking small steps. Allowing myself to be human.

What helps you find balance when life gets overwhelming?