In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, Laura Lummer dives into the real—and often overlooked—challenges of making and maintaining lifestyle changes after a breast cancer diagnosis. Starting with a powerful quote from Lao Tzu, “If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading,” Laura reflects on the emotional weight, conditioned beliefs, and survival instincts that make behavior change both essential and incredibly difficult. 

Whether you’ve felt stuck in old habits or overwhelmed by the pressure to be “perfectly healthy,” this episode offers a refreshing and compassionate perspective. Laura shares scientific research, personal stories, and practical strategies to help you make lasting, loving changes that align with your true values—not fear. 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

• Why trauma and resistance often block behavior change after breast cancer 

• How conditioned thinking and emotional fatigue affect your motivation 

• The two extremes: falling back into old habits or going “all in” out of fear 

• The surprising science on why a diagnosis alone isn’t enough to change behavior 

• How to set meaningful, manageable goals without stress or shame 

• The importance of self-compassion and social support in sustainable change 

• How fear-based “health perfectionism” may actually harm your peace 

 

Powerful Quotes: 

💬 “We’re more defined by what we do consistently than by being perfect.” 💬 “If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading.” – Lao Tzu 💬 “Self-compassion may buffer against self-criticism and promote resilience in the face of setbacks.” – Health Psychology Journal 

 

Mentioned Research: 

• Cancer survivors and behavior change – Cancer Medicine 

• Review of long-term health behavior after cancer – British Journal of Cancer 

• Exercise and survivor well-being – National Institutes of Health 

• Social support and sustained behavior – International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity 

• Physical activity’s impact on recurrence – IJBNPA 

• Cancer fear and emotional distress – Psycho-Oncology 

• Self-compassion and resilience – Health Psychology 

 

 

Resources & Support: 

👉 Ready to make changes that feel aligned, intuitive, and supportive? Explore personalized coaching, life-changing lessons, and a powerful community of breast cancer survivors inside the Better Than Before Breast Cancer Life Coaching Membership. 

👉 Grab a free download, meal plan, or join the waitlist for metabolic health coaching at thebreastcancerrecoverycoach.com 

 

Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite shows.  Don't forget to rate, review, and share with a fellow survivor who might need this loving reminder today.