This week, we were supposed to record an episode about a totally different topic—but then real life (and a weed whacker) happened. So instead, Carrie and Emily get honest about what it looks like when your beautiful, color-coded goal list gets trampled by end-of-school chaos, family birthdays, two pages of unchecked boxes, and a spontaneous deep-dive into Christian denominational history. (Yes, really.)

We talk about:

• The guilt spiral of not hitting one single weekly goal

• Why setting “tiny dumb goals” might be the secret to success

• The trauma residue of rigid goal systems (ahem Christian school “offices”)

• How soft goals and flexibility can actually get us further

• ADHD, motherhood, and how hard it is to prioritize play when bills are looming

If you’ve ever set ambitious intentions only to get steamrolled by life—or if your nervous system clutches its pearls when you try to have fun—this one’s for you.

Spoiler: You’re not a failure. You’re a human. And you’re probably doing great.

References:

• 85: The Tender Artist’s Goal Toolkit: Building Habits without Crushing Your Soul with Allie Moss 06.27.25 - episode of Honestly, Dear Listener podcast - aired 6/27/25

• Try Softer: A Fresh Approach to Move Us out of Anxiety, Stress, and Survival Mode--and into a Life of Connection and Joy - book by Aundi Kolber