In today’s episode, Colleen dives into the balancing act of self-awareness and how it shapes not just our choices, but our fulfillment. She shares her raw personal journey of realizing that she had built a life that looked great on the outside—checking all the right boxes—but left her feeling empty. Instead of blaming external circumstances, she started asking better questions:

• Am I actually interested in what I’m doing?
• Am I feeling truly engaged, or just performing?
• What do I want more of in my life—and what do I no longer need?

This episode is about curiosity, not judgment. If you’ve ever had a nagging feeling that something isn’t quite right, but you can’t put your finger on it—this conversation will help you explore the real source of that disconnect and how to gently shift toward what actually energizes you.

 

Key Takeaways: 1. The Difference Between Interest and Obligation

• Just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean you actually enjoy it.
• Being surrounded by people with shared interests is fulfilling—if those interests are truly yours.
• The more aligned you are with your own desires, the less effort it takes to engage.

2. When You’re Not Fully Present, It’s a Sign

• Feeling distracted or disengaged in a conversation? That’s useful data.
• If you often find yourself “playing along” but not actually excited, that’s worth noticing.
• It doesn’t mean you have to ditch people—it means you get to explore what you are really drawn to.

3. Self-Awareness Creates More Meaningful Connections

• The most fulfilling relationships happen when we are fully ourselves.
• Instead of trying to force interest in things that don’t resonate, consider what does spark curiosity for you.
• Adjusting your social landscape doesn’t have to be dramatic—small shifts in how you spend your time can lead to major fulfillment.

 

 

Actionable Steps to Tune into Your Own Interests:

✔ Notice when you feel engaged vs. when you’re on autopilot. Is this activity (or person) energizing you—or are you just going through the motions?

✔ Shift from judgment to curiosity. Instead of thinking, I should like this, ask: Do I actually like this?

✔ Give yourself permission to explore. What’s something you’ve always been curious about but haven’t pursued?

✔ Take small steps toward what excites you. You don’t need to overhaul your entire life—start with one simple shift.

 

Homework:

🚀 Pay attention this week— when are you fully engaged, and when are you just “there”? Even subtle awareness can help you start making choices that feel more like you. You'll see  Click here to BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL. If you’re ready to fully commit to your personal growth and do the work to get emotionally sober (side effects include an 80 percent reduction in drinking),You'll walk away from our call with a clear understanding of how to get the skills you need to transform your life.

 

Do you want help from Colleen with a situation you’re struggling with? Click here to submit your question for Colleen’s NEW Q& A episodes. Your name will not be mentioned on air! 

 

—Want daily updates from me? Find me on TikTok @hangoverwhisperer and IG @thehangoverwhisperer  

 

—Click here to TAKE THE QUIZ: Do you have a drinking problem or a thinking problem?

 

Transcript:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QkJJJP8wFU2bhEttUs64TY5rcXJYqEzsPj_5IpX60ZU/edit?tab=t.0