Episode Overview:

In this episode of 5 Year You, Andrew and Catherine dive into the anxiety of always feeling behind in life—whether it's being late to a meeting or feeling like you're falling behind on major life milestones. They share their own stressful morning experiences and discuss the deeper issue of comparing ourselves to others and societal expectations. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of self-compassion, patience, and embracing the fact that we are all on our own unique timelines.

Key Topics Covered:

• 
  
• The Anxiety of Being Late: Andrew and Catherine talk about their personal frustrations with being late and how societal pressure adds to this anxiety.
• 
  
• 
  
• Feeling Behind in Life: They explore the broader concept of feeling late in life, comparing your progress to others, and the stress of not meeting societal expectations.
• 
  
• 
  
• Embracing Your Own Timeline: Catherine and Andrew share how to let go of the invisible "life checklist" and recognize that everyone’s path is unique.
• 
  
• 
  
• Self-Compassion and Humility: They talk about the importance of showing yourself kindness and practicing humility when things don't go as planned.
• 
  
• 
  
• Turning Stress into Compassion: Andrew discusses how moments of stress, like running late, can serve as opportunities to practice compassion for ourselves and others.
• 
  

Actionable Steps for Listeners:

1. 
   
3. Practice Self-Compassion: When you find yourself running late or feeling behind, be kind to yourself instead of self-critical. You’re doing your best.
4. 
   
5. 
   
7. Flip the Script on Being Late: Shift your mindset to recognize that sometimes things happen outside of your control. Compassion toward yourself and others is key.
8. 
   
9. 
   
11. Embrace Your Unique Timeline: Stop comparing yourself to others and trust that you are exactly where you're meant to be in life, at the right time.
12. 
    
13. 
    
15. Create Your Own Traditions: Let go of societal pressures to follow established traditions. Make your own path, whether it’s how you celebrate holidays or how you choose to live your life.
16. 
    

Quotes:

• 
  
• "You're not late. You're exactly where you're supposed to be." – Catherine Collins
• 
  
• 
  
• "A tradition is just something somebody else started a long time ago. You can start your own traditions whenever you want." – Andrew Dewar
• 
  

Glimmers of the Week:

• 
  
• Catherine: Excited about her new thrift store find—a hot pink V-neck sweater that fits perfectly and still had the tags on.
• 
  
• 
  
• Andrew: Enjoyed Canadian Thanksgiving by breaking away from traditional expectations and taking his kids to a funny movie, shopping, and having a meaningful dinner conversation.
• 
  

Resources Mentioned:

• 
  
• Feeling Wheel – A helpful tool for identifying and processing emotions.
• 
  

Connect with Us:

• 
  
• Visit Five Year You to sign up for emails from your future self and take control of your timeline today.
• 
  
• 
  
• Follow us on Instagram @fiveyearyou.
• 
  

Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical or emotional concerns.