The Anxious Creative

The Anxious Creative

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The Anxious Creative episodes

  • Overbooked & Over It – Breaking Free from People-Pleasing

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • The sneaky ways people-pleasing shows up in your business (even if you don’t think you’re doing it!)
    • How to set boundaries without feeling like a terrible person
    • The #1 mindset shift that will help you stop overcommitting
    • Actionable steps to start prioritizing yourself—guilt-free!

    If this episode hit home, take a screenshot and share it on IG—tag me so I can cheer you on! 

    Links & Resources:

    Bourbon Doesn’t Give A Shit Podcast Episode

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    19 min
  • How to Know If You’re on the Right Path (Even When You Doubt Yourself)

    Hey, friend! It’s Dawn, and if you’ve ever felt totally stuck trying to make a decision, you are not alone. I’ve been there—overanalyzing, questioning myself, and straight-up spiraling. In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really going on when we can’t make a choice and how to move forward with confidence.

    What We’re Talking About:

    1. Why Decision Paralysis Happens
      • The real reason you get stuck in overthinking mode.
      • A peek into my own struggles with making choices.
    2. Fear vs. Intuition—How to Tell the Difference
      • Fear is loud, anxious, and panicky—it pressures you to act fast.
      • Intuition is steady, calm, and keeps nudging you in the right direction.
      • Some of my favorite tricks to figure out which one is talking.
    3. Self-Doubt Isn’t Always Bad
      • What if self-doubt actually means you’re growing?
      • Why waiting for confidence before taking action is backward.
    4. How to Start Trusting Yourself
      • The truth: There’s no such thing as a “wrong” decision.
      • Every choice leads to learning—even if it doesn’t go as planned.
      • The key to moving forward without getting stuck in indecision.

    If this episode hit home for you, send me a DM on Instagram (@dawnbradley) and let me know your biggest takeaway! And if you haven’t already, make sure to hit that subscribe button and leave a review—it helps me keep bringing you more of the good stuff.

    Remember, you don’t need to have it all figured out. Just take the next step. I’m cheering you on! 💛

    Links & Resources:

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    13 min
  • Fear of Raising Your Prices? Here’s How to Do It with Confidence

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • The real reason raising prices feels so dang hard
    • How fear of rejection and people-pleasing keep you undercharging
    • Simple mindset shifts to help you stop feeling guilty about charging more
    • A step-by-step game plan to raise your rates without losing all your clients
    • How to handle pushback and attract clients who happily pay your worth

    If you’re ready to stop undercharging and start making what you deserve, take one step from today’s episode and put it into action. And if you need support along the way, send me a DM on Instagram (@dawnbradleyhair) and let’s chat!

    Links & Resources:

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    22 min
  • ADHD in Business: How to Stop Overwhelm and Harness Your Superpower

    ADHD in Business: Transforming Overwhelm into Your Superpower

    Running a business with ADHD can feel chaotic, but your neurodiversity is a strength! In this episode of the Anxious Creative Podcast, I dive deep into how to turn your ADHD into your biggest business advantage.

    In this episode, you'll discover:

    • Why ADHD brains are built for entrepreneurship.
    • How to stop feeling like you're constantly failing.
    • Strategies for working with your brain, not against it.
    • The power of hyperfocus and how to manage it.
    • How to overcome procrastination and fear of failure.
    • The importance of self-compassion and embracing your authentic self.
    • Practical tips for managing overwhelm and building a business that works for your ADHD brain.

    Links & Resources:

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    24 min
  • Why Overthinking is Holding You Back (and How to Break Free)

    In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why we get stuck in overthinking mode and, more importantly, how to break free from it. I’ll share some of my own experiences with decision paralysis, what finally helped me move forward, and the small, practical shifts you can start making today to stop second-guessing yourself and start taking action.

    Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:

    ✅ The real reason you feel overwhelmed (hint: it’s not about how much is on your plate)
    ✅ Why asking for too many opinions can actually increase overwhelm
    ✅ How to simplify decision-making and move forward with confidence
    ✅ The magic of the "three-minute rule" and why it works
    ✅ My personal experience with a major business decision and how I finally got unstuck

    If this episode hit home for you, send me a DM on Instagram and let me know what resonated most. And if you know someone who needs to hear this, share this episode with them!

    And hey—if you’re feeling extra generous, leaving a review helps more creatives like you find this podcast. I appreciate you! 💛

    Links & Resources:

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    21 min
  • Why most service providers fail at charging their worth

    In this episode, I’m breaking down the emotional and mental barriers that hold so many creative service providers back from charging their worth. From the fear of disappointing clients to the struggle with self-worth, I’m sharing my own pricing journey—including the pushback I got when I doubled my rates (yikes!)—and the lessons that changed everything for me.

    💡 Here’s what we’re diving into:
    ✨ The fear of disappointing clients (and how it’s keeping you underpaid)
    ✨ Why your self-worth isn’t the same as your pricing
    ✨ How to calculate your rates based on facts, not feelings
    ✨ The hidden costs in your business that you might be overlooking
    ✨ How people-pleasing could be costing you thousands 💸
    ✨ The confidence shift that makes charging your worth feel easy

    If you’re tired of working your butt off but still feeling like you're barely scraping by, this one’s for you. 

    Links & Resources:

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    Free Workshop: www.dawnbradley.com/freeclass

    26 min
  • How to Stop Procrastinating and Get Unstuck

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    • The deceptive nature of procrastination and how it keeps you stuck.
    • The role of self-worth and external validation in fueling procrastination.
    • The importance of setting and enforcing boundaries in personal and professional life.
    • Practical steps to embrace messy, immediate, and imperfect action.
    • How to reframe mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than reflections of self-worth.

    ✨ Key Takeaway:

    Perfectionism and over-planning are just fancy forms of procrastination. The best way to break free is to take messy, imperfect action—because waiting for the "perfect" moment only keeps you stuck.

    Timestamps:

    [00:00] Introduction: The Sneaky Nature of Procrastination
    [01:20] The Allure of Planning and Its Pitfalls
    [02:10] The Fear of Criticism and Seeking External Validation
    [02:25] Overextending for Clients and the Need for Self-Validation
    [03:30] The Victim Mentality in Over-Giving
    [04:20] Disassociating Self-Worth from Mistakes
    [05:01] The Oxygen Mask Analogy: Self-Care First
    [06:07] The Importance of Consistency and Maintenance
    [07:11] Identifying the Root Causes of Procrastination
    [08:27] Taking Risks and Learning from Mistakes
    [09:46] The Value of Making Decisions and Taking Action
    [11:04] Enforcing Boundaries and Policies in Business
    [12:14] Sharing Personal Mistakes to Build Connection
    [13:17] Overcoming Feelings of Unworthiness
    [14:30] The Impact of Self-Worth on Client Relationships
    [16:05] The Role of Boundaries in Reducing Frustration
    [17:01] Taking Immediate Action Despite Fear
    [18:07] Addressing the Root Fears Behind Procrastination

    Links & Resources:

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    Free Workshop: www.dawnbradley.com/freeclass

    21 min
  • How I enforced my policies & had clients respect me more than ever

    In this episode, I share:

    • The Root of People-Pleasing: Explore the fear of disappointing others and the need for external validation that drives people-pleasing tendencies.
    • Cultivating Inner Confidence: Discover practical strategies for building self-worth and confidence, including journaling, meditation, and celebrating small wins.
    • Communication is Key: Learn how to communicate boundaries and policies with compassion and authority, using specific phrases and techniques.
    • Real-Life Examples: Hear personal anecdotes and client stories that illustrate the challenges and rewards of setting boundaries.

    ✨ Key Takeaways:

    • Understand that prioritizing your well-being and enforcing your policies ultimately leads to greater respect and stronger relationships with your clients.

    👉 Tired of feeling walked all over? Ready to finally set boundaries and gain the respect you deserve? Tune in now and transform your client relationships!

    Links & Resources:

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    Free Workshop: www.dawnbradley.com/freeclass

    25 min
  • 3 Steps to Speaking Clearly & Compassionately - even when you're under pressure

    In this episode, I share:

    • Why avoiding difficult conversations can actually make things worse.
    • How my personal experience with conflict avoidance led to the loss of a friendship.
    • The 3-step AIR method to help you navigate challenging conversations with confidence and compassion.
    • How to increase your adaptability in unexpected situations.
    • Why improvisation is key to responding creatively when things don't go as planned.
    • The importance of regulating your nervous system to stay calm under pressure.
    • Practical techniques for regulating your nervous system, like box breathing and the pause method.

    ✨ Key Takeaways:

    • Avoiding confrontation can sabotage your relationships and business.
    • Adaptability, improvisation, and a regulated nervous system are crucial for handling challenging conversations.
    • Confidence is born from courage and vulnerability.

    👉 Ready to communicate with clarity and compassion, even when you're stressed? Tune in now!

    Links & Resources:

    Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.

    Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley

    Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  

    For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

    Free Workshop: www.dawnbradley.com/freeclass


    Timestamps for Key Topics:

    [00:00] Introduction
    [01:19] The importance of clear and compassionate communication, even under pressure.
    [02:52] The challenges of communication and conflict.
    [03:56] Introducing the AIR method.
    [04:12] What the AIR method stands for.
    [04:22] Adaptability: How to adjust to unexpected situations.
    [08:59] The importance of being adaptable in difficult conversations.
    [11:59] How to practice adaptability.
    [16:21] The importance of inquiring rather than assuming.
    [17:38] Improvisation: Thinking on your feet.
    [19:59] The importance of being vulnerable in difficult conversations.
    [23:54] Regulated Nervous System: How to stay calm under pressure.
    [29:50] The importance of separating the person from their actions.
    [33:41] The impact of stress on communication.
    [34:35] How to practice the AIR method.

     

    36 min
  • The Anticipation Trap: Why Fear Feels Bigger Than It Is (and How to Take Action Anyway)

    In this episode, I share:

    • My terrifying yet exhilarating experience of skydiving and what it taught me about fear.
    • Why the anticipation of a decision is often scarier than the decision itself.
    • How overthinking keeps us stuck in fear and robs us of opportunities.
    • The truth about decision-making—there’s no right or wrong, just movement forward.
    • Why failure, regret, and mistakes are necessary stepping stones to growth.
    • The power of focusing on your mission, vision, and goals to make aligned decisions.

    ✨ Key Takeaways:

    • Fear is often rooted in anticipation, not reality.
    • Inaction is a decision too—and it’s one that often leads to regret.
    • The faster you take action, the faster you can course-correct and grow.

    👉 Ready to break free from fear and overthinking? Tune in now to discover how to take bold steps in your life and business today.

    Links & Resources:

    • Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.
    • Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradley
    • Youtube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley
    • For more info on RYB, Retreats etc -: www.dawnbradley.com

    Timestamps for Key Topics:

    [00:00] – Introduction: Facing the Fear of the Unknown
    [00:17] – Story of My First Skydiving Experience: Nervous Anticipation vs. Reality
    [02:16] – Why Anticipation Makes Fear Feel Bigger
    [03:14] – How Fear Dissipates Once You’re In Action
    [04:09] – The Danger of Not Making a Decision
    [05:45] – Personal Growth Through Tough Decisions: No Regrets
    [06:02] – The Trap of Overthinking and Procrastination
    [07:11] – The Power of Positive What-Ifs
    [09:04] – The Value of Risk: My Own Business Leap
    [10:09] – Learning from Failures and Making Bold Decisions
    [12:33] – The Power of Moving from Overthinking to Action
    [13:07] – Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone: Overcoming Stage Fright
    [13:24] – Conclusion: Take Action to Overcome Fear

    22 min

About The Anxious Creative

From the publisher's feed

I know I’m not the only creative out there who struggles with anxiety. But I’m pretty sure we can all agree that it sucks. For a long time I felt so alone in my struggles. Like no one understood what…