Hey yall, and welcome back!! It’s 2026, and we are officially doneee treating our “weaknesses” like flaws. In this episode, I’m breaking down how your insecurities, fears, and obstacles are actually the gateway to your next level...if you know how to work with them instead of against them.I share practical ways to reframe challenges, take action when things feel uncomfortable, and turn everyday moments into opportunities for real self-growth.We talk about:why avoiding discomfort keeps you stuckhow to rewire your brain to act instead of overthinkthe connection between daily habits and long-term successovercoming people-pleasing, fear of judgment, and self-doubtusing obstacles as fuel for confidence, discipline, and alignmentIf you’re trying to level up in 2026, build mental resilience, improve confidence, or step into a stronger version of yourself — this episode is your reminder that the way forward is through.Lock in, challenge yourself this week, and let’s grow.enjoy & dont forget to tweet/ig story me a screenshot of you listening!MY NEW WEBSITE!! Shop merch, sign up for my newsletter, book a coffee chat, & more: http://stellaraeherself.comGet $1000 off the health coach certification program I'm doing with promo code STELLACOACHING https://www.shareasale.com/u.cfm?d=1281553&m=96296&u=1030263I edit using Riverside! https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=stella-holtshop my new glo up merch!! https://stellarae.myspreadshop.com/instagram http://instagram.com/stellaraepodcastlisten to and/or support the podcast: https://anchor.fm/stella-raetiktok: http://tiktok.com/@stellaraeherselftwitter: http://twitter.com/stellaraegoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/10449999-stella-raemy fav books/products/health: https://www.amazon.com/shop/stellaraemy current filming set up:camera: https://amzn.to/4cEQiLOmicrophone: https://amzn.to/3Z2A5gctripod: https://amzn.to/3AEmxgKring light: https://amzn.to/3XxZrShbox lights: https://amzn.to/4e1Q1Ubportable light for phone: https://amzn.to/3XxZspjjoin my patreon for ad-free episodes, early access, merch discounts, behind the scenes, & more! https://www.patreon.com/stellaraepodlisten on spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2DMbeh7EqiqgROIjvW0sI9listen on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-stella-rae-podcast/id125561818200:00 – why your “weaknesses” are actually your greatest strength00:48 – the mindset shift that changes everything in 202601:35 – why the obstacle is the way hit me so hard02:45 – why big goals feel overwhelming (and how to start anyway)03:30 – mastering the level you’re currently at04:15 – what elite athletes understand about growth and discipline05:20 – why avoiding discomfort keeps you stuck06:25 – being honest with yourself about fear, anxiety & avoidance07:30 – the power of facing what makes you uncomfortable08:35 – small daily moments that build confidence fast09:40 – taking action instead of overthinking10:55 – how discomfort rewires your brain for success12:05 – shifting out of victim mindset into growth mindset13:15 – why the path of least resistance holds you back14:20 – taking pride in your space, habits, and daily life15:30 – pushing past embarrassment and fear of judgment16:35 – social discomfort, alcohol, and confidence without crutches17:40 – viewing problems as opportunities to level up18:15 – final reminder: lock in and use obstacles to your advantage#StellaRaePodcast