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GUIDANCE FOR WOMEN NAVIGATING MAJOR LIFE TRANSITIONS & THE JOURNEY BACK TO THEMSELVES
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    Janel Briggs
    Empowering Women to Become Fearless & Confident through Major Career & Life Transitions

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Has Anyone Ever Doubted Your Potential?

3/10/2025

 
​Words and opinions can cut deep. Especially when they come from someone we admire, or someone in a position of authority.

And sometimes, the words we hear in our younger and most formative years echo in our minds for years and even decades later.

Maybe it was a comment you overheard someone say, or an opinion that was made about your capability. An offhand remark from a teacher, a family member, or even a boss that stuck like super-glue to your young mind's identity.
​
And without realizing it, you’ve spent your whole life trying to prove them wrong.
That was the story of my client, Heidi.

When High Expectations Turn Into Self-Doubt

On the outside, Heidi was the definition of “success”. She was a high-performing leader, in a fantastic role, valued by her organization and known to be a person who always strived to go above and beyond.

But on the inside, her inner critic was screaming "you'll never be good enough" on loud speaker.
  • Anxiety disrupted her days and her sleep
  • Work felt exhausting on the constant spiral of overthinking
  • And the pressure she placed on herself second-guessing every decision clouded her mind

Heidi described it this way:
💭 “I’m placing pressure on myself to perform outside my already high capacity, worrying what others think, constantly overthinking things outside my control, and generally feeling like I’m not achieving - when those around me have praise for who I am and what I do.”
Sound familiar?

​
This is the reality for so many perfectionists and high-achievers. You push yourself to impossible standards to achieve many accomplishments - but instead of fueling confidence and pride, those expectations quietly fuel anxiety and burnout.
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The Root Cause of the Lack in Confidence? A Two Decade Old Self-Limiting Belief

Through our coaching together, we uncovered the deeper fear driving Heidi’s perfectionism and self-belief. It all traced back to ONE sentence she overheard someone in a position of authority say about her as a teenager:

“She’s never going to amount to anything.”

Imagine your younger self hearing those words.

The impact can go one of two ways:
  1. You might take the anger and hurt and use it as fuel to prove them wrong, pushing yourself harder and higher… or
  2. You might absorb the fear and pain as fact, letting it quietly sink into your identity and self-worth
For many women the impact usually depends on how much importance they placed on the person who said the words.

For Heidi, the shock, embarassment, hurt, shame and confusion were far too much for her young mind to process.

As often happens, Heidi held an uncomfortable mix of BOTH impacts - driving achievement on the outside, while eroding confidence on the inside.
What if they're right about me? It's probably true. If they believe it, then it must be right. Maybe I'll never amount to anything. 

What we uncovered together in coaching:​

Those words took root and became a self-limiting belief in Heidi's unconscious mind. Quietly shaping how she saw herself for years to come and the reason she was on a perpetual anxiety-burnout cycle in almost every job she held.

Every achievement, every promotion, every late night working was, in some way, tied to proving that belief and that person wrong. Over time that person became her inner critic, the relentless reminder of not being enough, the constant shadow on her achievements.

This is what limiting beliefs do:
​

  • They keep us trapped in cycles of overachievement
  • They fuel imposter syndrome and self-criticism, even when others praise our work
  • They push us towards burnout, with pressure that never lets up
  • And they drain the happiness from success

The Transformation: From Perfectionism to Confidence

After just 8 weeks of working together, Heidi experienced a huge shift. Through a powerful Timeline Therapy® process we released the old limiting belief and insecurities driving her perfectionism and reframed her relationship with success.

Within weeks Heidi was:

  • Promoted into an incredible leadership role
  • Saying yes to speaking engagements she once avoided
  • Making future decisions with clarity, confidence, and self-belief

​Today, Heidi is thriving in a senior leadership role and serving on multiple boards, dedicating her expertise to companies and causes she’s truly passionate about. Not to prove anyone wrong, but because she believes in her own potential.

How to Release the Pressure Yourself

If you’ve been carrying the weight of someone else’s words (or your own impossible standards) here’s where to start:

  1. Notice the trigger → What situation makes your inner critic the loudest?
  2. Name the belief → Underneath all the layers of noise what is the core belief you've decided to be true about yourself?
  3. Is this your belief or someone elses? → Whose voice are you still carrying? Is it even yours?
When you move from proving yourself to believing in yourself, everything changes.

​-Janel Briggs, Confidence & Mindset Coach

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Ready to Reclaim Your Confidence?

Heidi’s story is proof that you’re not defined by the doubts of others - or the impossible expectations you’ve placed on yourself.
​
If you’re ready to release the pressure, break free from old patterns and belief's that have been holding you back from your true potential, I’d love to support you.

My 'University of You' mentoring program is now open for October enrollment.
Book a free Confidence Kickstart Session Today
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The Success Paradox: Why Success Sometimes Feels So Empty

23/9/2025

 
You’ve ticked all the boxes. Climbed the ladder with a steady flow of promotions. Secured the kind of salary and title others might envy.

On paper, it’s a complete success story.
​
Yet instead of fulfillment, you wake up with a dull ache in your chest, a quiet dread before every week begins. That blahhhh sense you’re just going through the motions.

“Why am I not happy at this level of success?”

You’ve done everything “right”: the late nights, the relentless projects, the sacrifices. From the outside, people assume you’ve got it all figured out.
​
But here’s the paradox: the very achievements you worked so hard for no longer bring joy. They’ve somehow become an anchor, weighing you down.

When Success Comes at a Price

For many women I work with, the first signs of the Success Paradox sneak in quietly over time. It often starts with:
​
  • Sunday dread: that heavy pit in your stomach as the weekend ends
  • Chronic overthinking: replaying every meeting, wondering if your ideas sounded “good enough”
  • The endless chase: even when you hit a milestone, the satisfaction is fleeting and there’s always a “next” to prove yourself against
  • Detachment from joy: hobbies, friendships, and self-care slowly disappear under the weight of work demands

​On paper, everything looks perfect. In reality? You’ve been running on empty for so long, it’s become the new normal.
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Why High-Achieving Women Are Most at Risk

Perfectionism plays a big role here. Many ambitious women were conditioned early on to equate worth = achievement. Somewhere along the way, work became more than just work.

It became proof that we’re valuable, competent, and strong.

But perfectionism has a hidden edge: it whispers that no matter how much you do, it’s never enough. That whisper grows louder with every promotion, every project, every pat on the back because now there’s even more pressure not to fail.

Instead of celebrating wins, you move the goalpost and keep running.
​
It’s no wonder so many women in their late 30s and early 40s begin to ask:

Am I actually happy? Or just performing happiness for others?

What I’ve Seen in 8 Years Coaching Women Globally

Across Australia, Singapore, the U.S., London, and Dubai, I’ve coached over 500 women through burnout, perfectionism, and identity crises.

Two common themes always show up:

  1. Women in burnout – ready to stop the cycle, step into higher leadership, or pivot careers, but blocked by a lack of confidence and courage
  2. Women who’ve lost themselves – so laser-focused on career that their identity, relationships, and connection to joy have been pushed aside

For many, the turning point comes when a lifequake happens—a catalyst moment that sparks the question:

​Am I truly fulfilled here?

​That question is often the beginning of transformation.

Three Truths About the Success Paradox

1. Success without alignment feels empty

If your values (freedom, creativity, connection, growth) don’t align with how you spend your time, success will always feel like sand slipping through your fingers.

2. Confidence is built, not bestowed

External validation (promotions, titles, praise) can be fleeting and create dependency. Real confidence comes from silencing the inner critic and trusting your own voice.

3. Burnout is not a badge of honor

You don’t have to destroy yourself to prove your worth. The most successful leaders I’ve coached are those who protect their energy, set boundaries, and create space for their whole identity to thrive.

Breaking Free

The Success Paradox is not a life sentence. In fact, it can be the wake-up call that shifts everything.

When a client says, “I should be grateful for what I have, but deep down I’m not happy,” that’s the exact moment change becomes possible.

Here’s where I recommend starting:
  • Audit your life – Compare where your time and energy go versus what you say you value most. The gaps will reveal your misalignment
  • Challenge the “shoulds” – Every time you think, “I should just push through,” ask: “Whose expectation am I living under?”
  • Reconnect with yourself – Your identity is more than your title. Make space for the parts of you that got left behind (creativity, health, relationships, joy!)

The good news here? You don’t need to wait for a breaking point. You don’t have to white-knuckle your way through another burnout cycle, perfectionist loop, or imposter spiral.

There is another way!

I know, because I coach women into it every day. Women who now lead with clarity, confidence, and a sense of balance they never thought possible.
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Your Turning Point

👉 If the Success Paradox feels uncomfortably familiar, maybe this is your turning point.

Coaching isn’t about adding more pressure - it’s about releasing it. It’s about having a trusted guide who can help you reconnect with yourself, your values, and the confident leader you’re meant to be.

💡 Book a coaching session with me here

Janel Briggs

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The Hidden Mistake Perfectionists Keep Making (That Leads Straight to Burnout)

2/9/2025

 
Perfectionists don’t burn out because they’re lazy.

And they don’t burn out because they can’t handle the workload or lack resilience.

They burn out because they keep making the same hidden mistake on repeat throughout their careers:
​
Believing that working harder will be "the thing" that finally silences their self-doubt.

As a Confidence & Mindset Coach for high-achieving women (and a recovering perfectionist myself!), I see this perfectionism–burnout cycle constantly in my clients.

​Smart, capable women who already have full plates keep piling on more pressure. They believe if they just work harder, organize better, and get more in control, then the self-doubt will finally disappear.​
​“If I just achieve more, I’ll feel better. When I get on top of everything, then this doubt will disappear.”
It’s tempting to believe the answer is more effort. But sadly, true self-worth can’t be achieved through performance. No number of completed tasks, promotions, or achievements will ever silence that inner critic.
​
Confidence and peace only come when you finally step off the treadmill of “do more, be more” and start building worth from a place of self-acceptance - not achievement.
​

Why Hard Work Won’t Fix Perfectionism Burnout

When perfectionists feel the constant hum of “not good enough,” their first instinct is to double down on doing. That usually looks like:
​
  • Writing longer and longer to-do lists
  • Setting stricter goals with tighter deadlines
  • Piling on more pressure to perform
  • Trying to organize or control every detail — including the people around them

But perfectionism isn’t a productivity issue. It’s not about time management or efficiency.

Perfectionism is rooted in fear.

And the harder you try to “fix, manage, or control” that fear by doing more, the louder it gets. That’s why so many perfectionists end up exhausted, overwhelmed, and questioning their worth.

For many high-achievers, this often spirals into workaholism. Staying late, taking on more than anyone else, and wearing exhaustion like a badge of honor.

It looks and feels like productivity, but at its core it’s really just fear running the show.
​

Perfectionism Is Fueled by Fear, Not Productivity

Perfectionism wears the mask of hard work, but at its core it’s driven by hidden fears that fuel behaviors and push high-achievers straight into burnout:

  • Fear of failure
  • Fear of judgment or criticism
  • Fear of not being enough

If you’ve ever found yourself ticking every box and still going to bed feeling like you didn’t do enough… that’s not poor productivity. That’s perfectionism whispering, “Try harder. You’re still not enough.”
​

It’s not a productivity problem. It’s a self-worth problem.
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The Shift That Changes Everything

The turning point for perfectionists doesn’t come from another productivity hack, downloading a new goal-setting app, or committing to a 5-step morning routine.

The real shift happens when you stop trying to fix yourself through hard work and start learning to:
​
  1. Quiet Your Inner Critic
    That voice in your head that says “you’re not good enough” after every achievement? It’s not the truth. One of the simplest tools I teach clients is the Best Friend Test: would you say this thought to your best friend? If not, you don’t get to say it to yourself either.
  2. Build Self-Trust
    Perfectionists often second-guess every decision. They wait for the “perfect” moment to act, which often leads to procrastination disguised as productivity. Self-trust grows when you take small, consistent actions and prove to yourself that you can handle whatever happens next.
  3. Redefine Success
    Perfectionists set the bar so high that it’s impossible to reach. They move the goalpost the moment they achieve something. Redefining success as progress, learning, or simply showing up allows confidence to build from the inside out, not from external achievements.

Breaking Free From the Burnout Cycle

So, what do you do instead? Here are three steps to start breaking the perfectionism–burnout cycle today:
​
  1. Notice the Pattern
    The next time you feel the urge to write a longer list or control every detail, pause. Ask yourself: Is this really about productivity? Or is this about fear? Awareness is the first step toward change.
  2. Interrupt the Cycle
    Instead of doubling down on doing, try a reset. Take a short break. Go for a walk. Breathe. Do something that will help relieve your stress and anxiety. Shifting gears gives your nervous system a chance to calm down and prevents you from spiraling into overwork.
  3. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
    Replace the question “What more do I have to do to prove my worth?” with “Did I make progress today?” Harboring negative emotions is not helpful for anyone. Progress builds momentum. Perfection creates paralysis.

When you stop chasing worth through overworking to prove you’re not the fear inside your head, you finally create space for confidence and peace.
​
That’s when you break free from burnout and step into fearless living!

Janel Briggs

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Ready to Break the Cycle?

If you’re ready to stop running in circles of overwork and burnout, I can help. Through my coaching programs, I guide high-achieving women to quiet their inner critic, overcome perfectionism, and finally feel enough.

👉 Work with me here

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Are High Expectations at Work Killing Your Happiness?

19/8/2025

 
Have you ever walked into the office (or opened your laptop at home) already carrying a silent checklist of how the day should go?

  • Your team should meet every deadline
  • Your manager should recognize your effort
  • The project should be perfect before you release the first draft

And then… reality happens. Deadlines slip. Your inbox fills with “urgent” requests. Someone misses a detail you never would have overlooked.

Instead of feeling accomplished, you end the day frustrated, anxious, and irritated with the productivity level.

This is the quiet trap so many of us (perfectionists!) fall into. Our own 'expectations' can be the one thing stealing our sense of contentment at work.

​When Expectations Clash with Reality

I remember a client telling me about a new team she started managing, 
Janel, I don't even think I set the bar that high, but no one else seems to be able to live up to the standards I believe are necessary. And when they don’t, I feel super frustrated. Like what part of my direction or explanation didn't make sense to them? Why can't they step up?
Maybe you know that feeling too. That sting of unmet expectations and you're view of how the team "should be performing" can spiral quickly:

  • You feel resentful that others don’t work to your standard
  • You second-guess yourself, replaying conversations in your head
  • You even up pushing harder, believing that you must be the only one who can "do it right"

But here’s the thing: our own high expectations of ourselves and our work ethic often don’t match the reality of what others can produce and achieve.

You see, everyone brings different strengths, priorities, and working styles to the table. What feels like standard “baseline effort” to you might feel like “overachieving” or even "unachieveable" to someone else.
​
And when we measure their performance against the ruler of our own perfectionist standards, disappointment is almost always guaranteed.

A Mindset Shift from Expectations to Standards

So, here’s what I tell my coaching clients who are stuck feeling frustrated with unmet expectations: there’s a huge difference between expectations and standards.

  • Expectations are rigid, future-focused imaginary lists of “shoulds” and "musts". They demand that the world (and the people in it) conform to your picture of how it should go and how things should be which often clashes with how things naturally unfold.

  • Standards are flexible, values-based guidelines. They're anchored in honesty and a deep understanding of capabilities (yours and other people's).

For example:
  • Expectation: My team should always go the extra mile to work as quickly and accurately as I do
This expectation comes from the belief that everyone on the team should work like you do.

Expecting that they value precision and a sense of urgency. But, unfortunately not everyone is wired the same way. One colleague might thrive under pressure and move quickly, while another produces their best work when given more time and to work at a slower space to process.

One team member might place a high value on attention to detail, double-checking every number and document before handing it over. Yet another might shine when brainstorming ideas or moving projects forward quickly, even if their work isn’t polished in the same way.

Both approaches have value, but if your expectation is that everyone should perform exactly as you do, you’ll miss the unique strengths each person brings.

  • Standard: I value quality and clear communication (and I will model that in how I lead)

A standard says, “This is the level of quality I can commit to within my capabilities and values system”. The beauty of standards is that they inspire others without imposing unrealistic pressure.

Knowing and accepting each person’s standard creates alignment rather than resentment.

See the difference? Unless you have a team of perfectionists or high achievers in a carbon copy cut out of you one will leave you frustrated when reality falls short. The other will keep you grounded in what you can control.

When you recognize what someone is capable of and how they naturally work best, you can set realistic expectations and meet them where they are. This not only reduces your frustration but also fosters stronger collaboration. Because you’re valuing the contribution they can give, instead of expecting they would show up in a different way.

​Perhaps you could think about a conversation you can have to clarify their strengths, values, and working style.

  • What do I notice this person naturally does well, without being asked?
  • Where do they bring the most energy, focus, or creativity to their work?
  • What does “quality” looks like from their perspective, not just mine?
  • How can I align their standard with the overall goals of the team, so both are honored?
When you lead from standards, you’re not asking everyone to be like you; instead, you’re modeling your values while allowing space for others to contribute from their own strengths.
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Coaching Tips for Easing the Frustration of Unmet Expectations

If you’ve ever felt like your high expectations at work are stealing your joy, here are a few practices to try:

1. Notice the “shoulds"
The moment you hear yourself thinking, “This should have gone differently” or “I should have done more, instead of relying on my team” pause. That’s expectation talking.

Ask yourself: Is this realistic? Or am I holding onto a picture that doesn’t match reality?

2. Redefine success in the moment
Instead of circling in perfectionism, aim for effective.

Ask: What outcome would move this forward today? You’ll be amazed at how freeing it feels to release the impossible standard of needing perfection.

3. Share your standards clearly
Communicate what matters to you: quality, respect, timeliness. Invite your colleagues to meet you there.

Standards unite; expectations can often divide.

4. Reframe “failure”
A project that takes longer than expected isn’t failure - it’s giving you feedback. Use it as data for how to adjust next time. This one shift can transform stress and anxiety into acceptance.

5. Offer yourself compassion
​
Perfectionist's are often the hardest on themselves. Next time you miss your own mark, try saying: "I did my best with what I had today, and that is enough". Compassion softens the edges of expectation.

If you’ve been wondering why work feels heavier than it should, it may not only be the excessive workload it may also be those high expectations killing your happiness.

As a mindset coach, I’ve seen how quickly perfectionist women reclaim their energy and confidence when they shift from unrealistic expectations to healthy standards.

It’s not about lowering the bar. It’s about setting the bar in a way that supports both your success and your well-being.

What if instead of demanding perfection, you gave yourself permission to lead with clarity, kindness, and realistic standards?

That shift doesn’t just change the way you work... it transforms the way you feel about work. Confidence grows. Joy returns.

And balance becomes possible!

​Janel Briggs
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​🔹 If you’re ready to release the weight of impossible expectations and step into a more empowered way of leading, I’d love to support you. This is exactly the work I do with women in coaching - helping perfectionists find freedom, confidence, and a leadership style that feels authentic. Let’s connect and explore what’s possible for you.
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How to Work with a Perfectionist (When You’re Not One)

17/4/2025

 
It takes a perfectionist to know a perfectionist. Yes, I admit I used to be one.

From a young age I was ALWAYS obsessed with doing it “right”, frightfully scared to fail, and I continutally hit mental burnout (time and time again!) from my incessant need to control outcomes and re-do things a hundred times while trying to achieve the elusive perfection.
​
Thankfully, I'm now 5 years into my 'recovery' for my perfectionism. So trust me when I say: this blog comes from personal experience and professional insight.
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If you’re working for (or alongside) a perfectionist - and you’re NOT one yourself - it can feel draining, confusing, and sometimes like you’re never quite “good enough”.

Working with a perfectionist can feel exhausting. Their high standards, constant push for the unachievable, and laser-focus on what’s missing (rather than what’s working!) can leave you second-guessing yourself or wondering if you’ll ever "do enough" to impress them.
​
And if you’re not wired the same way - maybe you're someone who values flow over structure, progress over perfection, or prefers big picture thinking to detailed micro management, then the relationship can feel tense or stressful.

​But here’s the key insight I had to learn the hard way (that might change the game for you too):
Perfectionism isn’t just about a person's need for control - it’s often rooted in an unconscious fear of failure, judgment, or critisim.
Understanding this can help you stop taking things personally and start setting clear boundaries, communicating with more confidence, and creating an ease in your work relationships.
​
The perfectionist’s inner narrative is often:
“If I can control every detail, I can prevent failure. If I can stay across every task, I can ensure nothing goes wrong and I won't be judged or criticised.”
It’s often a desperate need for control, in an attempt to quiet the fear but disguised as diligence. This is why so many perfectionists burnout in the workplace. There is a push-pull of always needing to do MORE.
​
Here are five mindset shifts and practical strategies to help you work with a perfectionist to help you show up with more confidence to protect your peace in the working environment.

1. It’s Not Always About You

As mentioned perfectionists are often driven by a deep fear or insecurity of being judged, failing, or letting someone down. Their meticulousness or over-correction isn’t a always necessarily a reflection of your value - it’s how they manage their own inner critic.

This means:
  • If they’re micro-managing, it’s likely about avoiding mistakes
  • If they’re overly critical, they’re likely just repeating the harsh tone they use on themselves
  • If they’re obsessing over the small stuff, they might be trying to regain a sense of control
​
If you're feeling triggered by any of the above... your best option is to reframe the situation:
“I see what they're doing here. They’re trying to avoid risk, not trying to undermine me.”
This shift in perspective can take some of the sting out of their feedback - and help you stay grounded in your own self-worth.

2. Ask for Clarity - Don’t Assume Anything

Perfectionists have high but often unspoken expectations. They might give broad direction but expect you to give them pixel-perfect outcomes. You don’t need to read their mind, but it's in your best interest to ask clear questions of specificially what they want/need up front (in dot point form!).
​
Try asking:
  • “What does success look like in your mind for this project?”
  • “Are there any details that are most important to you that you want me to know?”
  • “What would you like to see first for review?”
  • "How can I specificially support you in this task?"

​The more clarity you get early on, the fewer revisions later and the more confident you’ll feel knowing you’re aligned doing (xyz) exactly as they outlined!

3. Don’t Absorb Their Anxiety

If you're naturally easygoing or flexible, you might find yourself absorbing a perfectionist’s pressure or urgency. Their energy can be intense and cause undue stress, especially under deadlines.

​The truth is: You don’t have to match their pace or tension to be effective. In fact, you’ll be even MORE effective when you lead as your authentic self.

Hold your own internal rhythm. Breathe. Regroup. Get clarity. Stick to the way you work best.
“I do my best work when I stay calm and centered. Even if they operate differently.”
I can assure you the best outcomes do not come from anxious energy. Someone in the equation has to stay level headed and grounded. Perhaps you're most valuable gift is that you are not stuck in perfectionism spinning wheels with them!

4. Reflect Progress, Not Perfection

One of the hardest things about working with a perfectionist? They often overlook progress in the pursuit of flawlessness outcomes. Sure, we all want success, but when every detail has to be perfect, it can feel like even if we're off by1% nothing is ever good enough.

It can leave you feeling unseen, unappreciated, or like your efforts don’t count. And how will we ever learn and grow if anything other than 100% perfection is failure?

You can help balance this by reflecting progress back to them.

​Try communicating like this:

  • “Here’s what we’ve accomplished so far...”
  • “This version is ready for your input — happy to keep refining.”
  • “Here’s what’s complete, and here’s what’s in progress.”

​You’re not asking for gold stars — you’re guiding their attention to what’s going well, and inviting constructive feedback instead of criticism.

5. Hold Your Boundaries - Know Your Worth

Perfectionists sometimes overstep without realizing it — adding last-minute changes, asking for unnecessary tweaks, or expecting 110% MORE all the time. It can be incredibly frustrating and leave you feeling like no matter how much you give, it’s never quite enough.

However, this is a way to maintain a collaborative relationship while protecting your time and energy.

Try using language like:
​
  • “I can prioritize that change, but it means pushing back on X. Is that okay?”
  • "I’m happy to make updates — but let’s prioritize. Which part is most critical to you right now?"
  • “I’d love your input on what version feels good enough to move forward?”

This communicates that you’re engaged and professional — but also self-respecting with healthy boundaries.

You Deserve to Feel Confident - Even in Tough Work Dynamics

Working with a perfectionist can test your patience, your mindset, and sometimes even your self-esteem! But you don’t have to change who you are to thrive. You just need the right tools and support to navigate it.

​Building real, lasting confidence at work isn’t about becoming louder or more assertive. It’s about knowing your value, communicating clearly, and learning how to stand steady in your strengths — even when others operate differently.

-Janel Briggs
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If this resonated with you and you're looking for ways to stop shrinking yourself around different personalities at work to start owning your space... my 1:1 Confidence & Mindset Coaching is designed just for you.

Whether you’re navigating tricky work relationships, leading a team, or preparing for your next big step up, I’ll help you shift from self-doubt to unshakable self-confidence.

👉 Let’s work together to build the version of you who speaks up, stands tall, and leads with clarity and confidence.

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Setting Healthy Holiday Boundaries: Protecting Your Peace

16/12/2024

 
The holiday season can be a time of joy—but also a source of stress for many professional women managing demanding careers and family commitments.

Navigating holiday dynamics, whether at work or home, often brings pressure to meet expectations, resolve conflicts, and maintain harmony.

However, what I've come to realise is that learning how to set clear boundaries CAN transform this experience!

By managing your time and energy wisely (spending less time with people that drain you!) you can reduce stress, increase emotional resilience, and create space for meaningful experiences and more peaceful in your life.

WHY HEALTH BOUNDARIES MATTER

Setting boundaries isn’t about saying "no" to everything; it’s about saying "yes" to what aligns with your values, energy, and well-being. When you honor your own limits, you can show up more present and engaged in the moments that matter most.

I used to fall into the trap of doing everything for everyone. I was the problem solver and caretaker of my family, as many women are. But without boundaries at this time of year I would be an anxious mess in the weeks leading up to Christmas, my memories of past Christmases that didnt live up to my expectations playing on repeat - affecting my sleep, energy and mood. 

What I've learned is that boundaries aren't about being closed off—they're about protecting your well-being so you can show up at your best, personally and professionally. They'll help you to conserve your time, energy, and mental well-being—allowing you to feel more grounded.

The holiday season is notorious for its demands—extra events, financial pressures, emotional family dynamics, and the endless search for the perfect gift. When you don’t set boundaries, you risk spreading yourself too thin, leaving little room for the things that truly matter.
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4 WAYS YOU CAN START SETTING HOLIDAY BOUNDARIES

​1. Prioritize Your Time and Energy
 
It’s impossible to be everywhere and do everything FOR EVERYONE—so don’t try! Instead, decide what’s truly important to you this season. Is it family movie nights? Baking cookies with your kids? Or maybe just some quiet mornings to recharge?

  • Action Tip: Make a list of your holiday “must-haves” and focus on these. Anything that doesn’t align with your priorities can be politely declined.
 
2. Communicate Expectations Clearly (and Kindly!)

Last week I wrote about the art of saying “no”! Setting boundaries requires open and honest communication with the people in your life. 
  • Action Tip: Whether it’s your boss, family, or friends, clearly articulate what you can and cannot commit to this season. AND what expectations you have, OR behaviour you will or will not allow.

To Family:

“I’m excited to celebrate together, but I can’t host all of Christmas lunch this year. I would appreciate if everyone can contribute (either a dish, or cash towards food etc).”

To Friends:

“I’d love to join the holiday party, but I can only stay for a couple of hours due to other commitments.”

To Your Boss:

“I’m happy to wrap up key projects before the holidays, but I won’t be available after December 23rd as I’ll be offline spending time with my family.”

Setting a Behavior Boundary:

“I understand you have a lot to say about (x topic), but I won’t engage in conversations that feel disrespectful or critical. Please, let's keep it positive and supportive, otherwise I'm tapping out.”

3. Protect Your Mental and Emotional Energy
 
As you know, family gatherings can bring joy—but also drama. It’s okay to limit your time with individuals who drain your energy or create tension.

  • Action Tip: Plan visits for shorter durations or choose neutral venues where you feel more at ease. If the conversation takes a negative turn, excuse yourself for a moment, get outside take a few deep breaths and some time to reset.
 
4. Follow Through with Consistency

Here's the reason why setting boundaries feels so hard, we KNOW that not everyone is going to like your boundaries. People may give you a snarky reply or talk behind your back. At the end of the day though, if they can't respect you and your wishes - then how much air time do they really deserve?? (yes, even if they are FAMILY!)
  • Action Tip: Be consistent in your message and direct to the point, no need to over explain. Some people may push back, they may not reply, or could try you  again. Remember their reaction isn't your responsibility. 

Your Peace, is your responsibility

No one else is going to be looking for ways to bring you more peace. Only you can do that. Now, it may take some uncomfortable conversations and a little practice at following through. But, you are ALWAYS worth it!  

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​About the Author: 
Janel Briggs is a NLP and Timeline Therapy Practitioner on a mission to support women across the globe in overcoming their professional anxieties, imposter syndrome, fears and insecurities to build unwavering confidence and self-belief. Mindset Coaching is about empowering women to rise above self-doubt and become fearless leaders in the pursuit of life and career success! Connect with Janel on social media via Linkedin or Instagram.

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My Secret to Saving Your Sanity for Christmas

10/12/2024

 
Well, the holiday season is here—and it's supposed to be a time of joy, connection, and celebration.

But let’s be real: it can also be one of the most EXHAUSTING times of the year!!

Between work deadlines, social commitments, and family obligations, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s truly important...

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING!

This Christmas, I'm going to let you in on a little secret.

There is 1 thing that I started doing a few years back to save my sanity for Christmas.

Each year I get BETTER and better at it the more I practice it.

​It does mean you might have to do things a little differently, but instead of succumbing to the pressure to “do it all” ... this year I want you to take a moment to pause, reflect, and focus on what matters most.
​

Why Do We Overpack the Holiday Season?

It’s a familiar story: you spend December scrambling to check every box on your to-do list. But why do we do this to ourselves? Research shows:
​
  • 88% of people find the holiday season stressful, according to a study by the American Psychological Association (APA).
  • 69% feel the need to balance work deadlines with holiday preparations, leading to increased anxiety.
  • Social obligations add to the load, with 43% of adults feeling pressured to attend gatherings they don’t actually want to go to.

​The result? Burnout before Christmas Day even arrives.
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RELEASE THE PRESSURE ON YOURSELF! (please...)

Here’s the radical idea I adopted a few years back: 

JUST SAY NO.

  • You don’t have to see everyone in December.
  • You don't have to put your hand up and volunteer for something at every group you're in.
  • You def don't have to lay guilt on yourself for taking a step back this year to just breathe.

Let that sink in.


And the world won’t fall apart if you don't volunteer OR postpone some catch-ups until January—or even February.

And here's my best tip on  how to set that boundary with kindness: 

  • Be honest: “I would love to see you/help out, but I’m at capacity right now. Can we do this in January when life feels a little less overwhelming?” 
  • Reframe it: "January is often a calmer month work wise for me and a better time for me for this (project/event/catch up). Can we post-pone until the new year?"
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I Think We Forget That We Need To Protect Our Most Precious Resource: OUR ENERGY!

I Think We Forget That We Need To Protect Our Most Precious Resource: OUR ENERGY! 

When you reflect on what matters most at Christmas, women usually tell me it's being with FAMILY.

If that resonates with you too - let me ask you then, do you want them to have "what's left of you?" or "the best of you" this year??

I spent TOO MANY years with dregs of energy left by December 24th. I learnt this the hard way.

Your time and energy are the most important resource, and only you can guard them.

💡 Here are some practical tips from my "Holiday Stress Suvivial Kit" that will help you prioritize your mental health this holiday season: 
​
  1. Say “No” More Often
    Give yourself permission to decline invitations or obligations that don’t serve you. Remember, a polite “no” now is better than resentment later. 
  2. Schedule Downtime
    Block out time in your calendar for rest and self-care. Treat it like any other important commitment—it’s non-negotiable. 
  3. Simplify Gift-Giving
    If shopping stresses you out, consider alternatives like donations, experiences, or simple heartfelt notes. A survey by Bankrate revealed that 45% of us feel financial stress during the holidays, so simplifying can ease more than just your mental load. 
  4. Focus on What Brings Joy - Whether it's decorating, singing carols, baking with the kids, or a quiet night in with loved ones - lean into activities that nourish your soul rather than drain it!  

Imagine: a Calmer, More Meaningful Christmas

​Imagine starting the new year not feeling drained, but refreshed and content.

​That’s what prioritizing your mental health this Christmas can do for you. By guarding your energy, setting boundaries, and letting go of unnecessary pressures, you’re not just surviving the holidays—you’re thriving through them.

​So, take a deep breath, step back, and make time for what’s truly important: your well-being. After all, a happier, healthier YOU is the greatest gift you can give yourself—and everyone around you.

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About the Author: 
Janel Briggs is a NLP and Timeline Therapy Practitioner on a mission to support women across the globe in overcoming their professional anxieties, imposter syndrome, fears and insecurities to build unwavering confidence and self-belief. Mindset Coaching is about empowering women to rise above self-doubt and become fearless leaders in the pursuit of life and career success! Connect with Janel on social media via Linkedin or Instagram.


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Are You Measuring Your "Value" by How Productive You Are?

25/11/2024

 
Answer this for me:
  • Do you feel valuable only when you're busy?
  • Pressure to always be productive
  • Constant guilt for resting
  • Fear of judgment when you think about taking time out?
  • Have difficulty enjoying downtime?

​​​How does it feel when you don’t have a million things to juggle or there are zero projects on your plate?

When big life transitions happens and you are actually unable to work, or the kids don’t need as much of your time anymore - and you are perhaps stuck without anything to keep you “busy” so to speak.

If you're anything like me, it probably feels empty. With the mental chatter and a sense of worthlessness creeping in.

These are the same questions I had to ask myself many times when I moved from corporate career to becoming a business owner, and later while starting over as an expat in two countries when there is:

  • No one there to pat your head and give you a good review!
  • No one there to watch all that effort you’ve been putting in and celebrate you!

As women we are somehow wired to believe that “busy and being productive IS our value estimate”.

From a young age, people are taught to link their value to external accomplishments, like academic grades, career success, or financial gains.

Plus this "hustle culture" promotes the idea that the more you do and achieve, the more valuable and successful you are.

And don’t get me wrong, we want ambitious, strong high achieving women in this world!

But THIS can also foster the belief that worth is EARNED... rather than inherent.

​Your Worth Isn’t in Your To-Do List—Here’s Why This Needs to Change.

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​In this short video coaching vlog, I'll unpack why this mindset can be so damaging, especially for high-achieving women! And I share practical ways you can to break free from the constant pressure to "do more".
I'll also touch on:

  1. The harmful impact of Hustle Culture. Constantly striving to “do more” leads to burnout, stress, and even anxiety, creating an endless cycle that makes it hard to rest and recharge.
  2. Ways you can start to break the cycle. Embracing rest and acknowledging it's key to finding balance and peace.
I think you'll love this coaching topic, if you've ever experienced: 
  • Burnout: Exhaustion from always striving to do more, and the never ending to-do list!
  • Self-Doubt: Feeling inadequate or unworthy when not "busy" or "achieving".
  • Anxiety: Worry about not being good enough, without external validation. 

You'll gain insight into you value beyond what you accomplish. My belief is that your worth isn't defined by what you do - it's who you!
​Your self-worth isn’t a by-product of how much you do and achieve - it's in you showing up authentically YOU ~ JB

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​About the Author: 
Janel Briggs is a NLP and Timeline Therapy Practitioner on a mission to support women across the globe in overcoming their professional anxieties, imposter syndrome, fears and insecurities to build unwavering confidence and self-belief. Mindset Coaching is about empowering women to rise above self-doubt and become fearless leaders in the pursuit of life and career success! Connect with Janel on social media via Linkedin or Instagram.

Becoming FEARLESS - Digital Resources!

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The Lifequake: Learning to Embrace The Unknown

11/11/2024

 
If you've ever been in a situation where you've had to stare into the abyss of “the unknown” (or face many unknowns!) you'll know this can be super disorientating and the anxiety is often debilitating.

Your mind circling around all the “what if’s” and “worry" about the future. Usually envisioning everything that could go wrong, which leads to believing it WILL go wrong, which makes it very hard to form important decisions about the future!

I've found that if you can begin to embrace the unknowns (rather than resist them!) you're more likely to build a resilience towards this kind of stress and anxiety.
 

​Here are three mindset tools I use that will help you get started:

1. Acknowledge There Will Be Some Discomfort When Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone

​"I understand that with big life changes like this, it's going to feel uncomfortable for a little while - just until I get my new bearings." ​
Yes - you probably won't know how it will all play out, and you won't have control of every single outcome in this transition. 

Transformation like this requires stepping WAY outside of our comfort zone, and initially that feeling absolutely sucks!

But please, don't be scared of that. The discomfort won't last FOREVER.

Your comfort zone will stretch with each unknown you boldly face.

Everything always works itself out, in one way or another. 
​
And I think "the unknown" gets a bad rap - it doesn't ALWAYS bring the bad outcomes!
It can and often does bring GOOD changes!
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2. Focus On Today: Take It One Step At A Time

Instead of trying to predict and project every possible outcome (good or bad), ground yourself in:
  • What you know today, and
  • What you can do today
Keep your mind in the here and now, on the things you can control within your grasp. 

Zoom in and break everything down into smaller steps, or bite size pieces. When our mind is zoomed out way too far trying to figure out the macro view while in a stress response anxiety alarm will rise.

Take it one step at a time, trust that clarity on decisions will come as you move forward. 

I know letting go isn’t always easy! But it’s necessary to create space for the new and unexpected blessings that can come with change.
​
Every lifequake, no matter how difficult, carries the potential for a fresh start, it will just take some time to unfold.

Remember, you don’t have to figure it all out today, there is no rush. Continue to put one foot in front of the other and you'll keep moving forward.

3. Trust The Answers Will Come To You

You are in fact extremely capable of navigating this chapter of unknown and emerging with a renewed sense of self.

I know it, and deep down you know it too. 

Trust that the answers you seek will arrive in their own time.
 
I have no doubt you've worked through challenges before, and found reasonable solutions. 

All the unknowns that are circling will soon become clear. And clarity often unfolds gradually. 

On thing you can do to help you lean more into trust...

Practice Gratitude:
 
  • Every day, list one thing you’re grateful for within this transition, no matter how small.
  • This could be a new insight, a supportive friend, a conversation that needed to happen, or a new skill you’re learning.

Gratitude will keep you focused on what’s possible instead of what’s impossible.


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​
About the Author:
 
Janel Briggs is a NLP and Timeline Therapy Practitioner on a mission to support women across the globe in overcoming their professional anxieties, imposter syndrome, fears and insecurities to build unwavering confidence and self-belief. Mindset Coaching is about empowering women to rise above self-doubt and become fearless leaders in the pursuit of life and career success! 
Connect with Janel on social media via 
Linkedin or Instagram.

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If you’re looking to learn more about anxiety and the fear surrounding the unknown and ways to naturally relief it, my ebook “Becoming Fearless” is a wealth of knowledge. Offering 12 practical tools to support you beyond what I’ve shared here. Including coaching tips, links to meditations, mindfulness practices and inspirational stories from my clients. You can read more about it [here]. 
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When Life Turns Upside Down: Recognizing a Lifequake

5/11/2024

 

Have you ever had that sinking feeling that life, as you know it was crumbling beneath your feet?

Yes well, that’s exactly what I've felt this year.

I most certainly did not have a “Lifequake” on my bingo card for 2024. Predonimantly caused by a decision my family made to move from my beloved Singapore in Asia, to Florida, USA for my husband's job mid-year. 

Navigating this move seemed easy on the "outlook". But throw in a steep learning curve on natural disasters as we were thrust into two major hurricane evacuations upon arrival, a lengthy furniture shipment delay leaving us in an empty house, two personal injuries (one after the other!) that had me hobbling for weeks, AND just last week a bout of emergency surgery for my son's appendicitis...

I'm just about all out of "sanity" by this point!

The bigger issue here - all of these challenges have meant I've needed to pause and take time off launching my coaching into the USA timezone to reacquaint my nervous system with:

a) my new environment, and
b) this ever evolving version of myself

If you’ve ever felt or experienced something like a “lifequake” before - you'll know there is only one way to explain it... 

It’s extremely UNCOMFORTABLE!

And of course, life must go on, so you do your best to keep things together. While feeling like the LIFE you had carefully constructed is slowly but surely falling apart under your feet.
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What is a Lifequake?

A lifequake is more than just a life change; it’s a deep, pivotal shift that redefines your path and perspective.  

  • Lifequakes often come uninvited and without warning, shaking the very core of who you are and how you see yourself.
  • Think of it like a personal earthquake that affects not just your outer world but also your inner sense of stability and direction. 
  • Most people go through at least three in their lifetime. Some are planned, like changing careers or starting a family, while others are unexpected, like a sudden illness, complex grief or the end of a marriage.  

​Lifequakes tend to mark the start of a transitional phase, one that can last months or even years, where you’re adjusting to a “new normal.” 

How to Recognize When You're In A Lifequake Transition

From my personal experience, the first step to navigating a lifequake is to recognize that you’re actually in one!

Sometimes we’re so caught up in the busy stress of every day life that we don’t even realize we’re going through a transformation.

Here are some signs you may be in a life transition: 
​
  1. Uncertainty about the Future: The goals or identity that once felt “concrete” and guided you, no longer hold the same relevance. You find yourself unsure of what you want, and with so much “change” the future you envisioned feels less certain.  
  2. Overwhelming Emotions: Life transitions often bring a surge of emotions, ranging from anxiety, sadness and grief to frustration and confusion. It’s as if you’re shedding an old skin, and it can feel uncomfortable. 
  3. Questioning Your Identity: When lifequakes strike, they often shake the foundations of our “sense of self”. You may start questioning who you are, especially if the change disrupts roles that have defined you, such as being a spouse, in a specific profession, or a playing a role within your family unit. \
  4. Feeling Stuck or Directionless: You’re moving forward, but it feels like you’re wading through mud. You might feel lost or trapped between who you used to be and who you’re becoming.
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My biggest learning from this entire experience...

Lifequakes, as challenging as they are, have a way of guiding us toward growth and new possibilities.

Even if they don’t reveal the full picture right away.  

This transition can feel overwhelming, but please know it’s also an invitation to  perhaps rediscover yourself and redefine what truly matters for you at this stage of your life. 

In my blog next week (yes, there is a Part 2!)...

I’ll share simple mindset shifts you can make that will help you find more clarity, resilience, and purpose as you navigate through this season of change. 

It's the exact things I’ve been doing this year that have helped me immensly. 

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