Faith oracle card

You Are Worthy, Mama Bear: Breaking Free from the Pinball Machine Called Life

If the title caught your eye and you find yourself nodding along, you’ve probably uttered these words to yourself more times than you can count: “Why does this seem so impossible at times?” or “It’s never going to effing slow down!” Do you feel like you’re going a million miles an hour, feeling like a ball in a pinball machine, and even when you commit to self-care, it just seems to get sabotaged?

Does this sound familiar? The pressure of work, managing kids, and supporting aging parents can feel like a relentless tide. You might desperately want to stop eating when you’re full or make that smart choice to go to bed, but you stay up just for a few moments of peace, paying for it the next day. You know exercise makes you feel better, yet it’s the first thing to go when life gets hectic. Do you feel like you’re terrified of stopping because you feel like if you did, you’d never get back up? Can you see how this leads to genuine burnout, tears, and a rattled feeling?

You’re constantly pouring into others, juggling expectations, and often internalizing other people’s stress, anxiety, and frustration. It feels like the world just takes and takes, and rarely gives back. You might even find yourself saying, “I shouldn’t feel this way,” or battling the thought, “If I bring someone in to help, I have failed.”

But here’s a truth: You are worthy.  What if you could unlock a deep state of worthiness so that you can call in and experience the miracles you deserve?

I pulled this card today during my daily practice and it is in alignment with this message, wouldn’t you say?

……’Prayer has the power to move mountains, so accept what is rightfully yours’

Imagine a life that looks like liberation. Picture being able to take up space without shame or judgment and not worrying about looking selfish. Can you envision shifting toward calm and consistently protecting your peace? What if you could feel more like you’re in the driver’s seat and less like that pinball, making space for you for real relaxation, exercise, or connecting with friends and family?

“Faith will help you to unlock a state of worthiness so that you can call in and experience the miracles you deserve”

This isn’t just a dream. This is about making what you know are the best choices with ease, having systems in place that help you have a clear mind and a manageable schedule. It’s about recognizing your importance, respecting yourself enough to stand up for yourself, and valuing yourself above the chaos.

Are you ready to move from feeling like a ball in a pinball machine to being in the driver’s seat of your own life? How will it feel to finally claim the peace, time, and space you’re worthy of? Here are a few ways we can begin:

  1. Discover Your Path: Take my free “The Overwhelmed Woman’s Inner GPS” quiz to pinpoint what’s truly draining your energy and chart your unique roadmap to peace. [Take The Quiz Here: https://coach-wendy.com/peace]

You deserve to protect your peace.

In love & light,

Coach Wendy's signature

Coach Wendy smiling after assembling the patio box

The Patio Box Challenge: A Metaphor for Overcoming Overwhelm (And How You Can Too!)

That Universal Feeling of Looming Overwhelm

You know that feeling, right? That task that sits on your to-do list, gathering mental dust, making you sigh every time you think about it. For me, recently, it was assembling a large patio storage box. It seemed straightforward enough, but it quickly became a personal challenge that mirror the very struggles I hear about that many of you navigate Every. Single. Day.

My Battle with the Box: Can you relate?

When I finally decided to tackle this project, I was quickly hit with a wave of overwhelm. The instructions were less of a guide and more of a vague suggestion. The pieces were heavy, awkward, and stubbornly uncooperative. There were moments – more than a few, actually – where I questioned my basic ability to snap two pieces of plastic together. Honestly, there were times I wanted to just throw my hands up, push all the pieces aside, and declare defeat for the day.

But I didn’t. I kept going. Piece by piece, struggle by struggle, I chipped away at it. I muttered, I re-read the cryptic diagrams, and I pushed through the frustration. And when that final piece clicked into place? The rush of pride and accomplishment was immense. I literally did a little happy dance in my backyard, a testament to pushing past what felt impossible. And also entertainment for the neighbors, I’m sure.

More Than Just a Box: A Mirror to Your Life

This experience reminded me of what so many overwhelmed women face daily. You’re juggling demanding careers, the endless needs of children (grown or still at home), and often looking after aging parents. Amidst all of this, taking time to prioritize yourself often feels like just another overwhelming task you can’t quite get to.

Does this sound familiar? You put off that one thing you know would bring you peace or joy, just like I procrastinated on assembling this box. You feel the weight of it all, the immense overwhelm, and that powerful urge to simply give up – or to not even begin.

Breaking Down Overwhelm, One Step at a Time

But what if, just like I did with that patio box, you could learn to break down those larger, overwhelming feelings into manageable, bite-sized steps? What if you could begin to find even small, precious pockets of time and space to breathe, to reset, and to prioritize the magnificent woman YOU are?

My coaching isn’t about adding more to your already overflowing plate. It’s about strategically creating space for what truly lights you up and rejuvenates your spirit. It’s about empowering you to turn those “I wish I could” moments into empowering “I did it!” achievements.

Your First Step to Reclaiming Time and Peace

If you’re ready to start finding those moments, to gently begin creating more time and space so you can finally prioritize yourself without guilt, I’ve created a special resource just for you.

Your impactful first step towards reclaiming your time and inner peace is here: Grab your FREE ‘Self-Care Sanctuary’ Journal! This journal is designed to help you gently uncover where you can create those precious moments for yourself, guiding you toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Ready to start?

It’s time to invest in yourself. You absolutely deserve it!

In love & light,

Coach Wendy's signature

P.S. The Patio Box That Sparked My Insight (and Your Next Project?)

Speaking of those satisfying “I did it!” moments, if you’re looking for a great way to organize your outdoor space and tackle a project that brings a sense of accomplishment, I highly recommend the patio storage box I just assembled! It’s been a game-changer for decluttering my own patio.

If you’d like one for your space, you can find it here on Amazon: Click to check out the Patio Storage Box on Amazon! (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

How to Say No: A Guide for People Pleasers

Do you find that it is easy to prioritize everyone else’s needs over your own? And when you do, do you notice that it leaves you feeling drained and guilty? When is the last time you thought about taking time for yourself? If any of this sounds familiar, chances are you might be a people-pleaser. Not to worry; you’re not alone! And, you can turn things around and lean into taking care of yourself. In this article, we will explore people pleasing and discover how to embrace self-care without feeling guilty. Ready? Let’s go!

The Problem: The Burden of People-Pleasing

People-pleasing is something many of us do, often without even realizing it. We want to make others happy, and that’s a beautiful intention! But when it starts to take a toll on your own happiness, it’s time to take a step back. Here are a few signs you might be a people pleaser:

  • Always Saying Yes: Even when your plate is full, or when you are sick or exhausted you find it hard to say no.
  • Feeling Responsible for Others’ Happiness: You believe it’s your job to make everyone around you feel good.
  • Neglecting Your Own Needs: Your own desires and health often come last.

Can you identify yourself in any of these signs? While being kind and accommodating is wonderful, this habit can lead to burnout and resentment. When you finally think about putting yourself first, that pesky guilt can creep in, making you worry about how others will react.

The Guilt Trap

Feeling guilty about wanting to take care of yourself is very common, especially among people pleasers. This guilt might show up in a couple of different ways:

  • Fear of Disapproval: You might worry that others will judge you for putting yourself first.
  • Internal Conflict: You feel torn between your needs and what others expect from you.
  • Self-Criticism: You might tell yourself you’re being selfish for even considering taking care of your needs.

What ways does guilt show up for you? Can you see how this internal tug-of-war can be exhausting?! Ready for some good news? Prioritizing your well-being is not only okay; it’s essential!

The Importance of Recognizing People-Pleasing

Let’s first take a look at recognizing the signs that you are a people-pleaser. It’s important to recognize your patterns around people-pleasing so that you can take up space & receive without shame or judgement. Recognizing your patterns around people-pleasing is also vital for your mental and emotional health. It allows you to understand the impact it has on your life and relationships. The downfalls of not changing your behavior can include:

  • Burnout: Constantly catering to others can leave you feeling exhausted and depleted.
  • Resentment: Over time, neglecting your own needs can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment towards those you’ve tried to please.
  • Loss of Identity: Focusing solely on others can make you lose sight of your own desires and passions. Until little by little, piece by piece, you lose yourself.

Are you experiencing any of these symptoms? If you are, deciding to take care of yourself is a significant step toward reclaiming your happiness and well-being. It’s about recognizing that your needs matter just as much as anyone else’s.

Embracing Self-Care

When you prioritize self-care, it’s important to remember that not everyone will understand or react positively. In fact, they may even try to sabotage your efforts. Some may feel disappointed or confused when you start putting yourself first. But here’s the thing: So what? Their feelings are not your responsibility. You owe no one an explanation for choosing to care for yourself.

Incorporating relaxation tools into your self-care routine can be incredibly beneficial. For instance, using an aromatherapy diffuser can help create a calming atmosphere in your space. This diffuser not only fills your home with soothing scents but also promotes relaxation and mindfulness. You can check it out here.

By embracing self-care, you’re not only enhancing your own life but also setting a positive example for those around you. Remember, you train those around you how you wish to be treated. And – when you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to support others without feeling drained.

Can you see how prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a fulfilling life? Consider this – what is your next best step towards saying yes to yourself?

In love & light,

What Jennifer Learned When She Burned Out

It was the summer of 2023, and Jennifer was a nervous wreck. Her mother’s health had been deteriorating for years, but she stubbornly refused to take it seriously. Jennifer would constantly nag her to see a doctor, eat better, and take care of herself, but her mother would just brush her off.

Watching her mother’s health decline was taking a massive toll on Jennifer’s own mental and emotional well-being. She was constantly worried, anxious, and stressed, trying to find ways to get her mother to take better care of herself. It felt like Jennifer was fighting a losing battle, and the weight of it all was crushing her.

As her daughter, Jennifer felt a deep sense of responsibility to help her mother, but she wasn’t making it easy. Her mother would get defensive whenever Jennifer brought it up, and it often led to arguments and strained their relationship. Jennifer felt powerless, frustrated, and resentful that her mother wasn’t taking her health more seriously. The harsh reality hit her: “If you don’t deal with your mother, your mother will deal with you.”

It wasn’t until Jennifer experienced burnout that she realized she needed to take a different approach. She had to learn to let go of the control and focus on her own well-being first. Jennifer sought out help, which lead her to me. Through my coaching, Jennifer was able to develop coping strategies and set healthier boundaries with her mother.

Jennifer also realized that she couldn’t force her mother to change; her mother had to make that decision for herself. So, instead of nagging and lecturing, Jennifer started having open and honest conversations with her. She expressed her concerns, and also detached herself from the outcome.

Gradually, Jennifer noticed that she wasn’t ruminating about her mother and the bad decisions she was making.

Can you see the difference it may make for you to take care of yourself first? Can you see how your life would be different if you were to seek out the support you need, set boundaries, and have open and empathetic conversations? You can’t control their actions, but you can control how you respond to them.

Share this to someone who needs to hear this today.

In love & light,

P.S. Are you ready to release the guilt? Click here to download your FREE Download of Journaling Prompts for Peace of Mind

How to Overcome Overwhelming Expectations —And How to Find Your Way to a Balanced Life

Let’s face it, ladies: for many of us juggling the demands of our loved ones, the real struggle is the weight of overwhelming expectations—especially those pesky ones we place on ourselves. Can you relate? Do you ever find yourself in a never-ending cycle of giving, where your own needs are about as prioritized as that gym membership you forgot about? Until suddenly you feel unworthy and then next thing you know, you find yourself teetering on the edge of burnout? By that time, self-care becomes about as elusive as a unicorn.

Why Does It Feel Impossible?

When you’re in survival mode, every day can feel like a high-stakes game of Whac-A-Mole. You’re balancing the emotional needs of your spouse or partner. You may also be caring for aging parents, managing your own family, and somehow trying to keep your professional commitments afloat. It’s like being a circus performer, but without the applause. The absolute feeling of impossibility shows up when you finally decide to prioritize your well-being. In fact do you notice that it often feels like an uphill battle—like trying to climb Mount Everest in flip-flops? (prepare for the face plant) Do you wonder why your self-care plans keep getting derailed or why it feels like an Olympic event to expect even a little reciprocity from those you support?

The Quick Solution: Shift Your Mindset

What if I told you that the first step toward reclaiming your sense of worth and well-being is to shift your mindset? Spoiler alert: your needs are just as valid as everyone else’s. You deserve care, compassion, and a little “me time”—preferably with a side of chocolate.

So how do you shift your mindset so that you can put your needs first? Here’s the cheat sheet:

  1. Set Realistic Expectations: Newsflash: you can’t change how others behave, but you can control your responses. It’s perfectly okay, more than okay, to ask for what you need and to feel a tad miffed when those needs aren’t met. This acknowledgment is your first step towards setting healthier boundaries.
  2. Prioritize Self-Care as Non-Negotiable: Think of self-care as your secret weapon, not a guilty pleasure. Just like you wouldn’t skip a crucial work meeting (unless you’re really good at faking a cough), don’t skip your exercise or downtime. Your sanity depends on it!
  3. Practice Mindfulness: Focus on your own feelings instead of absorbing the stress of those around you like a human sponge. Grounding yourself in the present helps you manage overwhelming emotions and make clearer decisions—like whether to enjoy just a few more minutes of an episode of the Gilmore Girls (spoiler: yes).
  4. Celebrate Small Wins: Celebrate yourself for even the tiniest steps toward self-care. Whether it’s going to bed earlier or stealing a moment to breathe, every little action counts. Go YOU!

Can you see how shifting your focus from the expectations of others to your own needs, creating a more balanced life, is possible? I invite you to embrace your worthiness, let self-care be a priority, and remember: you truly deserve it—preferably with a side of sass! Definitely with a side of sass.

In love & light,

Armoring Yourself in Gratitude: How to Protect Yourself from Burnout

As a busy, professional woman juggling the demands of work, family, and caregiving, I know it’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed and stretched thin. Between the pressure to perform at your job, the needs of aging parents or a sick child, and the constant pull to be everything to everyone, do you find yourself exhausted, frustrated, and questioning your own self-worth?

What if I told you there’s a way to fortify yourself against the relentless onslaught of obligations and responsibilities? Would you want to know more about that? Well, here’s what I know for sure…… the antidote to burnout lies in cultivating a deep sense of appreciation.

Gratitude as a Protective Shield
Just as a knight’s armor shielded them from the blows of battle, gratitude can serve as a buffer against the stress and negativity that threatens to consume you. When you make a conscious effort to focus on what you’re thankful for, it shifts your perspective and helps you recognize the blessings in your life, even amidst the chaos.

This is especially important as you struggle with feelings of unworthiness or the pressure to be “selfless” at the expense of your own well-being. By donning the armor of gratitude, you give yourself permission to prioritize self-care without the guilt. After all, how can you pour from an empty cup?

Cultivating a Gratitude Practice
Building a gratitude practice doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as taking a few moments each day to jot down three things you’re grateful for, whether it’s the smell of freshly brewed coffee, the laughter of a loved one, or the beautiful sunset you witnessed on your commute home.

For a more structured approach, I invite you to check out my Self-Care Sanctuary Journal. This 30-day journaling program offers daily prompts and reflections to help you cultivate a deep sense of appreciation and inner peace, even in the midst of life’s challenges.

By donning the armor of gratitude, you’ll not only protect yourself from burnout but also create the mental space and clarity to tackle your to-do list with renewed energy and focus. So, the next time you feel the weight of the world pressing down on you, remember to reach for your gratitude shield and let it fortify you for the journey ahead.

In love & light,

Are you going a million miles an hour? Here’s how to make space for YOU! 

In today’s fast-paced world, it often feels like we’re racing against the clock. With endless to-do lists, work commitments, social obligations, and the constant buzz of notifications, it’s easy to forget about the most important person in our lives: ourselves. If you’ve been going a million miles an hour, it might be time to hit the brakes and carve out some much-needed “me time.”

The Importance of Me Time

Taking time for yourself isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. When we neglect our own needs, stress can accumulate, leading to burnout and fatigue. Making space for relaxation allows us to recharge, refocus, and reconnect with ourselves. It’s essential for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Creating A Relaxation Ritual

Finding time to relax doesn’t have to be complicated. Today, I’m going to share with you one simple way to guarantee that you enjoy relaxation in your day.

Ready?

Commit to doing one ritual a day – and do it badly. In other words, it does not have to be perfect. Just do it.

I’ll use myself as an example. I first learned of these two items from a client of mine who has gorgeous skin and zero wrinkles at 60!

I asked her secret and she said she used these two items daily: A face roller and a gua sha.

I’d seen face rollers but had no idea what a gua sha was. So I did some research, found a set in rose quartz and ordered. I found this set below on Amazon and you can click the link here if you are interested. (As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission if you use my links. This comes at no extra cost to you and I so appreciate you.)

I had to watch a YouTube video to figure out how to use them. When I used them for the first time, I noticed that I felt calm and loved.

Then I got busy and this ritual fell by the wayside. Can you relate? Has that ever happened to you?

I noticed that I was giving myself grief for not using my face roller or gua sha. What good was that doing me? None whatsoever.

So I decided to give myself grace and just jump in and do it. If I just use the roller, great. If I use both the roller and the gua sha, that is awesome. I let go of my idea of having to do it perfectly.

If I don’t do all of the ‘rolls’ that the YouTube video I watched walks you through, that’s perfectly fine.

Embracing Relaxation Tools

What type of self-care rituals would you like to indulge in? Get curious about this.

Shifting Toward Calm

I noticed something when I used my face roller and gua sha. It gave me a sense of calm. Could it be the rose quartz? Possibly. Could it be that I allowed myself to slow down? It is very possible.

What do you think you might notice when you slow down?

You Are Deserving & Worthy

Life can be overwhelming, but taking time for yourself is essential for maintaining balance. Remember, you deserve it! So go ahead, slow down, and embrace the beauty of “me time.”

Let me know in the comments, what self-care ritual or tool will you indulge in?

In love & light,

Feeling Overwhelmed as a Sandwich Generation Caregiver? 4 Key Ways to Manage Expectations of Others!

Today, I want to address a significant pain point for many women in the sandwich generation: managing expectations of others.

Recently, I received an email from a woman who posed this question: Is it fair to expect to be treated the way I treat others?

As someone who balances caring for kids and aging loved ones, this woman pours her time, energy, and support into those she cares about because she genuinely cares. Yet, she often feels like the world just takes and takes without giving anything back. Can you relate?

She also questioned, If I ask for something—whether it’s help, understanding, or just a little kindness—do I have a right to feel upset if that request is ignored?

It’s completely natural to feel that way. We all want our needs acknowledged.

Her next concern was, Should I stop giving to those who don’t reciprocate what I give? On one hand, she wants to be generous and kind—that’s part of her identity. On the other hand, it feels draining when her efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated. Does this sound familiar?

She expressed a desire to remain true to herself but also doesn’t want to feel taken advantage of. So, how do we find that balance?

Here are a few strategies to consider:

  1. Communicate Clearly: If you have a need, express it. Sometimes people don’t realize what we want or need until we say it. We teach others how we wish to be treated—and sometimes we need to retrain them.
  2. Set Healthy Boundaries: It’s okay to protect your energy. If someone consistently takes but never gives, it might be time to reassess that relationship.
  3. Practice Self-Compassion: It’s okay to feel upset. Acknowledge your feelings and give yourself grace.
  4. Focus on What You Can Control: You can’t change others, but you can change how you respond.

I believe in kindness and generosity, but it’s equally essential to take care of ourselves, especially as caregivers. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone.

To help you navigate these challenges, I’ve created a journal filled with prompts for peace of mind. If you’d like to explore these topics further and find some clarity, visit coach-wendy.com/journal to download your copy!

Thank you for reading! How do you manage your expectations of others? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

Take care, and see you in the next post!

In love & light,

3 Strategies for Women in the Sandwich Generation to Thrive

As a woman in the sandwich generation, I know firsthand the challenges of balancing the needs of aging loved ones with my own personal and professional responsibilities. It can feel like a never-ending juggling act, leaving us exhausted and overwhelmed. But what if I told you that with the right mindset and strategies, you can bridge the gap from struggling to thriving?

One of the most common obstacles we face is the belief that “if I bring someone in to help, I have failed my loved one.” This sentiment is rooted in our deep desire to be the sole caregiver, but it can also lead to burnout, physical and emotional exhaustion. I remember feeling this way when my mother was diagnosed with dementia. I was determined to be the one to care for her, even though it was slowly consuming me. It wasn’t until I finally reached out for help that I realized asking for assistance was not a sign of failure, but an act of self-care that benefited both my mother and myself.

The path to a thriving life begins with building a team of support and utilizing available resources. By delegating tasks and responsibilities, we can alleviate the burden and find more time and energy to focus on our own health and personal goals.

Here are three easy tips to help you transition from struggling to thriving:

Prioritize Self-Care

After years of putting my own needs last, I finally made the decision to incorporate holistic practices like mindfulness, and guided meditations into my daily routine. The transformation was remarkable – I found myself feeling calmer, more present, and better able to savor the precious moments with my mother. By making self-care a priority, I was able to approach my caregiving responsibilities with more patience, empathy, and joy.

Develop a Clear Strategy

With the support of a caring coach, I was able to create a detailed plan that balanced my caregiving duties with my personal and professional commitments. This helped me feel more in control and less overwhelmed by the constant demands on my time and energy. By setting clear boundaries and expectations, I was able to be more intentional about how I spent my days, ensuring I had the time and space to recharge and pursue my own interests.

Build a Supportive Network

Surrounding myself with a network of family, friends, and professional resources has been a game-changer. Whether it’s a trusted friend who lends a listening ear or a medical professional who helps with my mother’s care, I’ve learned to lean on this network when I need a helping hand. The emotional, practical, and logistical support I’ve received has been invaluable in helping me maintain a sense of balance and well-being.

By implementing these strategies, I’ve been able to reclaim a sense of control and find the peace of mind I so desperately sought. The journey from challenges to a thriving life is not an easy one, but it is a transformative process that has led me to a more joyful and purposeful existence.

Click here to Embrace Your Worthiness with the Self-Care Sanctuary Journal.

Peace of mind 🌺 Let go of worry 🌺 Care for yourself

Click here to get your [FREE DOWNLOAD] of 30 days of Journaling Prompts for Peace of Mind so that you can embrace your worthiness and release all guilt, let go of worry, find balance, be present and live each day with gratitude and purpose knowing that you are worthy, you are enough and choose to thrive.

In love & light,

🩷 Self-Care Tips for the Sandwich Generation This Valentine’s Day 🩷

As we approach Valentine’s Day, many of us are focused on showering our loved ones with affection and appreciation. What about showing that same level of care and compassion to yourself?


For women in the sandwich generation, caring for our families, friends, and communities, it can often feel like our own needs come last. We’re constantly juggling a million responsibilities, trying to be patient, caring, and present for everyone who relies on us.

Can you relate?


In the midst of all that giving, it’s so important that we also find ways to care for ourselves. Because when we’re depleted, it becomes exponentially harder to show up as our best selves not only for ourselves but also for the people we love.


This Valentine’s Day, I invite you to give yourself the gift of a pause, time to reflect, and space to replenish your well.  Carving out just a few minutes each day to write, doodle, or simply be present, you’ll start to feel a profound sense of peace and grounding.


No more getting lost in the dark holes of unrealistic expectations or feelings of unworthiness.

What if I told you that there was an easy to use gadget to guide you towards self-compassion, gratitude, and the simple joy of honoring your own needs?  Would you want to know more?


As one of my clients shared, “I did get a chance to let some emotions out. I am grateful.” That’s the power of creating a consistent self-care practice – it gives you the space to process your feelings, instead of constantly pushing them down.


When you invest in yourself, you’re making an investment in your own well being. You’re saying “yes” to finding ways to stay grounded, even in the midst of chaos. And you’re giving yourself the gift of that elusive but oh-so-important feeling: peace of mind.


So this Valentine’s Day, show yourself some extra love and care. Head over to Amazon and grab that easy to use gadget –  your Self-Care Sanctuary Journal today. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you.


Click here to claim your Self-Care Sanctuary Journal – so that you can enjoy having peace of mind –  on Amazon

In love & light,

P.S. Book your Guided Discovery Session here so that you are treating yourself well while taking care of them