Podcast: Play in new window
What is holding you back from moving forward in your life? When parts of your story don’t pan out the way you hoped or planned, it can leave you feeling stuck, but what you do next makes all the difference.
If you’re ready to go from grieving the life you wanted to building a life you love, then this episode is for you.
Author and podcast host Annie F. Downs sat down with me to chat about her latest book, “Don’t Let That Hold You Back,” and her journey of singleness, dating, and grief. Even though these topics can feel heavy, the “queen of fun” has a way of making space for both sorrow and hope that is so relatable and encouraging. Her transparency is refreshing and helpful for anyone struggling to accept their situation. If you’re grieving the loss of a dream, I know this one will resonate with you in the most comforting way.
Annie is the very first guest to join me at my kitchen table, a natural place of connection and community in my life. It makes so much sense that we would connect in this way. Over the years, through our podcasts, we’ve both been able to share so many heartfelt stories of people navigating life just like you.
The truth is, no one is exempt from hard times. Setbacks will surely come, but it’s the will to keep going that makes it possible to still live a life you love, even if it’s packaged differently than you originally expected.
Maybe you can experience an alternate version of your dreams…
- Maybe you’ll find love later in life
- Maybe you’ll start your own business instead of locking in your next job
- Maybe you’ll experience motherhood through adoption or showing up for the children in your life that need someone in their corner
- Maybe you’ll have the courage to initiate a conversation that will lead to a beautiful friendship
I know that none of this is to be taken lightly. Acceptance of unfulfilled dreams takes time and support from others who can encourage you when you feel defeated. Give yourself the room to process your feelings and look for other women who can encourage you along the way. And remember that this moment in time isn’t the end of your story. As you reflect on what could have been, you can begin to realize a different version of your dream.
My friend, I want you to know that you’re not alone, even if it seems that everyone else is living the dream you long for. I can guarantee you that life brings highs and lows for us all. Don’t allow what hasn’t happened to hold you back from moving forward in your life.
So live with expectancy, knowing that God can transform your pain into purpose, even if you can’t see it yet. Your best days may be closer than you think. Keep going.
Highlights from Today’s Episode
- Grieving Unfulfilled Dreams
- Finding Good Friends
- Advocating For Yourself
Related Resources
- Connect with Annie F. Downs on Instagram, X, or Facebook.
- Grab a copy of Annie’s book: Don’t Let That Hold You Back: A Bold Guide to Finding the Life You’re Longing For.
- Hear more from Annie on That Sounds Fun Podcast.
- Stay connected with Annie by visiting her website.
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Other Stuff to Check Out
- Check out this podcast episode that takes a closer look at delayed dreams.
- Make the most of your days with The Full Circle Planner!
- You don’t have to do life alone. Join the Inner Circle community today!
- Be sure to also check out my books She’s Still There and 100 Days to Discovering the Gift of You!
Let’s Talk!
- What roadblocks are standing in the way of you fully living your life?
- Have you given up on making friends? What is one step you can take to connect with a potential friend rather than waiting for them to come to you?
- Is there a dream in your heart that you can’t let go of? What other options are available to you to realize your dream in a different way?
Connect with me…
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How to Listen to The Podcast
If you’re new to podcasts, think of them like little radio shows that you can listen to at your convenience. They are perfect to listen to and learn from as you workout, fold laundry, wash dishes or conquer the world.
1. Listen right here on the blog. Click the little play button at the beginning of this post.
2. Listen on iTunes or Stitcher or Google Play! – Be sure and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Also, if you would be so kind as to leave a rating on iTunes and/or write a 2-3 sentence review there or on Stitcher? Your commentary or rating helps make the podcast more “findable” by others who might not know it exists!
3. Share today’s show – Email the link to a friend or share on social media. Just click on the sharing buttons at the bottom of this post!
You have been so great to join me on the journey here on the blog, I hope you jump right in and do the same on the podcast!
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