Author: Carol Williams

Learn how to overcome obstacles that keep you from moving forward on your most important goals.

The phrase “Just do it” may work for Nike, but in reality, pushing through resistance isn’t always that simple. If it were, we’d all be effortlessly tackling our to-do lists, making progress on our big goals, and never struggling with procrastination.

Yet, time and time again, I hear from clients who know what they need to do but can’t seem to get it done. They tell themselves to “just do it,” but then they don’t—and they end up frustrated, stuck, and even doubting themselves. Sound familiar?

Let’s break down why taking action can feel so hard, what’s actually happening when we get stuck, and how you can move forward in a way that actually works.

Why you’re not taking action (it’s not laziness!)

I recently had a coaching session with a client who hadn’t completed the tasks she had committed to during our last meeting. When I asked her what happened, her first response was, “I don’t know. I just didn’t do it. I guess I’m just lazy.”

But here’s the thing—laziness is almost never the real reason. After some reflection, she realized she had been overwhelmed by the complexity of the tech, PLUS she had not been eating to her best advantage (nutrition.) The technical aspects felt daunting, as that is not her strong suit…and she was feeling less than her usual chipper self. So she avoided the commitments altogether.

This is what happens to so many of us. When a task feels too big, too complicated, or too uncomfortable, our brains go into avoidance mode. And no amount of “just do it” will override that.

Instead, we need a new approach—one that doesn’t rely on willpower alone.

The three key ingredients for getting things done

If you’re feeling stuck, it’s time to shift your approach. The secret to making progress isn’t forcing yourself through resistance—it’s working with your brain’s natural tendencies. 

So, if you have a busy and creative brain…here are three elements that help you move forward:

1. Motivation** – Instead of waiting for motivation to strike, create it. Take a small step—any step—and let momentum build. The act of starting often sparks motivation, rather than the other way around. THIS IS A MOTIVATION BABYSTEP.
2. Challenge – Your brain thrives on challenges, but they need to be the right size. If something feels too overwhelming, break it down into smaller, more manageable pieces.
3. Novelty – Introducing something new or exciting can make a task more appealing. A change in location, a different approach, or even a small reward can make all the difference.

**See also number one below!

What to do when you’re stuck

Now that you know the three key ingredients, what do you do if you still feel stuck? Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you move forward:

1. Identify What’s De-Motivating You
   Instead of beating yourself up, get curious. What’s making this task feel hard? Is it too big? Too boring? Too unclear? Understanding the block is the first step to removing it. (AKA WHY can’t I even do a “little” motivation babystep?)
   
2. Remind Yourself That You’re Capable and Fierce
   Negative self-talk only makes things harder. Instead of focusing on past failures, remind yourself of what you have accomplished AND WHO YOU REALLY ARE! You’re capable and fierce. You can do hard things. You just need the right strategy.
   
3. Take the Smallest Possible Step AND have an accountability person…
   If a task feels overwhelming, shrink it down. Want to write a book? Open a blank document and type your name. THEN give yourself Full Permission to Stop! Chances are…you may not stop! Want to exercise even in the freezing cold? Make a gym date with a buddy! These tiny steps create momentum, and before you know it, you’re in motion.
   

Get unstuck TOGETHER

If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I know what I should do, but I’m not doing it,” you’re not alone. And you’re not broken. You just need the right tools to break through the resistance.

This is exactly what we’ll be diving into at the next The Overachievers Club session on March 3rd! We’ll talk about why we procrastinate, how to recognize what’s holding us back, and how to finally make progress—without burnout or self-blame.

This week in my PRIVATE paid cohort (Overachievers is totally free), the participants really sang the praises of the support they got in the group.

If you’re ready to stop overthinking and start doing, join us! I can’t wait to see you there.

Onward and upward,

Carol

How Embracing Boredom Can Unlock Your Creativity

What if someone asked, “Are you busy?” and you could confidently say, “No.” In a world where busyness is often equated with success, we forget that being perpetually busy can rob us of time, health, and creativity. It’s time to redefine what it means to live a productive, meaningful life—without the stress of being “busy.”

The Myth of Busyness Equals Success
We live in a culture where “busy” is seen as a badge of honor. People assume that being busy means you’re successful or achieving your goals. But more often, being busy means you’re overwhelmed, overcommitted, and disconnected from your true priorities.

Busyness limits your ability to think, create, and focus on what truly matters. It leads to health issues, burnout, and a perpetual chase for external validation. Instead of asking, “How much can I do?” ask, “Am I doing what’s truly important to me?”

The Courage to Be Unbusy
Learning to embrace boredom and unbusyness can be uncomfortable, especially when it requires sitting with your thoughts or facing your inner fears. However, these quiet moments are essential for creativity, clarity, and alignment with your values.

Think of unbusyness as freedom—the freedom to choose, reflect, and take meaningful action. Being unbusy allows you to focus on your great work in the world.

A Client’s Transformation: From Busy to Breathing
One of my clients recently shared a powerful realization: “I’ve finally given myself permission to breathe, for the first time in my entire life.” She had spent decades giving her time and energy to everyone else, but through coaching, she discovered the power of slowing down and focusing on her purpose.

By stepping away from constant busyness, she created space to dream, plan, and execute her great work. Her life became not only more productive but also more joyful and abundant.

Your One Un-busy Life
If you’ve been laid off, hit a major life transition, or feel overwhelmed by your commitments, now is the perfect time to pause and ask: What will I do with my one un-busy life?

Un-busyness is not about doing nothing—it’s about doing the right things. It’s about focusing on your great work while maintaining your health, relationships, and peace of mind.

Next Steps:
If you’re ready to break free from the busyness trap and focus on what truly matters, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to create a plan that allows you to live abundantly, make an impact, and feel fulfilled—without the chaos.

Shake up your routine, add some fun, and refocus on short-term wins to push past the midwinter blues

Breaking Through the February Slump: Embrace Imbolc

Before we dive into the tips…be sure to join me tomorrow for IMBOLC! We will be celebrating midwinter at The Overachievers Club so be sure to join us!

As the snow falls outside in a scene straight out of a Courier and Ives postcard, I’m here to talk about something many of us face this time of year—the February slump.

If you’re not familiar with the term, here’s the gist: January is long, cold, and dark. For many of us, it starts with relief that the holidays are over and excitement for fresh starts—new resolutions, intentions, and plans. But as the month drags on, the excitement can fizzle out. And once February rolls around, it often feels like we’re stuck in a season that’s too far from spring and summer to feel hopeful, but no longer fresh or exciting.

Whether you call it the January slump, the February slump, or even the March slump, this is the time of year where many of us feel like we’ve hit a wall. But don’t worry—I’ve got three tips to help you shake things up, regain momentum, and bring joy back into your daily life.

1. Shake Things Up

Monotony can feed the slump, so break out of your routines. This doesn’t have to be complicated—try doing your morning routine in a different order, taking a new walking route, or changing up how you approach a familiar task. Simple shifts can re-energize your day and make even mundane activities feel a little fresher.

2. Make It Fun

When was the last time you did something purely for the joy of it? One way to bust out of a slump is to find ways to make even your responsibilities feel fun. For example, one of my clients and I decided to turn her work goals into a 30-day sprint. By adding an element of challenge and excitement, she’s staying motivated and looking forward to every day. Find something that makes your tasks feel playful or rewarding, whether it’s music, competition, or creativity.

3. Decrease Your Time Horizon

Sometimes, our goals can feel overwhelming simply because they’re too big or too far away. Instead of focusing on what you want to achieve over the next six months or year, narrow it down. What do you want to accomplish in the next couple of weeks? When you focus on a shorter time frame, it’s easier to stay motivated and feel accomplished.

The February slump doesn’t have to define this season. With a few small shifts in perspective and action, you can turn this time of year into one of renewed energy and purpose.

I invite you to join me for The Overachievers Club. We meet on the first Monday of every month to reconnect with our bold, badass selves and stay focused on what truly matters. And this month is special—it’s the eighth anniversary of this incredible group! Whether you’re new or returning, I’d love to see you there. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s a space for you to refuel and reignite your passion.

Not a member yet? It’s easy to sign up—just click here. Let’s tackle the slump together and make this your year of bold accomplishments.

Elevate your impact & protect your energy

Balancing Your Mission with Your Life: A Story of One Massachusetts Business Owner

Do you feel a deep calling to make an impact in the world? To do something bigger—something that creates real change? If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone.

At the recent Massachusetts Conference for Women, I met an incredible woman juggling multiple roles—business owner, spouse, mother, and activist. Her biggest challenge? Figuring out how to elevate her mission while still taking care of herself, her family, and her relationships. Sound familiar?

Many of us who care deeply about our work tend to put others first, often at the expense of our own well-being. But here’s the truth: staying small and overextending yourself doesn’t serve anyone.

The Struggle to Balance “Purpose and Life”

When you’re passionate about making an impact, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget to check in with yourself. You know you love people, and perhaps, like my conference friend, you find yourself slipping into people-pleasing tendencies—saying yes a little too often, and realizing later that you’ve stretched yourself too thin.

That’s where The Overachievers Club comes in. This isn’t just another “free” group—it’s a space designed to help you balance your ambitions with self-care and create a life that truly works for you.

Eight Years of Community and Growth

Believe it or not, this journey started back in 2017 as Lunchtime Love, then evolved into Wisdom Warriors, and now stands proudly as The Overachievers Club. For eight years, I’ve been bringing together passionate, driven individuals who want to make a difference—without burning out in the process.

If you’re feeling the weight of your responsibilities and the shifting changes in the world, now is the time to pause and reflect. The Overachievers Club offers a supportive community where you can do just that.

Your Time to Make an Impact

Whether you’re just starting out or have been on your mission for years, I invite you to take the next step. If the idea of attending a group doesn’t quite fit your needs, let’s talk one-on-one. Whatever feels right for you, don’t wait. The world needs your impact—right now.

If you want to clear out the clutter of your home, your schedule, and off your body, so that you can ignite the flame of your passion without burning out, I’d love to have you join The Overachievers Club on the first Monday of February. If you’re interested in learning more, let’s connect. Just hit reply to this email and we will talk!

See you soon—your mission is waiting.

It begins with a decision. Listen to Ann! 30 seconds

Feeling stuck by uncertainty?

Discover how to reignite your passion and take bold steps forward—regardless of external changes.

In times of change, it’s easy to feel stuck. With a new presidential term on the horizon, many professionals are hesitant to make bold moves, waiting to “see how things play out.” But here’s the truth: waiting serves no one—not you, not your mission, and certainly not the world.

This isn’t about politics; it’s about purpose. When uncertainty rises, so does the need for leaders who are willing to step up and ignite change. The world is divided, and it needs passionate, purpose-driven people to rise and make a difference. That’s why now, more than ever, it’s time to light your internal fire and take meaningful action.

Waiting Won’t Get You Closer to Your “Goals” (read: Big Mission!)

I understand the instinct to pause. I’ve been there too. In times of uncertainty—like the last election or during the pandemic—it’s natural to feel inertia creeping in. But here’s what I’ve learned: the best way to fight inertia is through action.

The women I met at the Massachusetts Women’s Conference, surrounded by powerhouse speakers like Oprah, reminded me of this. These women had big goals, yet many struggled to recognize when they were stuck. Some were waiting for the “right time” to pursue their dreams, letting fear and doubt keep them small.

One woman planned to delay her dream for ten years because of self-doubt. Another realized her job no longer served her, and it was time to plan an exit strategy. These conversations were powerful reminders that clarity comes when we confront what’s holding us back and take action anyway.

Burn Away Fear and Fuel Your Mission

One of my favorite tools for reflection is drawing inspiration from symbolism. I recently pulled a card featuring a woman drumming with fire blazing from her drum. That fire symbolizes our inner passion—the force that drives us forward when we let it.

But here’s the thing: before you can ignite that fire, you must burn away the fear and self-doubt holding you back. Whether it’s fear of failure, judgment, or not being “ready,” these thoughts are like wet logs that prevent your fire from burning brightly.

I often ask myself, “If I were fearless, what would I do right now?” Imagine what would happen if you stopped waiting for the perfect moment and took bold action today.

The World Needs Your Creativity and Leadership

This isn’t the time to shrink back. The world is full of division and uncertainty, but creativity and leadership have the power to heal and unite. Staying small doesn’t serve anyone—not you, not your community, and not the people who need to hear your message.

That’s why I created the Discern Program, which starts Tuesday… January 21st. This 8-week experience is designed to help you dig deep, ignite your inner fire, and take clear, decisive action toward your biggest goals. You will know deeply WHY you are doing what you are doing AND you will connect this “why” to something of interest, compelling to your Busy Brain 🙂

If a “full program” feels overwhelming, I offer smaller, bite-sized ways to get started. No matter where you are, I’m here to support you in stepping into your most powerful, fearless self.

So, let me ask you:
🔥 What is in you that needs to be unleashed?
🔥 What would you do if fear wasn’t holding you back?

The time to act is now. Let’s ignite your fire and make 2025 your most impactful year yet.

p.s. You don’t have to take my word for it, here’s what Audrey says about Discern

Learn how to align your goals with your mission and create sustainable success in the new year

Ignite Your Fire: Harness Your Passion and Burn Away What Holds You Back

Last week, I had the incredible honor of being a vendor at the Massachusetts Women’s Conference, where 11,000 powerhouse women gathered, featuring awe-inspiring speakers, including Oprah Winfrey herself. It was an unforgettable experience to connect with so many driven women who are setting the world on fire with their ambitions.

One of the key visuals at my booth was a fire. While it wasn’t a real flame—indoor events and safety rules don’t mix—it represented something deeply symbolic. This fire symbolized burning away what no longer serves us and igniting the passions and dreams that fuel our purpose. As Oprah asked during her keynote, “What have I come to this planet to offer?” That question lingered in the minds of many attendees, yet I noticed something surprising—a lot of these brilliant women didn’t take the next step of answering it for themselves.

Beyond Goals: Recognizing Where You Are

Here’s the thing: Many of us are go-getters. We know our goals. We’ve set them, written them down, and maybe even created vision boards. But in the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose sight of where we are in the process. Are we on track? Are we still pursuing what truly matters, or have we veered off course?

At the conference, I met several women who experienced lightbulb moments. One woman realized that her current job wasn’t aligned with her long-term goals, so she’s now crafting an exit strategy. Another had been putting off her dream for ten years, convinced she needed more experience. That hesitation, driven by the voices in her head keeping her “safe,” was holding her back from fully stepping into her greatness. Recognizing these barriers is the first step to moving forward.

Disrupting Your Thinking: Why Your Fire Matters

So often, the voices in our heads keep us small. They tell us to wait, to play it safe, to not rock the boat. But when you step into your amazingness, something extraordinary happens. You harness your fire, that burning desire within, and direct it with purpose.

This isn’t just about setting goals. It’s about going deeper—excavating what’s truly holding you back and asking yourself the tough questions. For example, one of my favorite exercises is a tongue-in-cheek twist: “How could I really mess up next year?” Writing down all the ways things could go wrong highlights exactly what you need to avoid and how to set yourself up for success.

Moving Beyond SMART Goals

SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—are valuable tools. But before you even get to setting those goals, you need to address the bigger picture:

• What lights your fire?
• Where are you burning out?
• What do you need to let go of?
• Where do you want to focus your energy?

When you align your long-term vision with your actions, everything changes. This isn’t about a single year—it’s about creating a roadmap for the next three years, the next decade, and beyond.

Join Me to Ignite Your Fire

On January 13th, I’m hosting a transformative two-hour workshop designed to help you go beyond traditional goal-setting. This isn’t just about creating another list of tasks; it’s about understanding your mission and creating a clear, actionable path forward. With a workbook, guided exercises, and deep reflection, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back and how to reignite your passion.

Seats are limited, and as of now, there are only five left. If you’re ready to harness your fire and step into your greatness, this is your chance. Let’s create a plan to light up your life and make an impact.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to stop playing small, let me know what fire you want to ignite and what you’re ready to burn away. Comment on the post, or email me.  Let’s make 2025 the year you step into your amazingness.

I can’t wait to see you at the workshop or connect with you soon!

“This is a quick note to say thank you. It took a lot of hard work on my part and I know your guidance was really crucial as I rebuilt my focus and got my career back on track again. At this point I am finishing up a two year grant with the National Park Service, was awarded Citizen Planner of the Year 2024 for Northern New England, and am about to start a new job in January for UNH Extension as “Extension Field Specialist, Community & Economic Development, Merrimack County.

Your workshops were always tremendously fun and really helpful in rediscovering myself and my passions.“