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Lindsey Morano 10/23/25 Lindsey Morano 10/23/25

If You're Not in the Arena... I'm Not Listening

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Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

When to Listen to Feedback
(And when to kindly say “Thanks, but no thanks”)

There’s a quote from Brené Brown that’s stuck with me ever since I first heard it:

“If you're not in the arena getting your ass kicked, I'm not interested in your feedback.”

Now, let’s be clear, Brené’s not saying feedback doesn’t matter. It absolutely does.

Feedback can help us grow. It can offer us insight, perspective, a new way to think about an old challenge. Sometimes it even opens the door to real, lasting change.

But… not all feedback is created equal.

And if you’ve ever put yourself out there, started a business, launched a program, led a team, become a parent, spoken up in a meeting, you know what I’m talking about. There’s always someone with a lot to say.

The Trouble with Feedback

Here’s the tricky part: Feedback often comes from people who aren’t in it with you.

They haven’t taken the risk. They don’t know the details. They’re not juggling all the same factors and feelings you are.

Maybe they mean well. Maybe they don’t.

But either way, if they’re not in the ring with you, if they don’t understand the pressure, the stakes, or the energy it takes to show up, it might not be the feedback you need to hear.

My Personal Filter

Here’s something I ask myself when someone offers advice or criticism:

Would they take their own feedback? Do they understand what it would actually take to do what they’re suggesting? Are they offering this from a place of care… or control?

If the answer is no, I’ve learned to take a breath, say thank you (or not), and move along.

Because honestly? The best feedback comes from people who get it. People who’ve wrestled with hard choices. People who’ve taken risks of their own. People who know what being in the arena feels like.

That kind of feedback, well, I’ll take it every time.

Getting Started

A Few Questions to Keep in Your Back Pocket

The next time someone offers you advice (especially if it stings), try asking:

Does this person understand what I’m trying to do?
Are they invested in my growth, or just offering a hot take?
Would I go to them for guidance if I was struggling?

If not, it’s okay to let it go.

You don’t have to carry every opinion. You don’t have to internalize every comment. And you don’t owe everyone an explanation.

Feedback That Does Matter

On the flip side, don’t forget: the right feedback can be magic.

It can stretch you. Encourage you. Help you move forward.

So seek out the people you trust, the ones who’ve shown they’re in the ring with you. Who understand your values and your goals. Who care more about your growth than being right.

And when they speak? Listen closely.

Because that’s the kind of feedback that makes you better.

Ready to Get Started?

If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.

I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.

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Lindsey Morano 10/16/25 Lindsey Morano 10/16/25

Regulated, Not Calm

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Regulated, Not Calm (What Robyn Gobbel taught me about stress, survival brains, and showing up anyway.)

We’ve been reading Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors by Robyn Gobbel, and let me tell you: I keep coming back to it. Not just for parenting, but for life.

One concept that’s really stuck with me lately is this idea: Regulated ≠ Calm.

It sounds so simple. But wow, has it shifted something for me.

Can You Be a Little Stressed… and Still Be Okay?

You might remember from last week’s post, we talked about the Owl Brain.

When we’re regulated, present, and thoughtful, we’re operating from our Owl Brain (the part of our brain that’s great at planning, problem-solving, and perspective). But when we get dysregulated, our owl flies away. And suddenly we’re in Watchdog Brain (fight/flight) or Possum Brain (freeze/shutdown).

So here’s the question I found myself wrestling with:

If my heart rate is up… If I’m feeling nervous before a presentation… If I’m overwhelmed by a to-do list…

Does that mean my owl has flown away?

Turns Out: Not Necessarily

Robyn Gobbel explains that you can be stressed and still regulated. You don’t have to be totally calm, zen, and peaceful to have access to your thinking brain.

You just have to be inside your window of tolerance, that sweet spot where you’re alert but not reactive, engaged but not overwhelmed.

In fact, some stress is totally normal. Helpful, even. You can feel nervous, excited, uncertain, even a little uncomfortable… and still be grounded enough to make decisions, show up, and do hard things.

That’s the power of regulated, not calm.

Getting Started

How This Shows Up in Coaching

This concept has helped me reframe how I support my clients, especially when they’re facing big, scary, or overwhelming projects.

Because yes, those tasks may bring up stress. But that doesn’t mean they’ve lost access to their owl brain. It just means we might need to support regulation while keeping momentum.

Here’s what that looks like:

Breaking projects down into smaller, doable steps instead of trying to leap into the deep end.
Getting training or guidance before diving into something new so it feels less intimidating.
Using resources and support, like office hours or coaching sessions, instead of spiraling alone in a dimly lit bedroom (yes, that’s a real image from one of my college clients, and yes, we made a plan).

We don’t need everything to feel easy. We don’t need every task to feel light. We just need to stay inside the zone where we can keep going.

The Real-Life Test: Traffic

Here’s how I’ve started thinking about it:

Let’s say someone cuts you off in traffic.

Do you fly off the handle, scream, and swerve into danger? Or do you beep, slow down, and keep yourself (and everyone else) safe?

That’s regulated, not calm.

You didn’t meditate your way through it. You didn’t smile and say, “No big deal!” You responded. You stayed present. You made choices.

That’s what we’re aiming for, at work, at home, and especially when things are hard.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 10/9/25 Lindsey Morano 10/9/25

Are You in Your Owl Brain?

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Are You in Your Owl Brain? (And what to do when your owl takes off)

We’ve been reading Robyn Gobbel’s Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors in our house lately, and I’ve gotta say, it’s been a game changer.

One of the most helpful concepts in the book is this idea of the “Owl Brain.” In Robyn’s words, when you’re regulated, thinking clearly, making decisions, and engaging with the world, you’re in your Owl Brain.

But when things start to feel overwhelming, your owl flies away. And suddenly, you’re in your Watchdog Brain (ready to fight or defend), or your Possum Brain (shut down, withdrawn, frozen). These parts of your brain aren't "bad", they're protective. They’re just not where you do your best thinking.

At home, this visual has helped us make sense of big feelings and tricky behaviors. But, maybe not surprisingly, it’s also followed me straight into my work with clients.

Is Your Owl Still in the Room?

When I’m coaching a student, a business owner, or a client working through executive function challenges, I find myself asking (silently, of course):

Is their owl brain still here? Or has it flown off for a bit?

Because the truth is, when something is hard, really hard, our brains go into protection mode. Even if it’s “just” a spreadsheet. Or a reading assignment. Or a pile of receipts.

It’s not about laziness. Or lack of motivation. It’s about regulation.

You can’t plan, problem-solve, or prioritize from your possum brain. You can’t shift your mindset, make good decisions, or feel hopeful when your owl’s in the wind.

Getting Started

Helping the Owl Come Back

The beauty of being a coach is that I get to support the whole person, not just the to-do list.

So if someone’s struggling to make progress, the first step isn’t always pushing harder, it’s noticing what might be making the owl fly away.

Sometimes, it’s emotional stuff. Life stuff. Stress, grief, sleep deprivation, or simply feeling overwhelmed. And in those moments, my role might be just to listen. Other times, we talk about adding support—a therapist, a trusted friend, a better system, more rest.

And sometimes, it’s a skill or task-specific challenge.

If a student is struggling in calculus, and the professor’s explanations just aren’t clicking, it might be time for a tutor.
If a client dreads invoicing every month and it’s always late, maybe a bookkeeper is the right next step.

Because we don’t have to be great at everything. And some tasks, especially the ones that cause stress or shame, might always send our owl packing.

In those moments, it’s not a failure to get help. It’s smart. It’s protective. It’s regulation in action.

Your Owl Brain Deserves Support

So the next time you, or someone you love, hits a wall, try this gentle question:

Where’s your owl? Is it still with you? Or has it flown off for a bit?

And if it’s flown off, what could help bring it back?

A break? A walk? A breath? A plan? A little help? A little hope?

You don’t have to do it all, all the time, from a calm and clear-headed place. But when you recognize where you are, you can choose what to do next.

And that, I think, is the real magic of this work, at home, in business, and everywhere in between.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 10/2/25 Lindsey Morano 10/2/25

Why Lasting Change Feels So Slow in the Short Run

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Unsplash.

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

One of the lessons I’ve had to learn over and over again is this: You can’t put a time limit on how long change takes.

Not real, lasting change. Not “this-is-who-I-am-now” kind of change.

And honestly? That’s frustrating.

Because we want to believe that after 30 days (or 90, or 6 months), we’ll have it down. That it will feel automatic. That we’ll no longer have to try.

But that’s not how most of it works.

Whether you're building a new habit, learning a new skill, or trying to get your systems to finally feel natural, it almost always feels hard for a lot longer than you think it should.

And then... one day, it doesn’t.

Not because there was a lightbulb moment. Not because of some massive transformation. But because, somewhere along the way, it just started to stick.

A Few (Very Human) Examples

Invoicing clients used to feel impossibly hard. I’d procrastinate. I’d dread it. I’d have to psych myself up just to open QuickBooks.

And then, years later, I realized it no longer felt hard. Do I love it? No. I still don’t enjoy asking for money. But now it’s just... a task. One that gets done without a ton of emotional energy. Progress.

Writing this blog used to feel like an event. It was on my calendar. I had to plan my week around it, both physically and mentally. I’d block time, prepare a fun beverage, set up my comfy writing space, maybe light a candle. (It’s amazing how many ways we can “prepare” when we’re really just avoiding.)

Now? I actually enjoy it. I don’t always write it on the same day. Sometimes I sit down between meetings or during a lull in my afternoon and just start typing. No drama. Just writing. And I kinda love that.

Routines as a foster parent were another big one. When we started building morning and evening routines, they felt so hard. There were tears. There was resistance. From both of us. I remember thinking, “These are such basic things. Why do they feel like climbing a mountain?”

And then one day, two years later, I realized it didn’t feel that way anymore. There was a rhythm. There was ease. Not always perfect, but no longer exhausting.

Getting Started

But Not Everything Becomes Easy

Here’s another important part of the story: If something still feels like a grind after years of trying, it might not be for you.

For a long time, I tried to meditate every morning. And maybe I didn’t give it enough time, but I gave it a few years, on and off. I read the books. I downloaded the apps. I really tried.

But it never became something I looked forward to. It always felt like something I should do, not something I wanted to do.

Eventually, I let it go.

I still take a few deep breaths when I’m overwhelmed. I still pause when I feel my heart rate climbing. But I no longer force myself to sit cross-legged in silence every morning.

And that’s okay, too.

So What’s the Point?

Change takes time. Sometimes a lot of time.

You may not notice it happening. You may think nothing is shifting. But you’re laying the groundwork. You’re building the muscle. You’re showing up.

And if you keep showing up, imperfectly, inconsistently, but persistently, there’s a very good chance that one day, you’ll look around and realize:

This thing that used to be so hard? It’s just part of your life now.

And that’s a quiet kind of magic I never get tired of seeing.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 9/25/25 Lindsey Morano 9/25/25

The 2-Minute Task That Helps You Finally Get Started

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

You know that feeling. You’ve got a project that’s been sitting on your mental to-do list for way too long.

It’s not that you don’t care about it. You do. You actually want to get started.

But instead of starting, you keep pushing it to tomorrow. Or next week. Or “once I have a full afternoon free” (which, let’s be honest, may never happen).

The truth is: starting is often the hardest part.

Not because the project is impossible. But because it’s big. Vague. Unformed. You don’t know where to begin, so you don’t.

But here’s one of my favorite little tricks: find a 2-minute task.

Just one. That’s it.

Getting Started

What’s a 2-Minute Task?

It’s a simple action that helps you step toward the project, without needing to dive in all at once.

Something that tells your brain, “Hey, we’re doing this. Gently.”

A few favorites from my own life and the clients I work with:

Want to pack for a trip? Bring the suitcase up from the basement and set it by your bed before you leave for work. That’s it.
Need to work on a blog post? Open your Notes app or Evernote and create a new file. Give it a title.
Preparing for a meeting? Jot down three questions you want to ask.
Have a presentation coming up? Create a new PowerPoint file. Save it with the name of the talk.
Need to do your homework later? Pull out your textbook and notebook, and set them on your desk before dinner.

These tasks don’t take long. But they matter. They help you start, without starting all the way.

They say: “Hey, project. I see you. I’m coming.”

Why This Works

It sounds too simple, right?

But here’s the thing: when something feels overwhelming, it’s usually not because of the task itself. It’s because of the emotional weight we attach to it.

We think we need to start perfectly. Or have a big stretch of time. Or be fully ready.

And when we can’t meet those conditions, we wait.

The 2-minute task works because it lowers the bar. It says, “Let’s just crack the door open.”

Once the suitcase is upstairs, it’s easier to start packing. Once the PowerPoint file is saved, it’s easier to type your presentation ideas in a slide and build it out. Once the textbook is on the desk, sitting down to read it feels... doable.

Progress Counts, Even When It’s Small

You don’t have to finish the whole thing right now. You just have to move forward, even a little.

And the truth is, once you take that first 2-minute step, you might just feel ready to take the next.

Or not. That’s okay too. Because the magic is in getting unstuck, not in rushing to done.

So if there’s something you’ve been avoiding, or something that’s quietly weighing on you, try this:

Ask yourself: What’s a 2-minute task that would make starting easier later? Then… go do it.

Because small steps count. They add up. And sometimes, all you need to do is move just enough to change the story from “I haven’t started” to “I’m in motion.”

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 9/18/25 Lindsey Morano 9/18/25

Organizing Your Business: It's Simpler (and Smarter) Than You Think

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Years ago, I walked into a small business to help with some office organizing. There were sticky notes everywhere, on the walls, computer monitors, even a few on a coffee mug. The supply closet was bursting at the seams, and nobody could find the backup printer ink... so they just kept buying more.

Sound familiar?

What I’ve learned, both as a certified professional organizer and a business coach, is this: business organizing isn't just about aesthetics. It’s about clarity. It's about efficiency. And, frankly, it’s about money.

Let me explain.

Why Organizing Your Business Matters More Than You Think

When your business is disorganized, you're not just losing time, you’re losing money. Literally.

You're replacing things you already own. You're throwing out supplies that got damaged because they weren’t stored properly. Your team is spending time searching for tools, files, or that “one thing” they swear was just here.

And beyond the physical clutter, there’s the emotional weight. Disorganization creates friction, in your workflow, your communication, and your headspace. Your clients feel it, too. Whether it’s fair or not, a messy space often gets translated into a messy business.

The good news? Getting organized doesn’t have to be complicated. And it doesn’t need to happen all at once. But it does need a plan.

Getting Started

Start Small: What Business Organizing Actually Looks Like

A lot of people hear the word “organize” and immediately picture color-coded binders and label makers everywhere. And while I do love a well-labeled bin, organizing your business is about functionality first.

Here’s what it might look like:

Create a supply system: Instead of overordering (or underordering), set up a simple weekly inventory checklist. When someone notices you're low on sticky notes, you already have a process for restocking them, intentionally.
Organize your files—physical and digital: Can you find what you need, when you need it? That’s the goal. It may be time to decide what lives in a file cabinet and what belongs in the cloud. (Spoiler alert: Not everything needs to be scanned today. But you can choose a clean starting point and a go-forward system.)
Give every item a home: This is a big one. If your team never knows where to put the backup batteries, they’ll always end up in five different drawers. Use bins, drawer organizers, shelves, whatever works for your space, and label clearly.
Declutter your digital desktop: Yep, business organizing includes your electronics. Clean off your digital desktop. File old emails. Rename those documents titled “final_final_FINAL_v3.”

It’s Not Just the “Stuff”. It’s the System

One of the biggest misconceptions I see is that organizing is a one-time event. Like: “We’ll clean out the storage room this Friday, and then we’ll be good.” But organizing is only sustainable when you build systems that are easy to maintain.

That might mean:

Setting aside 15 minutes on Fridays to reset your workspace.
Assigning a team member to check supply inventory weekly.
Decluttering your desktop every Monday morning before diving into new tasks.

Small shifts. Big impact.

The Hidden Bonus: A More Empowered Team

When everything has a place, your team doesn’t have to ask where things go. They feel more empowered, more confident, and more productive. You spend less time managing the “stuff,” and more time focusing on the work that moves the needle.

I’ve seen it firsthand, teams that start with organizing their office supplies and end up refining their workflows, improving communication, and running smoother operations overall.

So, Where Should You Start?

Wherever you are. Pick one drawer. One shelf. One digital folder.

Organizing your business isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. You don’t need a label on every bin or a color-coded spreadsheet for every task. You just need a clear system that works for you and your team.

Because when your space works with you, not against you, everything gets a little easier.

And if that sounds good to you, maybe today is the day to start.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

Share this post

Lindsey Morano 9/11/25 Lindsey Morano 9/11/25

Let Go Of The Things You Think You Should Do (But Know You Won't)

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

There’s a special kind of mental clutter that doesn’t live in our junk drawers or inboxes. It lives on our to-do lists.

I’m talking about the things we think we should do. The ones that hang around week after week, quietly nagging us. They sound like good ideas. Other people seem to do them. But deep down? We know we’re probably never going to do them.

Still, we hesitate to let them go.

Because maybe if we were a little more disciplined... A little more organized... A little more like that friend who makes green juice and runs half marathons...

Then maybe we would do them.

This is a big one for me.

There are things I’ve clung to for years, not because I want to do them, but because I feel like I should. And so they sit there, quietly taking up space. Not just on the list, but in my head.

But lately, I’ve been giving myself permission to let them go. Not because I’m giving up. But because I’m choosing to make room for what actually matters to me.

Let me give you an example.

I’ve fully accepted that I am not a person who cooks fancy meals. I love a beautiful recipe as much as anyone. But I do not love spending hours in the kitchen or cleaning up afterward. We eat decently healthy dinners around here, and that’s good enough for me. I can admire the elaborate cooking videos on Instagram without feeling like I need to become a gourmet chef.

Same with running. I love the idea of being a runner. I’ve tried. Many times. I’ve downloaded the apps, bought the shoes, made the playlists. And while I’ve occasionally felt good after a run, I have never, not once, enjoyed the run itself. I like moving my body, but I’ve learned that I’d much rather take a walk. So I walk. And it’s enough.

I’ve made peace with those things.

But the smaller ones? Those still trip me up.

Take following up on emails, for example. Everyone says you should follow up when someone doesn’t respond. “Circle back!” “Bump this to the top of your inbox!” And I get it. I really do. But I hate feeling like I’m bugging people.

So I’ll schedule the email to reappear a week later, as a nudge to myself. And then... sometimes I still don’t follow up. Not because I forgot, but because I just don’t want to be a burden. These days, I’ll usually give it one check-in and then let it go. But it’s still a struggle. That little voice whispers, “You should be more persistent.”

And maybe I should.

But also... maybe I shouldn’t.

Getting Started

Maybe not everything that sounds like a good idea deserves space in our brains.

Sometimes the most loving thing we can do for ourselves is to cross it off the list. Not because it’s done, but because we’ve decided we’re done with it.

So, I’ll ask you:

What’s on your list that you feel like you should do... but deep down, you know you won’t?

What would it feel like to let it go? To stop carrying the weight of it?

You don’t have to be someone else’s version of productive. You just have to build a life that feels good for you.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 9/4/25 Lindsey Morano 9/4/25

Are You a Planner or a Go-With-the-Flow-er?

Photos by oxana v on Unsplash and Getty Images on Unsplash.

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Generally speaking, there are two types of people in this world: those who like to plan... and those who most definitely do not.

Planners thrive on calendars, color-coded lists, and knowing what’s coming next. For them, structure isn’t a constraint, it’s a form of freedom. It helps them relax, be present, and feel grounded. Without a plan, they might feel anxious and out of sync.

Then there are the go-with-the-flow-ers. These folks light up in the moment. They’re adaptable, spontaneous, and great at navigating life as it unfolds. For them, too much planning can feel stifling. Why map everything out when the best moments are often the ones we didn’t see coming?

Which one sounds more like you?

Personally, I land firmly in the planning camp. I find comfort in knowing what’s ahead and having a framework to move within. I can roll with spontaneity, but only after the schedule’s been made. I get cranky when I'm stuck dealing with something that could’ve been avoided with a little foresight.

That said, life has a funny way of pairing us with our opposites. Whether it’s our work partners, our best friends, or the person we chose to build a life with, it’s not uncommon to find yourself navigating the dance between structure and spontaneity.

And that’s not a bad thing.

In work, planners help move things forward with intention. The go-with-the-flow types bring in flexibility, creativity, and often, much-needed perspective when plans inevitably shift. Together, they balance each other out.

In relationships, having a planner can mean fewer missed flights, more sunscreen packed, and everyone showing up at the right field for soccer practice. The spontaneous one? They bring the magic. The impromptu ice cream runs, the random dance parties, the reminder that joy doesn’t always have to be penciled in.

Some of the best friendships I know have this exact dynamic. One friend handles the logistics, makes the reservation, and sends the calendar invite. The other shows up with contagious laughter and unforgettable stories.

Getting Started

So how do we honor both styles, especially when they clash?

A few things come to mind:

Communicate your preferences with “I” statements. Instead of, “You never plan anything,” try, “I feel more at ease when we have a loose plan.”
Notice what the other brings to the table. That last-minute beach day may not have been on the agenda, but wasn’t it exactly what you needed?
Negotiate, don’t dominate. Can there be a plan... with a little room to wander?

Philippa Perry, psychotherapist and counselor, reminds us how powerful it is to speak from our own experience. “I prefer to do it like this,” goes a lot farther than, “You’re doing it wrong.”

There’s no right or wrong way to be. The magic often happens in the middle, in the space where planners and improvisers find their rhythm.

So tell me... which one are you? And what’s it like loving, living, or working with your opposite?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 8/28/25 Lindsey Morano 8/28/25

The 9am Monday Meeting I Didn't Know I Needed

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

I do most of my coaching on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. And like many of you, I often feel that Monday morning dread. You know the feeling—your calendar is full, your to-do list is long, and your brain is swirling with everything that needs to happen between now and Friday.

Even when I’ve done my planning. Even when I feel relatively prepared. There’s just something about Monday morning that feels big.

So here’s what I’ve learned (and re-learned) the hard way: The worst part is before I start.

This past academic term, my first client call wasn’t until 10:30 AM on Mondays. I figured, “Perfect! That gives me a nice, slow start to ease into the week.” I imagined myself sipping coffee, clearing out emails, maybe even getting in a walk. Except… that’s not what happened.

Instead, I spent those early hours feeling edgy. I’d open my inbox and immediately get overwhelmed. I’d try to get into the groove, but my brain wasn’t cooperating. It was all noise, no flow. The quiet start I thought I wanted didn’t feel peaceful. It just gave me more time to worry about everything I hadn’t done yet.

Getting Started

Contrast that with when I have a 9:00 AM coaching call.

It’s early. It’s a bit of a scramble to get there. But once I’m in the session—fully present, fully engaged—I feel like myself again. I stop spinning. I get grounded. It’s like the act of doing pulls me out of my head and back into the moment. And that one call? It sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Suddenly the emails don’t feel so overwhelming. The to-do list looks more doable. My brain… calms down.

There’s this great quote I think about a lot:

“Action breeds confidence and clarity; inaction breeds doubt and fear.” —Dale Carnegie. And wow, do I feel that on Monday mornings.

So if you’re feeling stuck at the beginning of your week, or your day, maybe the kindest thing you can do for yourself isn’t more planning or more coffee. Maybe it’s just starting. Taking the first step. Doing the first thing. Even imperfectly.

Because once you’re in motion, everything gets better.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 8/21/25 Lindsey Morano 8/21/25

Not Making a Decision, Is a Decision

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Have you ever pushed off a decision so long that the decision just… made itself?

Yeah, me too.

It usually starts small. There’s an event coming up—maybe a conference or a dinner or something that sounds kind of worth it, but you’re not 100% sure. You think, “Maybe I’ll go. I just need to check a few things… see if the babysitter is available… figure out if I can move that meeting…”

And then you don’t. You don’t check your calendar. You don’t text the sitter. You don’t make a decision. You just sort of... let it float.

Until—surprise!—the sitter’s booked. Or the ticket price went up. Or your schedule filled in. And suddenly, you’re not going anymore. Not because you decided not to go, but because the window closed.

That’s the trap.

I’ve found myself here more times than I care to admit. I wait too long to RSVP. I put off launching a project because I’m not totally sure what direction to take it. I hold off on making a call because I don’t feel ready—and then, eventually, the moment passes.

And here’s the truth I’ve had to remind myself (and my clients) over and over:

Not making a decision is a decision. It’s a decision by default.

Getting Started

It’s sneaky, because it feels passive. Safe. Like you're buying yourself time. But more often than not, all you're doing is giving your power away. You let the clock run out, and suddenly life decides for you.

Sometimes that works out fine. But sometimes, it doesn’t. And you’re left feeling frustrated or disappointed, not because of the outcome, but because you didn’t own the choice.

So lately, I’ve been trying to pay more attention to those lingering, half-decided decisions. I ask myself, “If I had to choose right now, yes or no, what would I do?” And then I try to act on it. Even if it’s imperfect. Even if I’m still a little unsure.

Because moving forward with intention, rather than drifting by default, just feels better. Even when the choice is hard.

What about you? Have you ever found yourself caught in the trap of not deciding?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 8/14/25 Lindsey Morano 8/14/25

Get To Your Productive Place

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

I have a comfy chair in my bedroom, my go-to spot when I need to get things done but don't feel particularly motivated.

It’s where I often write my blogs, sort through emails, or even just sit and think. The chair is nestled next to a big window, paired with a cozy ottoman and a little end table that holds my water and a few cheerful decorations. It’s a calming space that feels like mine.

On the days when I feel completely drained and tell myself, “I can’t do anything right now”, but know I still need to try, I bring my laptop to that chair.

And surprisingly often, once I’m there, I find the energy to tackle a few small things. I cross off items I didn’t think I had the capacity for. They’re not always big tasks, but they’re forward motion. Progress.

Getting Started

Sometimes, simply going to the place, your place, can unlock just enough energy to do what needs to be done. Your “productive place” doesn’t have to look a certain way. It just needs to be a space where you feel grounded, safe, and ready to take a small step forward.

So, where’s your productive place?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 8/7/25 Lindsey Morano 8/7/25

When Comparison Helps–and When It Just Hurts

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Let’s be honest, comparison is part of being human.

You’re scrolling through Instagram, and suddenly you’re wondering why their house is so perfect!

Or you’re talking to a friend and thinking, “Wait… how can she afford that vacation I can only dream about?”

Or you hear someone has a New York Times bestseller, and you start questioning your weekly blog post routine.

Just me? Didn’t think so.

The thing is, comparison isn’t always bad. In fact, sometimes it’s helpful. But only if you're comparing the right things.

Getting Started

Helpful Comparison: The Kind You Can Do Something About

If someone’s doing something that lights a little spark in you, pay attention.

Like maybe you notice someone who’s really consistent with their email list or shows up weekly with helpful Instagram Lives. That kind of comparison can be a nudge. "Hey, I want more of that energy in my life, too."

Or maybe you hear how a friend automates their savings every month, and it inspires you to take a closer look at your own finances, not with shame, but with curiosity.

These are comparisons that point toward action, not self-judgment.

Not-So-Helpful Comparison: The Kind That Feels Like a Punch in the Gut

This is the kind where you compare your middle to someone else’s highlight reel. Like wondering why your coaching business doesn’t look like someone else's… when they’ve been doing it for ten years, have a full team, and run ads with a budget that could fund your kid’s college tuition.

Or comparing your blog to someone with a massive book deal, as if those two things belong on the same scale.

Or comparing your income to someone else's… without knowing anything about their expenses, investments, support systems, or even what trade-offs they’ve made to get there.

That kind of comparison is sneaky. It often sounds like:

“Why am I not further along?” “What’s wrong with me?” “I’ll never catch up.”

And that’s where it hurts more than helps.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 7/31/25 Lindsey Morano 7/31/25

Hard Is Not the Same as Bad

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

We live in a world that often celebrates ease.

Fast. Easy. Convenient. Everywhere you look, those are the promises being made. And hey, I totally get it! I love a good hack. If there’s a way to make something simpler, I’m all in. Work smarter, not harder, right? But I’ve started to notice… somewhere along the way, easy became the end goal. And I’m not so sure that’s always a good thing.

And that’s a problem because some of the best, most meaningful parts of life are hard.

Starting something new is hard. It asks us to step into uncertainty and to face the discomfort of not knowing what we're doing yet. But think about it, every great accomplishment in your life began with something new and unfamiliar. Nothing meaningful starts from your comfort zone.

Becoming a foster parent was and is the hardest thing I’ve ever done, hands down! It's stretched me emotionally, mentally, and physically. There have been moments I've felt completely unequipped. But it’s also been the most meaningful, transformative adventure of my life. The kind of growth that doesn’t come easy, but is deeply worth it.

Starting my business, Happy Spaces, was hard, too. Building something from scratch, carving out a space for my ideas and expertise, required more courage, resilience, and long nights than I expected. But now? It’s not just what I do; it’s a reflection of who I am. And I wouldn't trade that journey for anything.

Now, I’m dreaming about writing a book, something built from the 143 blog posts I’ve written so far. I know it will be hard. It already is. Organizing, editing, rewriting, facing the vulnerability of putting something permanent into the world. But again: hard does not mean bad. It means worthwhile.

And yet, think about how we talk about hard things:

"This class is so hard—maybe I should just drop it." "My boss is kind of intense—maybe they’re just not a great fit." "This new project is overwhelming—maybe I’m not the right person for it."

Sound familiar? We all do it! Hard starts to feel like a warning sign, like something’s wrong. What if, instead of running from hard, we got curious about it?

Getting Started

Maybe that class is challenging because it’s asking more of you, and that’s a good thing. Maybe your boss has high expectations because they believe in what you can do. Maybe that project is stretching you, and all you really need is a little extra support and a clearer plan.

Hard doesn’t have to mean “this isn’t working.”

Hard doesn’t mean bad. It often means important. It often means you care. It often means growth is happening.

So the next time something feels hard, pause. Ask yourself: Is this actually bad? Or is this the beginning of something meaningful?

Because easy doesn’t always bring joy, purpose, or transformation. But hard? Hard might just be the path to your most powerful story.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 7/24/25 Lindsey Morano 7/24/25

The Best Trait You Can Build

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

People often ask me: If you could pick just one trait that leads to success, what would it be?

My answer is always the same, and it’s not even close.

High frustration tolerance.

If you have it, you’ll keep going. If you don’t, you’ll likely give up.

I see it everywhere: What determines a student’s grades? Frustration tolerance. What predicts who will thrive in a big new role? Frustration tolerance. What fuels the ability to stick with learning a new skill, even when it’s hard? You guessed it—-frustration tolerance.

Because most skills can be learned. The real question is: how long are you willing to sit in the discomfort of not getting it yet?

You might wonder, Is there a downside to high frustration tolerance? Yes, and it’s a big one.

Sometimes, the very thing that keeps us pushing through also makes it hard to walk away. Just because you can figure something out doesn’t mean it’s worth the time, energy, or cost to your well-being. Wisdom is knowing the difference.

So where does frustration tolerance come from? Are you born with it, or can it be built?

I believe it’s both.

Some kids come into the world with a natural stubborn streak. The ones who insist, “I’ll do it myself!” even if it takes ten times longer. Those kids often grow into adults with high frustration tolerance. That fierce independence, while maddening for parents at times, can become a real superpower later in life.

But even if you weren’t born with it, you can build it.

Getting Started

It starts with small moments: Pushing just slightly past your comfort zone. Watching yourself struggle, and figure it out. Crossing finish lines you didn’t think you could reach.

Frustration tolerance grows from doing hard things, especially the ones you couldn’t do without support.

The more comfortable you get with not yet knowing, the more trust you build in your ability to learn, adapt, and persevere.

As Dr. Becky calls it, support your kids in “The Learning Space”. That stretch between not knowing and mastery. That’s where growth happens.

And support yourself there, too.

Choose the hard things you believe you can do, even if they make you uncomfortable. Stay with the struggle long enough to see your own capability unfold. That’s how you build not just success, but self-trust.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 7/17/25 Lindsey Morano 7/17/25

Compulsive. Chronic. Numbing.

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Brené Brown defines addiction as “compulsive and chronic numbing.”

That definition deeply resonates with me. It has opened the door to a deeper understanding, not just of substance abuse, but of the habits and patterns quietly overtaking so many of our waking hours.

When I work with clients, we often start with a focus on productivity, not to push for perfection, but to help them do what matters most.

Getting Started

It’s not about becoming a productivity machine.

It’s about finishing your calculus homework so you can pass the class and stay in your major.

It’s about turning in your assignments so you can stop counting zeros and get off academic probation.

It’s about meeting deadlines at work, so you can keep the job you both enjoy and rely on to support your family.

But there’s a growing challenge I see again and again: the pull of compulsive screen time—TikTok, YouTube, Netflix, video games.

When we understand addiction as chronic numbing, these behaviors start to make more sense.

Calculus is hard. Video games offer instant relief.

Starting a dry, tedious discussion post feels overwhelming. TikTok feels light and fun.

Facing another packed workday feels heavy. A Netflix binge at midnight feels like an escape, until you're dragging yourself out of bed four hours later, more overwhelmed than before.

When clients keep choosing screens over sleep, over school, over work, even when they desperately want a different outcome, it may be time to reframe the conversation.

Because this doesn’t always look like a “problem” in the traditional sense. But when numbing becomes chronic, when it interferes with your goals, your health, your peace... it matters.

Here’s some food for thought: We don’t tell alcoholics to try “just one drink a day.” We don’t tell kids, “one cigarette won’t hurt.”

So why are we okay with apps and platforms that are literally designed to hook us, and keep us hooked?

Did you know that executives at Apple and Google famously limit their own children’s screen time, or avoid giving them smartphones altogether?

For me, this definition of addiction hits home most with food, numbing stress or discomfort with a treat. But for many of the clients I work with, it’s screen time: social media, streaming, scrolling. These aren't just bad habits. They're coping strategies. Ones that work in the short term, but cost us in the long term.

Maybe it’s time we start treating them with the seriousness they deserve.

Not with shame. But with honesty. With curiosity.

And with a commitment to reclaiming our time, and our focus from things that leave us feeling empty.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 7/10/25 Lindsey Morano 7/10/25

Don't Feed The Frustration

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Have you ever noticed how the more you dwell on something frustrating, the bigger it seems to grow? It’s like handing it a microphone and shining a spotlight on it. Suddenly, that one small annoyance starts to take over your entire day.

I’ve been there too. I’ve replayed a stressful two-minute moment in my mind for hours. It echoes, it expands, and suddenly I’ve spent half a day feeling tense over something I can’t change.

Getting Started

This isn’t about pretending everything’s fine or brushing real problems under the rug. It’s about choosing where to place your mental and emotional energy. Because what you give your attention to, gains power.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy reminds us that we’re not at the mercy of every thought that pops into our minds. When your thoughts start spiraling, you can pause and gently redirect them. You can ask yourself: Is this thought helping me? Is it even true?

Instead of replaying frustrations, try filling that space with something healing or helpful—building a social connection, working on a meaningful project, or simply identifying one small step forward.

You deserve peace. And sometimes, peace begins with what you choose to and choose not to focus on.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 7/3/25 Lindsey Morano 7/3/25

Independence Day Reflections

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

As Independence Day approaches, I find myself thinking about independence in a slightly different way. Not the red, white, and blue kind (though I love a good fireworks display), but the kind that shows up in how we learn, work, and move through the world.

Some people love group projects. Others, like me, tend to cringe at the memory of them.

Back in college, it felt like every other assignment was a group project. And for me, they were frustrating more often than not. I always felt like I ended up doing more than my share, while the grade was split equally across the board. At the heart of it, I realize now, it wasn’t just about fairness, it was about standards. I had high expectations for the work I submitted, and I wasn’t willing to lower the bar just to keep the peace.

So I did more. I took control. I worked independently whenever I could. Because if the success or failure of the project was going to rest on someone’s shoulders, I wanted them to be mine.

Getting Started

Fast forward to today, and I spend my days coaching students, many of whom thrive in group settings. It’s actually fascinating to watch. For some students, group projects are a game-changer. The accountability, the shared responsibility, the knowledge that someone else will be relying on their contribution—those things don’t stress them out the way they did for me. In fact, they often do better work when they’re not going it alone.

Maybe it’s personality. Maybe it’s trust. Maybe it’s just how we’re wired.

Some students are natural collaborators. Others prefer solitude. Some need the quiet of their own space to process and create, while others feed off the energy of a team. And honestly? Both are valid. Both can lead to incredible results. But knowing which one works best for you, that’s where the magic starts.

As for me? I’ve come to appreciate collaboration a lot more than I used to. Especially when it’s intentional, balanced, and respectful of everyone’s strengths. I still love my solo time (hello, writing in quiet coffee shops), but I’ve learned that sometimes the best ideas come from conversations, not just contemplation.

So on this Independence Day, I’m celebrating both: the freedom to work the way that suits us best and the wisdom to know when to lean on others.

How about you? Do you prefer working in a group or flying solo?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 6/26/25 Lindsey Morano 6/26/25

Start with a Brain Dump

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

One of the biggest things that holds us back isn’t lack of motivation or time. It’s the constant swirl of thoughts in our heads.

To-do lists, reminders, worries, half-formed ideas. They all spin around in our minds, creating stress and overwhelm.

Getting Started

The best way to quiet the noise?

Get it out of your head.

Before you dive into your weekly planning session, try this: Set a timer for five minutes and do a brain dump. Write or type everything that comes to mind, no filters, no structure. Nothing is too big or too small. Just get it out.

If you’re about to start a new project, this is the perfect way to begin. Instead of jumping straight into action, take five minutes to brain-dump every single thought, task, and question you have about the project. It’s a simple step that lays the foundation for real progress.

Feeling overwhelmed at night as you're trying to fall asleep? Yep, same solution. Keep a notebook by your bed, or use your phone’s notes app and brain dump everything that’s on your mind. Leave it on your desk or in your work bag to revisit in the morning.

When I start working with clients, I often hear things like: “I don’t need to write that down. I won’t forget. It’s top of mind.”

But here’s the truth: they’re spending valuable brain energy trying not to forget. Energy that could be used on problem-solving, decision-making, or simply being present.

Once they start brain dumping regularly, they begin to feel the difference. The anxiety goes down. Their minds feel clearer. They start using their brain for the things that matter - creative thinking, deep work, meaningful conversations.

And they finally feel like they can breathe.

It all starts with a brain dump. It’s five minutes that can shift your entire day.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 6/19/25 Lindsey Morano 6/19/25

Words Are Cheap

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Words are cheap. It’s action that counts.

We all know someone who talks a big game. They sound confident. Their ideas seem brilliant. But when you take a closer look at their daily habits, their actual accomplishments, there’s not much there.

The truth is, talk is easy. Execution is hard.

When I first started my business, I would meet people who absolutely blew me away. They had bold visions, impressive-sounding plans, and what seemed like wildly successful businesses. I admired them. I cheered them on. And quietly, I wondered: Why haven’t I figured it out like they have?

But time has a way of revealing what’s real.

In almost every case where I thought, Wow, they’re amazing, I later discovered it was mostly smoke and mirrors. The business that sounded so successful had quietly closed. The big ideas never got off the ground. Some of these people had even left clients feeling worse off, disappointed, discouraged, and doubting themselves.

They were great at marketing. Great at talking. Great at looking successful.

And listen, in today’s world, being a skilled self-promoter can be a career. You can build a platform, even become an influencer. That’s fine. It’s just not me.

Because talking about a business isn’t the same as building one.

Getting Started

I remind myself of that constantly.

If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. If someone’s success seems overnight, it almost never is.

Starting something new is hard. Starting a business is hard. Growth is uncomfortable. Results take time.

To succeed, you need more than a dream, you need a plan. You need to show up when no one’s watching. You need to make mistakes, learn, adjust, and keep going.

And if you’re not seeing instant results? That doesn’t mean you’re failing.

It means you’re doing the real work.

So don’t compare your quiet, consistent progress to someone else’s highlight reel.

Words are cheap. Actions—your daily, persistent, imperfect actions—are what build something real.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

Share this post

Lindsey Morano 6/12/25 Lindsey Morano 6/12/25

Real Change Takes Time

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

I love coaching students. There’s nothing more fulfilling than watching them grow into the capable, confident humans I already know they can be.

As an Academic Coach, one of the hardest parts of my job isn’t working with students, it’s walking alongside their parents. These are parents who see their child’s potential, know how bright they are, and desperately want them to succeed. But they often hope for that success on a fast-track timeline.

Here’s the truth I remind them gently, over and over:

Real change takes time.

I’ve said this before, but it’s worth repeating: in all my years of coaching, I’ve never worked with a high school student for more than a year who still needed academic coaching in college. Why? Because they had the chance to build systems, habits, and confidence while they were still under the structure and support of home.

Now, most of the students I work with are already in college.

Their families are excited for a fresh start. They recognize the need for support, and that’s why they reach out. The students themselves want to succeed. They’re smart, motivated, and eager to make the most of this chapter.

But many of them cruised through high school doing the bare minimum. They were bright enough to pull it off. And when they did struggle, their parents hired subject tutors, someone to help them complete assignments or pass the class.

What no one taught them was how to plan their week. How to block off study time. How to walk into office hours and say, “I’m lost, and I don’t know where to start.”

At home, parents made sure they woke up on time. They turned off the Wi-Fi at 10 PM. They collected phones before bed. Those strategies can be incredibly helpful in getting a teen to graduation.

Getting Started

But here’s what I want to say gently to every parent:

Don’t expect a miracle when your child moves away to college.

It takes time to learn how to manage yourself - your time, your energy, your motivation.

It takes time to learn how to leave the comfort of your dorm room and find a study spot where you can actually focus.

It takes time to build the courage to ask for help, especially when you’re not even sure what you need, just that you’re overwhelmed.

For most students, it takes two to three years to figure out the systems and strategies that work for them. That’s when they’re doing the work for themselves, because they want to grow.

If they’re doing it to meet someone else’s expectations? It might take even longer.

And I know, college is expensive. It’s supposed to take four years. Parents worry, and rightfully so. This is a big investment.

But let’s zoom out.

In the grand scheme of life, two or three years to learn how to manage yourself, take ownership, and become resilient? That’s not long at all.

We keep our eyes on the bigger picture: building a life with purpose, financial independence, and a deep sense of personal success.

That doesn’t happen overnight.

Real change takes time. And that’s okay.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.