Ever have an unexpected situation come up that forces you to press pause? Shifting gears can bring up fear, frustration, and anxiety around dropping the ball on our previous promises and priorities.

I had an experience exactly like this myself this month, and in this heart-to-heart, I share the personal details of how my unexpected January has helped me step back and adjust my priorities.

This experience has led me to understand the profound impact of stepping back and slowing down, something that every leader needs to do – but is often a struggle for those of us who have long "fed" on the hustle.

Join me as I reflect on how I've learned to tune into my intuitive signals to prevent burnout and how choosing my 'Word of the Year' has been a beacon that steered me through some difficult decisions this month. Plus, I'll unravel the story of how Alfred T Dog bounded into my world, a bundle of fur wrapped in life lessons on readiness and adaptability.

Adopting Alfred wasn't just about gaining a pet; it was an expedition through my own vulnerabilities, a test of patience, and a reshuffle of my priorities that I hadn't anticipated. This chapter is a candid look at our shared experiences—from his comedic husky howls interrupting breath work sessions to the warmth he's brought into my life as we faced the cold grip of a Portland ice storm together.

His paw prints have softly padded over the blueprints of my January goals, teaching me valuable lessons about the importance of adaptability in both personal growth and creating a nurturing environment for our fluffy family member.

Join us on this deeply personal ride and maybe, just like me, you'll find your own Alfred: an unexpected (and sometimes frustrating) shift in your plans that turns out to be the greatest gift you could have received.

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Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach