The Self-Sabotage Trap (and How to Escape)

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days Picture this: you finally land the promotion, your launch hits six figures, your relationship feels like a rom-com—and then boom. Out of nowhere, you start unraveling. You forget the meeting, pick a fight over the dishes, or come down with a mystery illness right before the big presentation.   Sound familiar? You're not alone in this. You're not broken. You're not failing. You're just bumping up against something called the Upper Limit Problem—a sneaky little mindset trap that psychologist Gay Hendricks describes as your brain's way of keeping you "safe" in your comfort zone.   Here's the truth: your mind isn't trying to sabotage you—it's just scared of expansion. It thinks success is risky. But we're not here to play small anymore. It takes courage to step into the unknown, and we have that courage within us.   Today, we're breaking through that invisible ceiling. We're talking about how to stop self-sabotage, stretch your capacity for joy, and step boldly into the life God's calling you to—without shrinking back.   Because the answer isn't hustling harder, it's healing deeper. It's growing bigger from the inside out.   Listen in to learn more:  (01:16) - The Real Reason Smart, Successful Women Self-Destruct (02:44) - The Upper Limit Problem: Why Your Brain Sabotages Your Success (05:18) -Identity vs. Willpower: The Key Shift That Changes Everything (07:36) - The Upper Limit Breakthrough System to Stop Self-Sabotage (13:56) - The 20-Second Courage Rule That Rewires Fear Into Momentum WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE     Links to great things we discussed:    Alli’s Fun Recommendation - Discovery Cove Join The Coach School - https://www.thecoachschool.com/    I hope you loved this episode! 🎉Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss a thing. And guess what? We're on YouTube! If you're loving the content, show us some love by leaving a review and giving us some stars—it means the world to me! Take care, and stay fabulous!    xo,   Alli

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days!    Today we’re diving into part two of my conversation with the brilliant Anne-Laure Le Cunff—and trust me, you’re going to want to lean in for this one. Anne-Laure is a neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and one of the most refreshingly original voices I’ve come across when it comes to learning, growth, and creativity.   Her story is wild in the best way. She walked away from a high-powered career at Google (yes, that Google) to study neuroscience. Now she’s researching the science of curiosity and learning at King’s College London and running Nest Labs, where she helps people think better and live with more intention.   What I love most is how she blends deep research with practical tools that actually work—and she’s not afraid to bust the big myths, like the idea that success is some perfect, linear path. Spoiler alert: it’s not.   Her book Tiny Experiments absolutely blew me away. It’s packed with wisdom that’ll help you rethink your goals, your mindset, and the way you show up in the world. And today’s episode? It’s going to spark something new in you—I just know it.   Timestamps: (01:03) - Why Linear Goals Keep You Stuck (and What to Do Instead) (04:09) - How to Start Breaking Free from Linear Thinking (11:22) - The Crucial Difference Between Real Rest and Mindless Zoning Out (18:15) - How to Make the Second Half of Life Even More Exciting Than the First (23:01) - Why Anyone Can Experiment (and Why You Should)   WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE Links to great things we discussed:    Anne-Laure’s Book: Tiny Experiments Join The Coach School! Classes start this September!  https://www.thecoachschool.com/  I hope you loved this episode! 🎉 Don't forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you’re always in the loop. And hey, while you're at it, why not pop over to our YouTube channel and check us out? If you're feeling the love, leave a review and sprinkle some stars—your support truly means the world to me! Take care, and keep shining bright!    xo, Alli

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days   Perseverance doesn't have to be pretty. It doesn't need to sparkle or come wrapped in perfect Instagram quotes. It just needs to be faithful. We live in a world that's constantly shouting, "Do more! Be more! Hustle harder!" And it's exhausting. But there's a relief in knowing that you don't have to keep up with this culture.   But let me tell you something that'll flip that narrative on its head: your breakthrough isn't hiding behind another motivational podcast or a fresh planner. You don't need more hype. You need holy grit.   That sacred kind of grit that shows up when you're bone-tired. The kind that whispers, "God's still working," even when your heart feels heavy and your to-do list feels impossible. It's not about pushing harder—it's about standing firm. Right where God has planted you. Messy hair, unpolished prayers, and all.   Because here's the truth that we often forget: transformation doesn't come from our striving. It comes from our surrender. It's when we say, 'Okay, Lord. I'm here. I'm showing up. Use me.' That's when the real magic happens. Timestamps: (02:30) - What is Holy Grit? (03:37) - The Psychology of Resilience (04:22) -The Identity Shift That Turns Ordinary Faith Into Unshakable Grit (05:58) - How to Build Holy Grit in Real Life WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE Links to great things we discussed:    Alli’s Product Recommendation - Eucerin Roughness Relief Body Cream   I hope you loved this episode! 🎉Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss a thing. And guess what? We're on YouTube! If you're loving the content, show us some love by leaving a review and giving us some stars—it means the world to me! Take care, and stay fabulous!    xo, Alli

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days   Today, we’re diving into part one of a conversation that’s going to light your brain on fire—in the best way. I’m joined by Anne-Laure Le Cunff, a brilliant neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and one of the most refreshingly original thinkers I’ve come across when it comes to learning, growth, and creativity. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your own head, wished you could reignite your curiosity, or just wanted to fall in love with learning again—this episode is your invitation. Anne-Laure’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. She walked away from a high-powered role at Google to study neuroscience, and now she’s researching how our brains learn at King’s College London. She is also the founder of Nest Labs, where she helps people think with more clarity and live with more intention.  Her work is this beautiful blend of science-backed insight, creative thinking, and practical tools that challenge the way we’ve been taught to think. Her concept of “Tiny Experiments” completely changed the way I approach curiosity—and I knew I had to share it with you. You’re going to walk away from this episode rethinking what’s possible. Let’s get into it. Timestamps: (02:13) - Anne-Laure’s Story: From Google Powerhouse to Neuroscience Trailblazer (04:05) - How She Tested Different Paths Until the Right One Clicked (07:18) - Why Focusing on Output vs. Outcome Changes Everything (14:40) - Breaking Free from the Self-Sabotage Loop (21:08) - The Tiny Experiment That Completely Transformed Her Life   WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE   Links to great things we discussed:    Anne-Laure’s Book: Tiny Experiments   I hope you loved this episode! 🎉 Don't forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you’re always in the loop. And hey, while you're at it, why not pop over to our YouTube channel and check us out? If you're feeling the love, leave a review and sprinkle some stars—your support truly means the world to me! Take care, and keep shining bright!    xo, Alli

  The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days   You’re not drowning because life is too busy—you’re feeling stuck because somewhere along the way, you forgot that you were made to lead it, not just survive it. What if the chaos isn’t the enemy, but the invitation? That feeling of overwhelm might be a divine breadcrumb, nudging you toward something deeper, something that’s been waiting for your attention. Today, I want to walk with you through this. I’ll show you how your mind—yes, that beautiful, God-designed mind—is the control center of your life. And when you learn to take your thoughts captive, everything begins to shift. Not overnight, but in a way that’s real, lasting, and full of grace. Timestamps: (03:14) - The 3 Sneaky Patterns That Quietly Steal Your Personal Agency (05:11) - The Game-Changing Shift: Focus on the Gain, Not the Gap (07:12) -You Were Never Wired to Live in Constant Overwhelm (08:02) - 4 Simple Ways to Start Reclaiming Control Right Now WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE   Links to great things we discussed:    Alli’s Product Recommendation - Weighted Lap Blanket Build Your Coaching Program – https://alliworthington.com/quickstart    I hope you loved this episode! 🎉Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss a thing. And guess what? We're on YouTube! If you're loving the content, show us some love by leaving a review and giving us some stars—it means the world to me! Take care, and stay fabulous!    xo, Alli

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days Today we’re diving into part two of my powerhouse conversation with Dr. Vonda Wright—orthopedic surgeon, aging expert, and total firecracker on Instagram. If you’re not following her yet, go ahead and fix that. She’s flipping the script on what it means to age well, and let me tell you, her insight is next-level.   In this episode, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of what your body actually needs. You’ve heard the basics—move more, eat better—but when you understand the science behind it? That’s when it clicks. And when it clicks, change doesn’t feel like a chore—it feels like freedom.   We’re talking supplements, muscle, bone health, and yes—your gut’s wild connection to your skeleton (I know, right?). When you start piecing this puzzle together, everything shifts. You feel stronger, lighter, more vibrant—and more you.   This is the kind of wisdom that makes midlife feel like a fresh start, not a slow fade. I promise, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling smarter, stronger, and ready to take bold action toward the life God’s calling you to live. Timestamps: (02:14) - A Simple Fix for Body Pain That Actually Works (07:11) - Subtle Signs You’re Living in a Constant State of Stress (o8:57) - How Stress Secretly Speeds Up Aging and Steals Your Energy (13:12) - The Gut-Bone Connection You’ve Probably Never Heard Of (17:52) - Dr. Vonda’s FACE Protocol: A Smarter Way to Move Your Body   WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE   Links to great things we discussed:  Dr. Vonda’s Skin Care Recommendation - The One Skin Cream Unbreakable: A Woman's Guide to Aging with Power Build Your Coaching Business Quick Start  - https://alliworthington.com/quickstart  I hope you loved this episode! 🎉 Don't forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you’re always in the loop. And hey, while you're at it, why not pop over to our YouTube channel and check us out? If you're feeling the love, leave a review and sprinkle some stars—your support truly means the world to me! Take care, and keep shining bright!    xo, Alli

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days   The women who flourish in the second half of life? They’re not gripping tightly to old routines or outdated roles. They’re the ones who hear God’s whisper and have the courage to pivot—with purpose, with grace, and with bold faith. Midlife isn’t a breakdown; it’s a divine breakthrough. That stirring in your spirit? It’s not a crisis—it’s a calling. It’s the Holy Spirit nudging you toward deeper purpose, richer joy, and a life that reflects who you’re becoming in Christ. This episode is your invitation to realign, to rise, and to walk boldly into the next season He’s preparing for you. Today, we’re talking about building a life that actually lasts. Not one built on hustle or striving, but on wholeness. Not juggling a million things, but living with joy and intention. Because this next chapter? It’s not about chasing titles or collecting trophies. It’s about showing up—fully, faithfully—for what truly matters. Timestamps: (05:30) - Your Legacy Isn’t Someday: It’s Being Built Right Now (06:25) - Your Calling Grows & Evolves as You Grow (07:49) - The Healthiest Leaders Prioritize Their Peace (09:03) - 5 Simple, Actionable Steps to Start Building Your Legacy This Week   WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE     Links to great things we discussed:    Alli’s Product Recommendation - Bug Bite Thing   I hope you loved this episode! 🎉 Don't forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you’re always in the loop. And hey, while you're at it, why not pop over to our YouTube channel and check us out? If you're feeling the love, leave a review and sprinkle some stars—your support truly means the world to me! Take care, and keep shining bright!    xo,   Alli

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days   I am so excited to kick off our new health and wellness series with someone who’s become a true favorite around here – Dr. Vonda Wright. If you caught our January episode, you already know she’s a powerhouse. And let’s be honest, one conversation with her just wasn’t enough.   Dr. Wright is a nationally renowned orthopedic surgeon and a trailblazer in the science of aging well. Her wisdom has radically transformed the way I think about my health, and I know she’s going to do the same for you.   Every time we talk, I walk away feeling more informed, more empowered, and honestly, more fired up to take care of myself. Dr. Wright doesn’t just treat symptoms—she teaches women how to live strong, vibrant, energized lives in midlife and beyond.    In part one of our conversation, we’re diving deep into what it really takes to thrive as we age. We’re talking longevity science, why building muscle is absolutely essential (spoiler: it’s not just about looking good), and how getting your hormones in check can be a total game-changer.   If you’re ready to make the second half of life your most powerful chapter yet, this episode is for you. Let’s do this together.    Timestamps: (02:33) - Why Aging Is the Wake-Up Call We Can’t Ignore (06:00) - Dr. Vonda’s Honest Journey Through Perimenopause (11:26) - The Right Way to Get the Calcium Your Body Needs (15:30) - What Every Woman Needs to Know About DEXA Scans (16:28) - The Silent Biological Time Bombs That Hijack Our Health in Our 40s   WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE   I hope you loved this episode! 🎉Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss a thing. And guess what? We're on YouTube! If you're loving the content, show us some love by leaving a review and giving us some stars—it means the world to me! Take care, and stay fabulous!    xo,   Alli

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days    Let’s start with a truth that might shake up everything you’ve been taught: You were never created to move your body just to take up less space. I know—it’s radical in a culture that worships “smaller,” but it’s time we unlearn that noise and step into something better. Today, we’re flipping the script on movement. Because let’s be real—too often, it’s been sold to us as punishment. As a way to earn worth or chase perfection. But that’s not God’s heart for you. What if movement wasn’t about shrinking, but about celebrating? About stepping into your God-given strength, owning your energy, and living fully present in the body He designed for you? This episode is all about reclaiming movement—not to fix yourself, but to honor who you already are. It’s a fresh perspective that’ll shift how you move, why you move, and how you show up in your life with boldness and joy. Timestamps: (00:57) - How to Reclaim Movement as a Source of Joy, Not Judgment (02:30) -The Surprising Power of Shifting How We See Movement (04:47) --8 Mindset Shifts That Quiet the Shame and Transform Your Daily Life (10:14) - Start Small, Show Up Daily, and Watch It Add Up (12:06) - Why Strength (Not Size) Should Be Your New Measure of Success WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE   Links to great things we discussed:    Alli’s Product Recommendation - Fabric Resistance Bands Don't forget to sign up for one of Alli's FREE COACHING Calls! https://alliworthington.com/freecoaching  I hope you loved this episode! 🎉Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss a thing. And guess what? We're on YouTube! If you're loving the content, show us some love by leaving a review and giving us some stars—it means the world to me! Take care, and stay fabulous!    xo, Alli

The Uplift app is here! Try it free for 30 days   To close out Smart Girl Summer, I’m bringing you a powerhouse conversation that’ll change how you show up online. I’m sitting down with my brilliant coaching client and social media strategist extraordinaire, Abby Kuykendall, to spill the tea on what’s actually working—and what’s quietly crashing and burning.   Abby’s been deep in the trenches, testing strategies, experimenting with content, and navigating platforms like a pro. She’s here to give us the real scoop: what’s converting, what’s worth your time, and what you can finally stop stressing over.   So if social media has felt like a confusing mess lately, this episode is your permission slip to breathe, reset, and even rekindle your love for a platform you thought was dead to you. Clarity, confidence, and a whole lot of wisdom—this one’s a must-listen.   Timestamps: (0:57) - How Abby’s Social Media Journey Sparked a Business Breakthrough (03:16) - What’s Actually Working on Social Media Right Now (09:13) - Platform Breakdown: What You Need to Know Before You Post (11:37) - Why Abby’s Doubling Down on Pinterest and Facebook (and Seeing Results) (17:10) - Abby’s Process for Writing Her Book   WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE   Links to great things we discussed:    Abby’s Book Recommendation - Spiritual Gifts: Learn to Define and Utilize Your God-Given Gifts Abby’s TV Show Recommendation - Bosch Abby’s Skincare Recommendation - BYOMA Gel Cream Moisturizer   Don’t forget to sign up for one of Alli’s FREE COACHING Calls - https://alliworthington.com/freecoaching    I hope you loved this episode! 🎉Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss a thing. And guess what? We're on YouTube! If you're loving the content, show us some love by leaving a review and giving us some stars—it means the world to me! Take care, and stay fabulous!    xo,   Alli