If you want to ruin your business or personal brand, poor communication will do it faster than anything else. I was reminded of this twice in the last two weeks after dealing with two businesses that completely dropped the ball.
We talk so much about branding, marketing, messaging, social media strategy… but none of it matters if the actual experience people have with you doesn’t match the image you’re projecting.
Whether you run a business brand or your personal brand (yes, we all have a personal brand), your reputation is being shaped every single day, by how well (or how poorly) you communicate.
It doesn’t take much to damage trust:
A missed message
A last-minute cancellation
A lack of clarity
Not following through
Silence when someone is expecting a response
These may seem small, but they add up…and they can wreak havoc on your brand faster than any marketing strategy can fix it.
So let’s talk about how to protect the thing that runs your career, your relationships, and your opportunities: your reputation.
Below are 7 things NOT to do if you want a personal brand that leaves a long-lasting, positive impact.
7 Things NOT To Do If You Want a Strong Personal Brand
1. Don’t disappear or go silent.
Ghosting someone is the worst, nothing kills trust faster than a lack of communication. Even if you don’t have an answer yet, say so. Silence creates frustration, assumptions, and doubt, and it just doesn’t feel good.
2. Don’t overpromise and then underdeliver.
It’s better to be honest and realistic than overly ambitious and inconsistent. Your word matters. People remember reliability.
3. Don’t ignore boundaries (yours or theirs).
If you respond at all hours, accept every request, or say yes when you mean no…you’re setting up a pattern that eventually breaks down. Boundaries show self-respect and build respect from others.
4. Don’t be vague, unclear, or confusing.
Clear communication = clear expectations. Unclear communication leaves people guessing, and guessing rarely works in your favor.
5. Don’t delay resolving issues.
Avoiding a problem doesn’t make it go away, it makes it bigger. Address mistakes, misunderstandings, or complaints quickly and professionally.
6. Don’t forget the follow-up.
Following up shows professionalism, dependability, and care. People notice when you remember them. They also notice when you don’t.
7. Don’t treat people differently based on what you can gain.
Your brand is built on how you treat people when no one’s watching and when you think there’s nothing in it for you. Kindness and integrity always pay off…often in ways you don’t see immediately.
Food For Thought
A great personal brand isn’t built through perfection — it’s built through consistency.
Consistent communication
Consistent integrity
Consistent follow-through
Your reputation is working for you or against you every single day. Make it work for you by choosing to show up with clarity, honesty, and professionalism in every interaction.
Have you had a bad experience due to poor communication? How have you dealt with it? Drop a comment and share your tips.
I was talking to a friend today — another serial overthinker whose name shall remain confidential (we’ll call her Nancy to protect her identity 😉).
Nancy and I were working on customer follow-ups when we both had an aha moment: shorter, more authentic communication is better for the customer and better for us. And yet… there we were, overthinking it to death. Sound familiar?
Let’s be real — overthinking is exhausting. You replay conversations, second-guess your ideas, delay decisions, and procrastinate on important stuff because… what if it’s not perfect? Cue the sigh. Overthinking feels productive, but it’s actually a master thief — stealing your clarity, confidence, and energy.
Worse? It feeds right into imposter syndrome. So really, what are we doing?!
It’s the fast track to paralysis analysis — too many options, too much pressure, and very little action.
But here’s the truth bomb: 👉 You don’t need more information. You need more self-trust. And trust doesn’t come from being perfect — it comes from taking messy, meaningful action.
So let’s break the cycle and talk about how to get out of your head and back into alignment.
Why We Overthink:
Fear of failure – We just want to get it right.
Imposter syndrome – We doubt we’re enough.
Perfectionism – We think every move must be flawless.
People pleasing – We’re afraid of disappointing others.
Spoiler alert: Overthinking doesn’t protect us — it just keeps us stuck.
🔥 The antidote? Think less. Trust more.
10 Pro Tips to Overcome Overthinking + Trust Yourself More
Name the Fear Get real with yourself: what are you actually afraid of? Naming it takes away its power. Write it down. Say it out loud. Shine a light on it. (Ugh, yes… totally me.)
Try the 5-5-5 Rule Ask: Will this matter in 5 days, 5 months, or 5 years? Spoiler: probably not. Let it go.
Set a 10-Minute Timer for Decisions Your gut usually knows. Give yourself a time limit, listen to your intuition, and go.
Shift from “What If” to “Even If” Swap “what if I fail?” for “even if I fail, I’ll learn and grow.” That’s where real confidence begins.
Take Imperfect Action Progress > perfection. Every time. People are surprisingly forgiving of imperfection when you’re being real.
Create a Daily “Get Unstuck” Ritual Walk. Meditate. Dance. Journal. Pray. Voice-record your spiraling thoughts and play them back — they’ll usually sound way less scary than they feel.
Surround Yourself with Action-Takers Energy is contagious. Hang with people who move forward, trust themselves, and make bold choices. You’ll soak it up.
Cut the Info Overload More content doesn’t equal more clarity. Unfollow, unsubscribe, and tune back in to your own voice.
Anchor into Your Values Ask: Is this aligned with who I am and what matters to me? If yes — go. If no — pause.
Celebrate the Tiny Wins Confidence is built one decision at a time. Track the small stuff. Reflect weekly on what went right, not just what went sideways.
🌟 Bonus Tip: Stop using ChatGPT for EVERYTHING. Your voice matters. People want your words, your stories, your quirky brilliance. Use tools to enhance, not replace, your authenticity.
Final Thought
You’re not here to be perfect. You’re here to be real, honest, and brave. Overthinking won’t get you there — but aligned, imperfect action will.
So the next time you’re spiraling, pause and ask:
“What would I do if I trusted myself completely?”
Then… do that.
No need to go all in right away — pick a couple of tips to try and ease into the anti-overthinking life. Baby steps, my friend. That’s the vibe I’m going with.
I’d love to hear how you’re breaking the overthinking habit. Drop a comment, and let’s elevate each other.
I’ve hired and worked with many consultants over the course of my career, taken many leadership training classes, subscribed to podcasts, and read and highlighted pages in some of my favorite personal development books. But it turns out, my best life coaches have been at my side (and under my desk) this whole time. They have four legs, fur, and absolutely no understanding of personal space. NONE.
Meet Stanley and Stella — my rescue pups, my furry soulmates, and, as I’ve recently realized, my life coaches. They may not have diplomas and degrees, but they’ve got great insight. Their wisdom is simple, consistent, and always delivered with a tail wag…especially when treats are involved.
Masters of Presence Stanley doesn’t care about what happened yesterday. Stella isn’t worried about next Tuesday’s meeting. They are fully present. They remind me to stop overthinking, to notice the breeze on a walk, and to enjoy the moment I’m in. When we’re outside, they’re not scrolling, comparing, or planning. They’re living. That’s a lesson I didn’t know I needed.
Loyalty and Love, Unfiltered There is something grounding about coming home to a pair of dogs who act like you’ve been gone for years, even if it’s only been 20 minutes. I mean, seriously, they lose their minds! Their loyalty is unwavering. They remind me to nurture relationships that feel that steady and supportive. If your people don’t light up when you walk in the room, find the ones who do.
Boundaries Are Everything (except when it comes to personal space..then forget it) When Stanley is done for the day, he’s done. He doesn’t ask for permission to take a nap in a sunny corner of the room. He doesn’t feel guilty about rest. He plays hard and rests harder. Stella, on the other hand, has a clear internal clock. She knows when it’s time to pause and when it’s time to move. Lesson learned: rest is productive. Recharge like your well-being depends on it — because it does.
No Overthinking Allowed (this is a big one, guys!) Dogs don’t spiral. They don’t get imposter syndrome or anxiety over what someone meant by “see you soon,” or “k.” They show up exactly as they are. Stella walks into a room like she owns it (and let’s be real, she does). That kind of confidence is contagious. She teaches me to stop second-guessing and start trusting my gut.
Here’s another life lesson…sometimes when someone says “k” or “see you soon” that’s all it means. Nothing else…just acknowledgement. Let’s try to keep that in check. We don’t have to overanalyze every. single. thing. Dogs sure don’t!
Consistency Is Queen (and King) Walks, meals, treats, and bedtime routines — dogs thrive on structure. And when I stick to a rhythm with them, I thrive too. They’ve taught me that consistency doesn’t mean boring; it means steady growth, predictable peace, and sustainable habits. Showing up daily (even for a walk around the block) is more powerful than waiting for the “perfect” moment.
So,What If We Took a Page from Their Playbook?
Stanley and Stella don’t need apps, calendars, or vision boards. They just need love, movement, rest, and purpose. And maybe some peanut butter. They remind me that being present, showing love, setting boundaries, trusting myself, minding my business, and staying consistent are more than just life lessons — they’re a lifestyle.
My final lesson today? Technically, I’m the one holding the leash—but when it comes to life lessons, they’re leading the pack. 😉
Make Moves, Live Boldly!
Denise xo
**Got a furry life coach of your own? Drop their name and best lesson below!
Aging is inevitable—but how we age is in our hands. The choices we make today shape how we feel, move, and thrive in the years ahead. I wish I knew at thirty, what I know today, but don’t we all?!
That’s why I’m deeply passionate about fresh air, strength training, good nutrition, community, and the power of ingestible peptides—five wellness pillars that have transformed my own approach to aging and vitality.
Wellness as the Foundation for Healthy Aging
True wellness goes beyond just looking good—it’s about feeling strong, energized, and resilient as we experience life’s stages. Our bodies are constantly changing, and prioritizing wellness isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for successful long-term health.
The Hidden Danger of Being “Skinny Fat”
Have you ever heard someone say they don’t need to focus on nutrition or exercise because they’re naturally thin? Many people focus solely on weight when assessing their health, but body composition matters more than the number on the scale. Studies have shown that people with low muscle mass but higher fat percentage—often referred to as “skinny fat”—face increased risks of metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, and early aging (Medical News Today). YES, READ THAT AGAIN!
This is why strength training and proper nutrition are crucial, not just for aesthetics but for long-term health and longevity.
Fresh Air: A Natural Reset for Mind and Body
There’s something deeply rejuvenating about stepping outside, breathing in fresh air, and moving your body. Whether it’s a walk in nature, a morning run, or simply soaking in the sun, fresh air: ☀️ Reduces stress and enhances mental clarity ☀️ Supports cardiovascular health ☀️ Boosts immune function
Nature has a way of reminding us to slow down, reset, and reconnect with our well-being. Nature’s benefits are highly under utilized in our healthcare system (in my opinion). If you look at other countries, it’s very common to be prescribed 30-60 minutes daily of fresh air, sunshine, and movement. I believe this is an area we can vastly improve upon, so here’s your nudge…grab your sneakers or hiking boots, and get outside!
Strength Training: The Anti-Aging Secret
Muscle loss is one of the biggest challenges of aging, but it’s not inevitable.Ladies, this is a big one! Strength training is one of the most powerful ways to preserve muscle, boost metabolism, and protect bone health. Incorporating resistance training into your routine can: 💪🏼 Increase strength and mobility 💪🏼 Reduce the risk of injury and osteoporosis 💪🏼 Support hormone balance and longevity
Lifting weights isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about maintaining independence, energy, and resilience as we age. If you don’t know where to start in the gym, hire a trainer/coach.
**Let me know if you need help, I know a lot of fitness pros who can help you get started, online or in-person.
Good Nutrition: Fueling Longevity from the Inside Out
What we eat plays a massive role in how we age. Food isn’t just fuel—it’s information for our cells. A diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods can: 🥗 Support gut health and digestion 🥗 Provide essential vitamins and minerals for cellular repair 🥗 Reduce inflammation and slow down aging
Prioritizing lean proteins (super important), healthy fats, fiber-rich vegetables, and antioxidant-packed foods helps our bodies function optimally, keeping us energized and resilient.
Ingestible Peptides: A Game-Changer for Cellular Health
One of the most exciting breakthroughs in wellness is the power of bioactive precision peptides.
Exciting research is underway exploring how bioactive precision peptides can support cancer patients, as well as individuals with chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Scientists are also investigating their potential in areas like gut health, muscle preservation, and overall cellular regeneration.
These potent compounds support cellular function, helping to: 🌱 Boost collagen productionfor skin, hair, and joints 🌱 Enhance muscle recovery and performance 🌱 Support weight loss, immune function, and overall vitality
Since incorporating peptides into my routine, I’ve experienced noticeable changes in my energy, recovery, and overall well-being. I’ve seen firsthand how they help with muscle retention, skin elasticity, and overall resilience—things that become even more important as we age.
This was one of the biggest reasons why I partnered with the groundbreaking company Make Wellness and launched a business helping others find solutions that are effective, science-backed, plant-based, and affordable. I truly believe that aging well shouldn’t be complicated or expensive—it should be accessible to everyone who wants to feel stronger, healthier, and more vibrant.
Whether you’re looking to improve athletic recovery, support your skin and joints, or simply feel better in your daily life, these peptides can be a game-changer. If you’re curious about how they work or if they’re right for you, I’d love to share more about my experience!
Power of Community in Wellness
Wellness isn’t just about what we eat, how we move, or the supplements we take—it’s also about the people we surround ourselves with. The saying, “you are who you surround yourself with” is absolutely true. Having a strong, supportive community can make all the difference in staying motivated, accountable, and inspired on our health journeys.
🫶 Encouragement & Support – Being part of a like-minded group can push you to stay consistent and celebrate your wins, no matter how small. 🫶 Knowledge & Resources – The right community can introduce you to new wellness strategies, expert insights, and shared experiences that help you grow. 🫶 Connection & Purpose – Feeling connected to others improves mental well-being, reduces stress, and reminds us that we’re not alone in our challenges.
That’s why I’m so passionate about creating a space where people can come together, share their wellness journeys, and lift each other up. Whether it’s through Make Wellness, Instagram, or my women’s group in Facebook, I love seeing people find strength—not just in their bodies, but in the relationships they build along the way.
At the end of the day, wellness isn’t just about aging well—it’s about living well, together. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you, and remind you that you’re capable of incredible things.
The Bottom Line: Invest in Your Future Self
Aging doesn’t have to mean decline—it can mean strength, vitality, and longevity. By prioritizing fresh air, strength training, good nutrition, strong communities, and the power of ingestible peptides, we can take control of how we age and live with energy and purpose.
Wellness is an investment in your future. Are you making yourself a priority today?
In a world that rewards comfort and routine, disruptors are the ones rewriting the rules. They challenge outdated systems, innovate where others settle, and redefine success on their own terms. They don’t wait for change—they create it.
So, are you playing it safe, or are you ready to disrupt (a question I often ask myself)?
What It Means to Be a Disruptor
Being a disruptor doesn’t mean causing chaos for the sake of it. It means thinking differently, taking bold action, and refusing to accept limitations. Disruptors don’t ask for permission to succeed. They carve their own paths and, in doing so, inspire others to follow.
The Disruptor’s Playbook: 5 Ways to Shake Up the Status Quo
Want to break free (like me) from the norm and make an impact? Here’s how:
1. Challenge the Standard Thinking
Just because something has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the best way, and honestly, nothing annoys me more than to hear “but, we’ve always done it that way.” ALWAYS question the norm. Look at your industry, career, or personal life and ask, What could be better? What’s missing? Disruptors don’t accept “good enough”—they push for better.
2. Take Risks Others Won’t
Most people hesitate when faced with uncertainty. Disruptors see risk as opportunity. Whether it’s launching a new venture, pivoting careers, or speaking up about an issue, they lean into discomfort and bet on themselves.
3. Show Up Unapologetically
The world tries to fit people into neat little boxes. Disruptors break them. They build personal brands, businesses, and movements by being authentically themselves—even when it goes against the grain.
4. Surround Yourself with Bold Thinkers
Your circle influences your mindset. Want to think bigger? Connect with people who challenge and inspire you. Join communities of innovators, follow thought leaders, and engage in conversations that push your limits. A great way to start? Listen to disruptors in action.
🎙️ Podcasts for Disruptors:
The Counter Life Podcast – Conversations with entrepreneurs and small business owners making an impact and rewriting the rules in their industries. (shameless plug here)
The Ed Mylett Show– High-performance strategies from some of the most successful disruptors in business, sports, and entertainment.
Most people overthink, wait for the “right time,” and stay stuck in planning mode. STOP WAITING!Disruptors execute. They don’t wait for approval; they make moves and adjust along the way. The key to disruption isn’t just thinking differently—it’s acting on it.
The Game Changers: Famous Disruptors Who Redefined Success
Need proof that disruption leads to greatness? Look at these innovators who shattered expectations:
🔥 Elon Musk – Transformed the auto and space industries with Tesla and SpaceX, proving electric cars and private space travel weren’t just ideas—they were the future.
🔥 Oprah Winfrey – Broke barriers in media, redefining what was possible for women and people of color in television and beyond.
🔥 Steve Jobs – Changed how we interact with technology by making design, functionality, and innovation inseparable.
🔥 Sara Blakely – Turned $5,000 and a simple idea into Spanx, revolutionizing an industry that doubted her.
🔥 Brené Brown – Disrupted traditional leadership thinking by proving vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Want to Think Like a Disruptor? Start Reading
📚 Books That Will Change How You See Success
Be the One– Justin Prince → A powerful book on mindset, leadership, and stepping into your full potential.
The 10X Rule – Grant Cardone → Why thinking bigger and taking massive action is the only way to dominate.
Dare to Lead– Brené Brown → Leadership through courage, authenticity, and vulnerability.
The Hard Thing About Hard Things – Ben Horowitz → The unfiltered truth about entrepreneurship and leadership in disruptive times.
Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill → A timeless classic on success, wealth, and breaking limitations.
🎧 You’re going to want to carve out 15-minutes, and grab your airpods to listen to this wisdom. 🎧
One of the most iconic disruptors of our time, Steve Jobs, shared his perspective on innovation and resilience in his 2005 Stanford Commencement Address—a speech that has since gained over 45 million views on YouTube. In this heartfelt talk, Jobs recounts pivotal moments in his life, from dropping out of college to launching Apple, getting fired, and coming back stronger than ever. His advice—“Stay hungry, stay foolish”—is a call to action for anyone looking to challenge the status quo and make a real impact. Watch the speech below and ask yourself: How can you think differently?
Disrupt or Be Disrupted: It’s Your Move
The world doesn’t wait for people to step up—you have to choose to make an impact.
💡 What’s one way you can disrupt the norm in your life or business today? Drop a comment and let’s talk about it.
As a small business owner who knows a lot of entrepreneurs and fellow business owners, I’ve always admired the hustle it takes to build something from the ground up. But recently, I had a humbling realization—I never really thought about the people behind the scenes, doing the work that many wouldn’t even consider a business.
While recovering from ankle surgery, I needed help with a not-so-glamorous task—removing dog waste from my yard. Let’s be real: most people wouldn’t jump at the chance to do that job. But I found a guy who not only runs a dog waste removal business but also trims trees on the side. This is definitely not something I’ve thought about in the entrepreneurial realm, but “John” is absolutely an entrepreneur who is building a successful business with extreme pride, humility, and a great sense of humor! And guess what? He’s making serious money.
It got me thinking about how we often dismiss certain jobs as “beneath” us or unworthy of consideration. We assume that success only comes in sleek offices, high-profile careers, or trending side hustles. But the reality? Some of the most successful businesses are built on the jobs that many wouldn’t even consider.
Here’s a great quote from Mike Rowe, the host of Dirty Jobs, who has spent years highlighting hardworking entrepreneurs who built successful businesses from labor-intensive work:
“Happiness does not come from a job. It comes from knowing what you truly value and behaving in a way that’s consistent with those beliefs.”– Mike Rowe
Think about it—trash collection, cleaning services, mobile car detailing, power washing. These aren’t jobs people dream about as kids, but they are industries where entrepreneurs are thriving, building wealth, and creating legacies.
The moral of the story? Don’t be too quick to turn our nose up at an opportunity. The thing we think is “too small” or “not worth it” might just be someone else’s path to financial freedom. The key isn’t what we do—it’s how well we do it, how we scale it, and how we serve a need.
So before dismissing a side hustle as “not good enough,” remember: someone out there is making a killing doing it. And they’re laughing all the way to the bank.
Do you have an idea of something you’d like to turn into a side hustle? Let’s talk about it in the comments!
Building Wellness and Connection, One Story at a Time
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here.
For a while now, I’ve been craving a space beyond the scroll of social media and the pace of work… a place to share stories that are both meaningful to me and valuable to others. In a world that often feels overwhelming, I believe we all need more connection, encouragement, and a little lightness.
Beyond the Hustle is where ambition meets alignment. It’s about creating a life that feels as good as it looks—one rooted in wellness, growth, and authenticity. It’s for those of us who believe in showing up fully, but also slowing down enough to enjoy the view.
A little about me: I’m a wife and mom of three, a dog lover (hi, Stella and Stanley!), an entrepreneur running a digital marketing agency, a new podcaster, and a passionate wellness advocate. I’m also an avid hiker, trail runner, and fitness enthusiast who believes wellness is a lifestyle—not a look.
After years in the corporate world—working in marketing across nonprofit, human resources, and speaker management—I took the leap into entrepreneurship. I loved those chapters, but after navigating corporate shakeups and the unpredictability of the pandemic, I realized I wanted to write my own story. Now, I help entrepreneurs and small business owners build their brands with purpose, and I’m honored to grow right alongside them.
This blog is part passion project, part wellness journal, part real-life reminder that we can thrive—beyond the hustle.
What You’ll Find Here
Beyond the Hustle is your go-to hub for: ✨ Entrepreneurship & Business – Lessons from my journey and insights. ✨ Wellness & Mindset – Real talk about balance, self-care, and empowering women. ✨ Lifestyle & Personal Growth – Navigating family, passions, amazing eats, and everyday life with intention. ✨ Community & Connection – A place for real conversations, shared experiences, and mutual encouragement.
Whether you’re a fellow entrepreneur, a wellness seeker, a woman seeking community, or simply someone looking for inspiration beyond the daily grind, you’re in the right place.
Let’s Stay Connected
I’d love to hear your thoughts, experiences, stories, and ideas for topics. Drop a comment, follow me on Instagram and Facebook, and let’s navigate this journey together.
Thanks for being here—now let’s go beyond the hustle!!
Beyond the Hustle 
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