There used to be a narrative about turning 50…one that whispered words like slowing down, playing it safe, acting your age, and starting the decline.
But here’s the truth no one prepared us for: Today’s 50+ women (and men) are rewriting the entire script.
We’re not shrinking. We’re expanding. We’re not fading out. We’re stepping into our power with more clarity, courage, and conviction than ever before.
If you’re in your 50s (or approaching them) and feel stronger, wiser, and more “you” than you did in your 30s or 40’s, welcome. You’re part of the new wave of powerful women redefining what midlife really looks like.
We’re Not Our Parents’ 50 — And We Never Will Be
Our mothers and grandmothers didn’t have the science, the tools, or the language we have today.
They didn’t talk openly about:
Building muscle as a necessity for longevity
Strength training for bone health
Hormones, metabolism, and recovery
Personalized wellness
Reinventing careers at 50
Owning their voice
Starting new passions and projects
But we do. And we’re using all of it.
Today’s 50+ woman is:
Running trails, hiking mountains, lifting weights, and taking solo vacations around the world
Prioritizing mobility, muscle, and metabolic health
Investing in financial freedom and building businesses
Taking rest seriously
Setting boundaries unapologetically
Choosing peace over pressure
Refusing to play small
We’re not chasing youth, we’re chasing our potential.
The Power of Bioactive Peptides in the 50+ Era
Let’s be honest: aging today isn’t just mindset. It’s science-backed, too.
Peptides have become one of the most powerful tools women in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond are using to:
Boost metabolism
Improve body composition
Support energy
Build and maintain lean muscle
Enhance recovery
Balance hormones
Improve sleep and reduce inflammation
When I started peptides, it wasn’t about looking younger… it was about supporting my future self. The one who wants to run with dogs, chase big ideas, live active, be independent, say yes to adventure, and have the strength to do it for decades.
They’ve become part of my longevity toolkit…not a magic fix, but a strategic support for how I want to ageforward, not backward.
If you’re curious about peptides or want guidance on where to start (Let’s talk!), this is the time to lean into education and community instead of guessing alone.
Aging With Intention, Not Limitation
Today’s 50+ is bold. Curious. Expansive. Driven. Soft in the right places and strong in all the places that matter.
We’re not defined by age. We’re defined by the choices we make in this season:
✨ Choosing muscle ✨ Choosing nourishment ✨ Choosing mental clarity ✨ Choosing movement ✨ Choosing purpose-driven work ✨ Choosing friendships that fuel us ✨ Choosing joy ✨ Choosing to stop apologizing for taking up space
We are not “over the hill.” We ARE the hill — and we’re climbing it with strength, stamina, and a fire that refuses to burn out.
Here’s a Journal Prompt for You This Week.
“What do I want the next decade of my life to feel like, and what choices can I start making today to support that version of me?”
Sit with it. Write freely. Be honest with yourself.
The answers may surprise you, and they may just shift your entire direction.
Your next chapter is calling, loudly. And it’s going to be your strongest one yet.
Every year, the holiday season sneaks up on us faster than we think. One minute it’s pumpkin spice latte’s and cozy sweaters… and the next, you’re surrounded by office candy bowls, holiday parties, rich dinners, extra cocktails, and endless baked goods.
It’s fun…until it’s not.
Because here’s the truth: Most people enter the holidays with zero strategy. No plan. No boundaries. No support system.
And that’s when things start to unravel.
Gym sessions get skipped. Late nights become the norm. Energy plummets. Healthy habits fade.
And by the time January 1st arrives, instead of feeling refreshed, most people feel frustrated, facing the dreaded holiday weight gain (fact: the average person gains up to 10 pounds…yikes!).
But this year CAN be different.
You can enjoy the holidays. You can stay consistent. You can go into January feeling strong, not defeated.
All you need is a plan.
The No. 1 Reason People Struggle During the Holidays: They Don’t Have a Plan
When you don’t have a plan, the season controls you. When you do have a plan, you stay in control.
A good holiday plan doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to be intentional and realistic.
Below is a simple structure you can start using today.
🎄 Your Holiday Survival Plan
1. Non-Negotiables (Pick 3)
These are the habits you protect no matter what. Choose three and commit.
Examples:
30 minutes of movement 4–5 days a week
A protein-focused first meal
Water before every holiday drink
8,000–10,000 steps
No “grazing” on office candy bowls
Lights out by 10pm on weeknights
These anchor you during the chaos.
2. Pre-Plan Your Weak Spots
Look at your next 6-8 weeks:
Office parties
Family dinners
Travel
Cookie swaps
Social events
Then decide ahead of time:
What will you eat first? (Hint: protein + veggies)
How many drinks will you have?
Will you walk before or after the event?
Decisions made before the moment equal better outcomes in the moment.
3. Use Supportive Tools (This Is Where Peptides Come In…and, I swear by them)
You don’t have to rely on willpower alone, especially during the most tempting season of the year.
Bioactive peptidesoffer science-backed support to help your body stay balanced, energized, and regulated.
✅ Lean — “Nature’s Ozempic”
Controls cravings, steadies appetite, and reduces overeating triggers.
✅ Hydrated — All-Day Electrolyte + Hydration Support
Winter = dehydration. Hydrated keeps your energy steady and inflammation down.
✅ Fit — Daily Metabolic + NAD+ Support
Boosts energy, lowers cortisol, and supports recovery, exactly what your body needs during holiday stress.
Together, these three give you:
Less inflammation
Better metabolic balance
Fewer cravings
More energy
Better hydration
Controlled stress response
A huge advantage during a season of indulgence.
4. Build Your Week Around Movement (Not the Other Way Around)
Instead of “fitting in workouts,” schedule them first:
Sample weekly structure:
2 strength training sessions
1 conditioning/cardio session
2 walks (30–45 minutes)
Optional: 1 recovery day (stretching or yoga)
Movement keeps your metabolism active and your mindset strong.
5. Create a Few Go-To Holiday Strategies
Here are simple, doable tools:
✅ Before a party:
Drink a full glass of water
Eat protein at home
Take Lean to avoid overeating
✅ At the party:
1 plate — no grazing (so take only what you really want)
Start with protein & veggies
Alternate alcohol with Hydrated (another fave is sparkling water with a splash of cranberry)
✅ The day after:
Walk 20–30 minutes
Hydrated in the morning
Prioritize protein
Get back to routine (no guilt spiral!)
These tiny habits prevent big regrets.
You Can Enjoy the Holidays AND Feel Good In Your Body
You don’t have to choose between fun and health. You just need a strategy that supports both.
With a simple plan, supportive habits, and game-changing tools like Fit, Lean,andHydrated, you can:
✅ stay in control ✅ feel energized ✅ stay consistent ✅ reduce stress ✅ avoid holiday weight gain ✅ hit January feeling READY
Don’t wait until New Year’s to get serious. Start now, and let this be the season you thrive, not just survive.
Ready to Go Into the Holidays With a Plan That Actually Works?
If you want support staying consistent, energized, and in control this season, the Muscle + Metabolic Collection is your holiday advantage.
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to share something personal I’ve been learning to navigate—social anxiety.
You might be surprised to hear that from me. I show up, I work hard, I’m driven, I create, I share—and I’m often seen as an extrovert. But behind the highlight reels and daily hustle, there are moments when anxiety creeps in—quietly and powerfully.
❗My anxiety has kept me from joining group runs I genuinely wanted to attend. ❗It’s made me cancel meetings I’d already prepped for. ❗It’s convinced me to skip the gym on days I knew I needed movement. ❗It’s even stopped me from nourishing and hydrating my body when I needed it most.
Social anxiety doesn’t always look like panic—it can look like silence, avoidance, or simply staying small. And if you’ve ever felt that tug-of-war between wanting to show up and feeling frozen by anxiety, you are so not alone.
The Myth of “All or Nothing”
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is this: life doesn’t have to be all or nothing. ♥️ We can go hard and be soft. ♥️ We can chase goals and take breaks. ♥️ We can lead boldly and still need support.
I haven’t perfected the balance (who has?), but I’m committed to striving for it daily.
What’s Helped Me: From “Just Deal With It” to Calm
For years, I just “dealt with it.” I tried gummies, mild meds, and self-talk that didn’t quite stick. Some days were okay. Some were really hard.
Then I found Calm—a simple, all-natural powder that dissolves on your tongue and gently takes the edge off, without making me feel foggy or tired. It works with your body, not against it.
It’s like a warm hug in the middle of chaos. I take it before meetings, workouts, or whenever I need a reset—but my favorite time is in the evening. It’s been a game-changer.
If you’re navigating stress or social anxiety, I encourage you to explore what works for you. And if you’re curious about Calm—or just want to chat about the real, unfiltered stuff—I’m here.
Mamas, I See You
My kids are grown now, but I still remember the pressure that came with summer break—keeping everyone busy, managing the chaos, and trying to hold it all together.
If the thought of it already has you feeling stretched thin, you’re not alone.
And if you’re looking for a natural way to stay grounded and ease into the whirlwind of summer, Calm might be exactly what you need.
A study released this month by Columbia University found that 75% of mothers in the U.S. experience some form of mental or physical health challenge. That stat? It’s real—and it’s a reminder that we need tools and support, not just grit.
A Few Resources for Social Anxiety
Because I believe in offering support beyond the scroll, here are a few resources I trust:
Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA):adaa.org – Tools, support groups, and therapist directories.
Mindfulness Apps:Insight Timer, Headspace, and Calm (the app, not the supplement!) all offer free meditations for anxiety.
Books:
The Anxiety Toolkit by Dr. Alice Boyes
How to Be Yourself by Ellen Hendriksen
You Are Not Alone
Mental health isn’t a moment—it’s a movement. Whether you’re feeling on top of the world or struggling to leave the house, your experience is valid.
Give yourself grace. Ask for help. Explore what balance looks like for you.
🎁 A Special Gift for My Blog Readers 🎁
If Calm sounds like the kind of support you’ve been looking for, I’ve got something just for you.
As a thank-you for being part of this community, when you order Calm through me, I’ll gift you 7 days of Focused—absolutely FREE.
Why? Because I believe in balance. When we feel calm and clear, we can show up as our best selves—in life, work, and everything in between.
👉 Click here to place your order. Once it comes through, I’ll personally send Focused your way—no strings, just support, and I’ll cover postage!
And don’t forget to visit my Wellness page to learn more about the power of bioactive precision peptides and why everyone’s buzzing about them.
Let’s keep this conversation going—even after May. Because our mental health matters every month. 💚
Alright, guys… this might be your cue to exit stage left — no hard feelings. 😉
Now, for the rest of us…. Let’s talk about something few of us are or were truly prepared for — menopause. It often arrives unannounced and unapologetic, like a full-force shift you never saw coming. It’s physical, emotional, hormonal — and honestly? A little disorienting.
But here’s the reframe: This isn’t just a phase to “get through.” It’s a powerful opportunity to reconnect with our bodies, shift our mindset, and redefine how we show up for ourselves — stronger, more aware, and in control.
The Phases: What You Didn’t Learn in Health Class (at least not in my health class)
Menopause isn’t just one moment — it’s a transition that unfolds in stages:
Perimenopause (often begins in your 40s): Irregular periods, hot flashes, mood shifts, and sleep disturbances.
Menopause (official when you’ve gone 12 months without a period): A hormonal shift that can affect everything from metabolism to brain fog.
Postmenopause (after the 12-month mark): Symptoms may ease, but risks like bone density loss and heart health become more relevant.
The truth? Every body experiences this differently. But you’re not alone — and you don’t have to just “deal with it.” AND, if your doctor tells you to deal with it, run, don’t walk and find a new OBGYN.
How to Stay Strong (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)
Menopause can feel like your body is working against you. Fatigue, weight gain, muscle loss — all real. But here’s the empowering truth: you can take back control with doable, consistent habits that support your strength and vitality.
✨Strength Training Is Non-Negotiable
As estrogen levels drop, muscle mass and bone density decline — making resistance training essential. Lifting weights 2–4 times per week helps:
Boost metabolism
Support joint and bone health
Improve mood and cognitive function
You don’t need a fancy gym. Dumbbells, resistance bands, or even bodyweight circuits can build major strength.
Walking remains one of the most accessible forms of movement — but adding a weighted vest ups the ante:
Increases calorie burn
Builds bone strength
Improves cardiovascular endurance It’s also gentle on the joints and a great way to clear your mind.
✨Connect with Other Women in This Season
Menopause isn’t just physical — it’s deeply emotional. Community is medicine. Surrounding yourself with women who get it can:
Reduce feelings of isolation
Offer tips, resources, and honest conversation
Remind you that you’re not in this alone
Find a circle, group, or even a walking buddy. It matters.
✨The Power of Bioactive Peptides
If you’re looking to support your body from the inside out, bioactive peptides can be a game-changer. They help:
Improve collagen production (goodbye joint aches + skin dullness)
Weight management the natural way
Support lean muscle growth and recovery
Regulate inflammation and boost energy
Decrease mortality rates of all diseases
Think of peptides as your secret weapon for navigating this hormonal shift with more ease and vitality. (Head to the Wellness page to learn more about the power of peptides.)
Final Thoughts: This Isn’t the End — It’s a Reset
Menopause isn’t something to dread. It’s a powerful rite of passage — a chance to reimagine how you take care of your body, prioritize yourself, and define your next chapter.
Strong. Powerful. Clear. Connected. That’s the goal.
And remember: you’re allowed to rewrite the rules on what this season looks like — and feels like.
I took these photos on my 60th birthday, just a few short weeks ago. Why? To serve as a reminder—down the road—of who I am today.
Every face tells a story, and I thought I’d share mine… at least up to now.
As I look back and begin to write my story, I know it’s not about being better or worse than anyone else’s—it’s simply mine, just as yours is uniquely yours.
I was born in Chicago, IL, on March 25, 1965. My mother was only 16 years old—a baby herself. She married my father in an attempt to break the cycle of abuse and addiction that she had grown up in.
Unsurprisingly, the marriage didn’t last. They divorced, and my earliest memories are a patchwork of change—new towns, new schools, new faces. My uncle (my mother’s brother) always lived with us and often felt more like a brother than an uncle. He was always fun, but man, could we fight!
We moved a lot in those early years, and while that instability could have left me feeling lost, it sparked a deep resilience instead. I learned to adapt quickly, to read a room, to find my place—or make one—wherever I landed.
I grew up fast. There wasn’t much choice. My mom did the best she could, and I now understand the strength it must have taken just to keep going under the weight of her own unhealed wounds. I didn’t always understand her then, but I have deep compassion for her now.
That’s the thing about wisdom—it softens you. With time and perspective, you begin to see people and situations more clearly, with less judgment and more empathy.
My father died by suicide when I was still young. That kind of loss leaves a scar that never really fades—it just becomes part of who you are. And when I was 46, I lost my mother—she passed away at the age of 63. Far too soon. Losing both parents before I was even 50 left me with a kind of loneliness that’s hard to explain—but it also gave me a greater appreciation for life, for healing, and for showing up fully while we still have the time.
In many ways, my childhood taught me how to survive. But over the years, I’ve worked hard to do more than just survive—I’ve fought to thrive. And with each passing decade, I’ve become more of the woman I needed when I was a girl: grounded, self-aware, fiercely protective of my boundaries, and soft where it matters.
Turning 60 felt big—not because of the number, but because of the reflection it invited. These photos aren’t about vanity. They’re about honoring the journey: the laugh lines earned from joy and sorrow, the strength etched into my bones by years of doing the hard inner work, and the beautiful, undeniable truth that aging is a privilege.
I’m not finished writing my story. But now, I know—I’m the author, not just a character reacting to the plot. And I hope this encourages you—whether you’re 26 or 66—to embrace your own becoming. To celebrate the chapters you’ve already lived and to look ahead with hope and optimism to the ones still being written.
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?
Sixty years—a milestone that makes me pause and reflect on the journey that has brought me here. As I step into this new decade, my heart is filled with gratitude for the woman who shaped me, guided me, and loved me unconditionally: my mother.
From my earliest memories, my mother was the constant force in my life. My Northstar. She was my first teacher, my fiercest protector, and my greatest cheerleader. She taught me resilience when times were tough, grace when challenges seemed insurmountable, and kindness as the foundation of every interaction. Her lessons were never just words; they were actions—woven into the fabric of everyday life.
She showed me what strength looked like—not the loud or boastful kind, but the quiet, unwavering strength that gets up every morning, faces the world with determination, and gives selflessly to others. Whether it was late nights spent tending to me when I was sick, standing by my side during life’s difficult moments, or celebrating every small and big victory, she was always there.
My mother’s love was never conditional. It was steady, enduring, and boundless. She had an incredible way of making me feel that no matter what life threw my way, I would be okay because I had her belief in me. And that belief? It became the foundation for my own self-confidence, for the courage to chase my dreams, and for the wisdom to navigate life’s twists and turns.
Now, at sixty, I look back and realize how much of her is in me. The values she instilled, the love she gave, and the sacrifices she made—they are all etched into the person I have become. And though time has passed, her presence in my life remains just as strong, whether in memories, in the values I carry forward, or in the way I love those around me.
So this week, as I celebrate this milestone, I dedicate it to my mother. To her love, her lessons, and her legacy. Because without her, I would not be the person I am today. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Here’s to you, Mom—my guiding light, my heart, my home. Thank you for everything.
Have you ever been the target of a narcissist? If so, you know the mental gymnastics, the manipulation, and the relentless toxicity that come with it. If you haven’t—consider yourself lucky.
It wasn’t until later in my adult life and career that a narcissist quietly infiltrated my world. My narcissist disguised themselves as good, pure, loving, and honorable—a true chameleon. At first, it was all rainbows and butterflies—until, suddenly, I had no idea what hit me.
My fight-or-flight instinct kicked in, but instead of running, I looked around at others, who seemed fine, and thought, “It must be me.” (Ugh…a home run for the narcissist.)
The ironic part? The moment I started confiding in friends and family, they immediately said, “You’re dealing with a narcissist.” It wasn’t one big, obvious event—it was a slow, calculated unraveling. A series of tiny, almost imperceptible manipulations that built the foundation for something far more damaging.
Fortunately for me, our relationship ended abruptly. At first, I was in shock. But with time—and a lot of self-reflection—I finally felt something I hadn’t in a long time: I could breathe again.Really breathe.
I was recently talking to a friend about the crushing grip narcissists have on their victims and the slow surrender we unknowingly give them. It’s a psychological game—one designed to strip away your confidence and leave you questioning your reality. And escaping? That’s another battle entirely for so many.
Breaking free from a narcissist feels like emerging from a cult-like trance—your identity shaken to its core. Thank goodness for the self-help section on Amazon, podcasts, and therapy, right?!
The Narcissist’s Playbook: A Masterclass in Manipulation
At first, they charm you (This is known as the honeymoon phase.). They praise your work, admire your talents, and build you up—only to slowly chip away at your confidence. The gaslighting is subtle at first:
🌀 “I never said that.” (They did.) 🌀 “I’m sorry you feel that way.” (Zero accountability.) 🌀 “I’ve done so much for you, and it’s not appreciated.” (Lies.)
Before you know it, you’re walking on eggshells, second-guessing yourself, and questioning truths you once knew. That’s the toxicity of a narcissist—they LITERALLY rewrite reality to serve their ego.
The Fallout: Breaking Free from the Cycle
Realizing you’re in a narcissist’s grip feels like waking up from a nightmare you didn’t know you were trapped in. You start seeing the patterns, the control, the meanness, the manipulation—but getting out? That’s where the real fight begins, especially for those married to one (for the sake of my husband, I want to clarify that I’m not referring to him here).
Narcissists don’t let go easily. They crave control. They twist narratives, spread lies, and play the victim to maintain their power. And when you finally break free? They’ll do everything in their power to paint you as the villain.
The Lesson: Reclaiming Your Power
Here’s the good news—you learn. You recognize the red flags sooner. You set boundaries quicker and stronger. And most importantly, you take back your power!
If you’ve been through this, you’re not alone. The scars narcissists leave behind are real, but they’re also proof that you survived.
Want to Outsmart a Narcissist? Listen to This.
Mel Robbins has hosted remarkable guests who break down the psychology of narcissists—and, more importantly, how to break free from their grip. If you haven’t listened to “Outsmart a Narcissist: A Proven 4-Step Plan to Take Your Power Back,“ it’s a must, so grab your 🎧 headphones and listen with intention and purpose.
I listened to it on a hike—the place I go to find clarity. I’d love to know what you think after you listen to the full episode.
Have you ever dealt with a narcissist? Drop a comment or share your experience—because the more we talk about it, the more we reclaim our power, and the more we help others.
Make moves, live boldly!
2 responses to “Surviving a Narcissist: The Toxicity, The Chaos, and The Lessons”
Anonymous
You nailed it! Thanks for sharing and reminding us to assess all relationships. Life’s too short to spend time with the wrong people.
Thank you so much for reading my post, and I’m glad it resonated with you. For people who haven’t experienced this behavior it can take some time to realize what is happening in the relationship.
You know what I mean—the endless cycle of wanting, buying, and replacing before we’ve even used what we already have. Our culture measures success by how much we own, not by how wellthose things serve us. And before we even finish that “must-have” product, we’re already scrolling for the next big thing.
I personally believe social media fuels this obsession. The “hot” skincare product that promises miracles, the magic weight-loss pill, the jeans that flatter every body type—it’s all marketed as essential, and clearly, we can’t live without it.
Just the other day, I was scrolling and couldn’t help but notice how many ads flooded my feed. IYKYK. Not only is it annoying, but it’s also frustrating—because I barely see my friends’ posts unless I go searching for them. This wasn’t the original purpose of social media, was it?
The Shift Toward Intentional Consumption
In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, buy more, and consume more, choosing quality over quantity is an act of intentional living. Whether it’s the clothes we wear, the books we read, or the content we consume, being mindful about what we allow into our lives leads to more fulfillment, less clutter, and greater purpose.
Check out this great article from Live The Minimalist Lifestyle that breaks down how prioritizing quality over quantity can lead to more meaningful experiences, stronger relationships, and a healthier mindset. Sooo good!
I’ll be the first to admit: I’m working on this.
Take my body wash, for example. I’ve been guilty of buying a new one when the current bottle is still a third full—just to try something different. Not my proudest moment. As a nature lover, I care deeply about preserving the trails I travel, which means being aware of my carbon footprint. But let’s be real—buying “clean” products or sustainable brands doesn’t mean much if we’re still being wasteful.
So, no—I’m not sitting here on my high horse (or in my case, my couch with a broken ankle) judging everyone else. I’m writing this as much for me as I am for you. So, here we go!
3 Ways to Be More Conscientious About Quality Over Quantity
🌱 1. Press Pause Before You Purchase (eek! this is a tough one) Before you buy something, ask yourself:
Do I actually need this?
Is it well-made and built to last?
Am I buying out of habit, boredom, or pressure?
Try the 30-day rule (or even 15): If you still want it in a month, it’s likely a thoughtful purchase rather than an impulse buy.
🌱 2. Curate What You Consume Not just products—but content, too.
Follow accounts that add value, not just sell you something.
Choose books that challenge you instead of ones you’ll forget in a week.
Limit digital noise—unsubscribe, unfollow, delete what doesn’t serve you. (This one is HUGE!)
🌱 3. Embrace the Joy of Using What You Already Have There’s something incredibly satisfying about finishing a product before replacing it.
Rotate through your wardrobe instead of buying another trendy outfit.
Read the books on your shelf before adding new ones to your cart.
Find joy in appreciating what you own instead of chasing the next new thing.
The Power of Less, But Better
Choosing quality over quantity isn’t about deprivation—it’s about intention.
It’s about owning less but loving it more, consuming media that actually inspires you, and making purchases that truly add value. By shifting our mindset, we create space for more clarity, more purpose, and less clutter—physically and mentally.
So, what’s one area of your life where you’re trying to choose quality over quantity, and purchase with purpose? Let’s talk 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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