Control Is a Myth: What I Learned From a Business Flop

Dec 16, 2025

Discipline is redefined as a form of self-care, emphasizing effort over outcome. A tech mishap during a highly anticipated live class turns into a heartfelt lesson on letting go of control. The host shares insights on overthinking as a struggle for control and recounts the transformative mindset shift of viewing setbacks as opportunities. Listeners are encouraged to commit to consistent effort, regardless of circumstances, reminding us that everything happens for our growth.

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INSIGHT

Effort Is The Only Controllable Variable

You can control only your effort, not the outcome.
Letting go of control frees you to focus on consistent action.

ANECDOTE

Tech Failure During A Big Live Class

Jasmine Star prepared a no-pitch live class that thousands registered for and practiced relentlessly.
Minutes before going live, AWS and related tech failed, blocking attendees from accessing the class.

ADVICE

Reframe Setbacks As Practice Runs

When things go wrong, reframe the setback as a practice run and still show up.
Use imperfect moments as reps toward future larger stages rather than abandoning the work.

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Discipline isn’t about hustle or perfection—it’s a form of self-care. It’s believing in where you’re going, even when no one else sees it.

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on a business moment that broke my heart—one of my most anticipated classes flopped due to a major tech fail (thank you, AWS 😅). After weeks of preparation, thousands of registrations, and a heart-driven message I couldn’t wait to share… hardly anyone could access it.

It was devastating.

But it became a powerful lesson in letting go of control and focusing on what really matters: effort over outcome.

If you’ve ever asked, “Why is this happening?”—this episode is for you.

Because yes, things will go wrong in business. And yes, you’ll still be okay.

Click >>PLAY<< to hear all of this and:

[01:00] Why overthinking is really a desire for control (and why that never works)

[03:06] The origin of the class that “flopped” and why it was so personally meaningful

[04:06] Preparing like crazy for a no-pitch, heart-centered live event

[05:08] Tech goes down: the moment everything unraveled (and what I did next)

[06:30] The mindset shift that saved the day: “Everything happens for me”

[09:25] How this experience transformed how I show up—and why I’m still grateful

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For full show notes, visit jasminestar.com/podcast/episode605

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