261 - The Doors of Possibility – Living with the Gift of Maybe

The Doors of Possibility – Living with the Gift of Maybe
In this episode, I explore how uncertainty, instead of being our enemy, can actually be our greatest source of growth. Inspired by The Gift of Maybe by Allison Carmen, I reflect on how we can shift our mindset from fear and rigidity to curiosity and openness—one small step at a time.
I share a few tools that have changed my life, especially when facing uncertainty or big decisions. These aren’t complex frameworks but simple, powerful mental exercises that invite peace, clarity, and even joy into difficult or confusing situations.
Top Topics Discussed
The Door of Visualization
I explain how imagining life decisions as “doors” can give us clarity we didn’t even know we had. Our bodies often know what we want before our minds do. This tool helps us listen to that inner wisdom.
The Elevator of Maybe
When things feel overwhelming, this mental image of an elevator gives us a pause from overthinking. It’s a neutral space—where no assumptions exist—and it helps us return to the present moment.
Breaking the Routine with Small Shifts
Sometimes, it’s not about grand gestures. I share how changing my morning routine opened up more joy and freedom in my life. Tiny acts of “maybe” lead to massive internal change.
The Possibility Journal
I talk about how this tool helps track “what if” experiments in life, from trying new habits to breaking old thought patterns. It’s a gentle, low-pressure way to embrace growth.
Takeaways
The biggest takeaway from this episode is that we don’t need to have all the answers. Life is unpredictable. But within that unpredictability lies opportunity. When we stop catastrophizing and start experimenting—even a little—we invite transformation.
Fear is often loud, but it isn’t always true. Maybe helps us pause, breathe, and take the next small step. Whether you’re starting something new or stuck in a familiar loop, just asking “what if” can be the beginning of a better path.
The tools shared in this episode—doors, elevators, journals—are just ways to bring more awareness to our thoughts and feelings. They’re invitations to stop running from uncertainty and start living within it, fully and with hope.

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Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.