PLAN GOAL PLAN | Goals, Transformation for Women, Mindful Time Management, Balance, Working Moms

You're sitting at the edge of something you want. Maybe a new project, maybe a decision you've been circling for months. The calendar says it's time to begin. But your body hesitates. Not because you're unclear, but because starting feels heavier than it should. Y'all, that heaviness isn't a flaw. It's a threshold. And in this episode, I'm diving into why beginnings are actually identity moments (not just logistical tasks) and how rituals can help you cross that threshold when readiness feels impossible. Here's what we're covering: Why ambitious women interpret starting friction as personal failure (and what to do instead) The concept of liminality: being "betwixt and between" who you were and who you're becoming Three types of beginning rituals: opening rituals, reset rituals, and courage rituals The difference between habits (that manage time) and rituals (that assign meaning) Why identity often lags behind your desire and your action Real stories: from helping my daughter release anxiety with dance moves to writing "I am a savvy business woman" every morning The big insight: Beginnings don't ask for readiness. They ask for orientation. And ritual can be the doorway you're allowed to walk through slowly. Your challenge this week: Choose one moment that feels slightly resistant Pick your threshold (start of workday? returning to a dream? saying yes to fear?) Add a sensory marker or identity question: "Who am I invited to become here?" Meet yourself at the threshold—not with pressure, but with presence If you're a woman in a high-pressure job who wants to pursue bold goals without losing yourself—even when life feels banana pants—this episode is your permission slip to begin with ritual, not just willpower. Next week: I'm talking with Ayelet Fishbach (author of Get It Done) about why procrastination shows up when goals threaten our identity. You won't want to miss it! Mentioned in this episode: Simply Bold 8-week group program (for women in high-pressure jobs pursuing bold goals) Sense the Possibilities Planner & Journal Performance studies concepts: liminality, ritual, witnessing Resources: Sense the Possibilities Planner & Journal (20+ worksheets to help you connect with yourself before setting goals) Plan Goal Plan 2026 Weekly Planner Quarterly Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreats (dates at plangoalplan.com/retreats) Connect with me: Email: support@plangoalplan.com Facebook Group: Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334 Ready to begin? Schedule a chat about Simply Bold at plangoalplan.com

Starting is never just about the task. It's about the fear, the friction, and the stories we tell ourselves. And sometimes, it's about doing it together. In this conversation with my husband Ryan (Dr. Ryan McGeough), we get honest about what holds us back, what gets us moving, and what we've learned from books like Tiny Habits, Get It Done, and How to Begin that changed how we start. What we talk about: Why activation energy makes starting so hard (especially with ADHD) The difference between rewards and incentives How perfectionism disguises itself as procrastination Why telling the right people about your goals matters (and the wrong people can derail you) The surprising research on rewards: why giving yourself a "dollar to color" backfires Habit stacking and productive procrastination techniques How couples can support each other's goals by removing friction (not solving) Why self-trust erodes when you don't follow through—and how to rebuild it Key insights from books: Tiny Habits (BJ Fogg): Start ridiculously small. Rewards (immediate pleasure) build habits better than incentives (distant payoffs) Get It Done (Ayelet Fishbach): Wrong rewards can kill intrinsic motivation. Kids who got paid to color were less likely to color again without payment Self-Determination Theory: External controls (deadlines, forced language, performance rewards) can actually reduce motivation by squashing autonomy Ryan's brain hack: Write down 3 daily tasks. Pick the one you should do most—but procrastinate freely by working on the other two. "Number two is in real danger." How we support each other: Annual goal-setting practice together means we know what matters to each other. We can remove friction, budget accordingly, and cheer each other on. Most importantly? We give each other space without having to negotiate every time. Join me this January (all the beginning things!): Break Free From Busy mini-course (free) Your Bold Goal Workshop (Jan 16) Book Club: "How to Begin" (Jan 21 - no reading required!) Resources: Sense the Possibilities Planner & Journal (20+ worksheets to help you connect with yourself before setting goals) Plan Goal Plan 2026 Weekly Planner Quarterly Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreats (dates at plangoalplan.com/retreats) Connect with me: Email: support@plangoalplan.com Facebook Group: Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334

How do I begin? Where do I start? If you've been waiting for things to calm down or trying to earn permission to focus on yourself, this episode is for you. Beginning isn't about having clarity—it's about creating a container where clarity can emerge. What you'll learn: Why you don't need a perfect plan to begin (just a "starter plan") How to start something meaningful without quitting your entire life Why overthinking is actually disguised fear The psychology of the "fresh start effect" and how to create your own Using tiny experiments to test bold goals without destabilizing everything The truth: Many high-achieving women believe they succeeded by managing everything. Starting something for yourself means asking: "Who am I allowed to be?" You don't need to earn the right to begin. Confidence comes from acting, not from waiting. You can pursue bold goals through small experiments—no grand reinvention required. Join me this January (all the beginning things!): Break Free From Busy mini-course (free) Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreat (Jan 9) Your Bold Goal Workshop (Jan 16) Book Club: "How to Begin" (Jan 21 - no reading required!) Links at plangoalplan.com Books mentioned: "Start" by Jon Acuff, "Lean Learning" by Pat Flynn, "How to Begin" by Michael Bungay Stanier You don't need to quit your whole life to do something meaningful. You just need to start. Resources: Sense the Possibilities Planner & Journal (20+ worksheets to help you connect with yourself before setting goals) Plan Goal Plan 2026 Weekly Planner Quarterly Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreats (dates at plangoalplan.com/retreats) Connect with me: Email: support@plangoalplan.com Facebook Group: Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334

When was the last time you really let yourself DREAM? Like, gave yourself full permission to get wild and audacious about your future?If you're like me, you might think you're a big dreamer—but you're actually thinking smaller than you're capable of.  In this solo episode, I'm getting nerdy about the relationship between dreaming big, hope, and your future self. And here's the surprising discovery: hope isn't an emotion—it's a learnable skill. What you'll learn: Why hope is a state of mind, not an emotion (and why that matters for goal-setting) How hopeful people are better problem-solvers with more cognitive flexibility The concept of "utopian performances"—how imagining your future changes your present Why dreaming big might feel arrogant or dangerous (but your utopia always includes community) The 5-year dreaming activity that challenged me to think bigger Here's what the research shows: Hopeful people are more motivated, better at problem-solving, and have brains that can imagine multiple possible futures. The coolest part? Hope is trainable. I geek out a bit on performance studies (my research area!) and talk about how theater creates spaces where people rehearse living different futures. Brazilian theater practitioner Augusto Boal used "Theater of the Oppressed" to help people literally rehearse for revolution. The Big Question: Are you holding back on a goal because it seems too scary? Does naming it out loud feel too hopeful—like you're setting yourself up for disappointment? Your Challenge: Before you set your next goal, check your state of mind. Are you feeling hopeful? If not, cultivate a hopeful mind first—one that's motivated, good at problem-solving, and able to imagine your ideal future self. By just dreaming, you'll find yourself acting differently in the present. Your future self will come together faster than you ever thought possible. Mentioned in this episode: Mitch Matthews (Dream Think Do & Encouraging the Encouragers podcasts) Brené Brown's "Atlas of the Heart" Jill Dolan's "Utopia in Performance" Augusto Boal's "Theater of the Oppressed" Resources: Sense the Possibilities Planner & Journal (20+ worksheets to help you connect with yourself before setting goals) Plan Goal Plan 2026 Weekly Planner Quarterly Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreats (dates at plangoalplan.com/retreats) Connect with me: Email: support@plangoalplan.com Facebook Group: Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334

Y'all, this conversation completely wrecked me in the best way. I sat down with Collin Jewett—someone whose orbit I desperately wanted to be in after just one 15-minute conversation—and we went DEEP.  Collin is the host of Superhuman Academy podcast, and he has this incredible gift: he sees beauty in people that others overlook. And not in a cheesy, motivational-poster kind of way. In a real, grounded, "I'm going to create spaces where isolated people can connect" kind of way. We talked about everything from his childhood on the playground looking for kids who needed friends, to why adult men are struggling with deep friendships, to what it means to be "not afraid of feeling any feelings." What we explored in this conversation: Why so many men lack deep friendships (and what that costs them) The difference between "positive judgment" and actually seeing beauty in someone How Collin learned his facial expressions were making people think he hated them Why cooperative play matters for adult male friendships The practice of actually answering "How are you?" with real emotional check-ins What happens when you don't have an inner critic (and why that's not narcissism) The cost of dissociation and "just doing the thing" without honoring emotions How emotions are both informational feedback AND motivating energy This episode is for you if: You're a woman wondering how to support the men in your life (partners, sons, friends) You struggle with adult friendships and feel isolated You're curious about emotional intelligence and vulnerability You're tired of the "just push through your feelings" approach to goals You want to learn how to see beauty—in yourself and others—without judgment Collin shared something that stopped me in my tracks: Most conversations men have are purely logistical. Work is problem-solving. Family conversations are scheduling. And when he asks men when they last had a deep conversation, they often say it's the conversation they're having with him RIGHT THEN—sometimes for the first time in a decade. We also got beautifully weird talking about Northern Lights, asymmetrical eyebrows, the "Blue Crew" in high school, and why liking yourself doesn't make you a narcissist (my therapist had to tell me this too, apparently). This conversation left me feeling appreciative, contemplative, and deeply curious. I hope it does the same for you. Connect with Collin: Podcast: Superhuman Academy Email: collin@superhumanacademy.com Resources: Sense the Possibilities Planner & Journal (20+ worksheets to help you connect with yourself before setting goals) Plan Goal Plan 2026 Weekly Planner Join the January Plan Goal Plan Retreat at Sign Up Here Connect with me: Email: support@plangoalplan.com Facebook Group: Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334

Y'all, I'm SO excited about this conversation! If you've ever fought with your partner about money, this episode is about to change your life. I'm joined by Joe Saul-Sehy, the hilarious co-host of Stacking Benjamins (named America's top personal finance podcast!), and he's sharing the simple 20-minute weekly money ritual that transformed his marriage—and stopped the money fights. Here's the truth: My husband and I discovered we were paying for TWO Disney+ accounts. For YEARS. And we couldn't even remember the passwords. 🤦‍♀️ But after implementing Joe's ritual? We're actually excited about our money meetings now. In this episode, you'll learn: The exact 20-minute weekly money ritual that stops couples from fighting about finances How to make money conversations judgment-free (even when your partner buys "stupid movies" and you buy board games) Why weekly beats monthly for money check-ins (and why it should never go over 20 minutes!) The "allowance hack" that lets you both have guilt-free spending money How to make money talks cozy and fun (pancakes at IHOP or wine at home—your choice!) Why automation beats discipline EVERY time when it comes to saving money The brilliant "friction strategy" for protecting your emergency fund Joe's Best Money Hacks: Open your banking app together and just talk through last week's purchases Set a 20-minute timer and STOP when it goes off (consistency > perfection) Give each other "no judgment" allowances for your personal spending When you cancel a subscription, immediately automate that amount to savings Make your emergency fund hard to access (seriously—no debit card, no online access) The game-changer? Joe shows us how these tiny 20-minute conversations open the door for bigger money talks to happen naturally—on hikes, over dinner, anywhere. Because you're handling the small stuff weekly, the big stuff doesn't feel so scary anymore. Resources Mentioned: Stacking Benjamins Podcast Monarch Money app (budgeting tool Joe and his wife use) Joe's free guide to finding money in your budget you didn't know you had (link in show notes!) Connect with Joe: Website: stackingbenjamins.com Instagram: @stackingbenjaminspodcast Facebook: @istackbenjamins TikTok: @stackingbenjamins Resources: Sense the Possibilities Planner & Journal (20+ worksheets to help you connect with yourself before setting goals) Plan Goal Plan 2026 Weekly Planner Quarterly Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreats (dates at plangoalplan.com/retreats) Connect with me: Email: support@plangoalplan.com Facebook Group: Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334

Ever wonder what happens AFTER someone sets their goals? Well, buckle up because I'm pulling back the curtain on how I'm planning 2026—the messy parts, the exciting parts, and everything in between! In this episode, I'm sharing my complete goal-setting process, from the journaling I started back in October (yes, October!) to how I'm turning big dreams into actual calendar blocks. You'll hear about the weekend my husband and I spent mapping out our family goals, why I only set 8 goals a year, and the exact system I use to move from "wouldn't it be nice" to "this is actually happening." Here's what we're covering: How to move goals from ideas to your actual calendar (this is where the magic happens!) My framework for choosing just 2 goals per quarter instead of overwhelming yourself with 12 The difference between planning in your natural rhythms vs. fighting against them Why starting early doesn't mean having it all figured out (I'm still working on my word of the year!) Plus, I'm announcing some BIG changes coming to Plan Goal Plan in 2026: Monthly themes for every episode (January is all about "Begin"!) More solo episodes where you get my unfiltered thoughts Guest episodes with major authors (January's guest is chef's kiss) New quarterly retreats and intimate group coaching cohorts If you're a woman in a high-pressure job who wants to pursue bold goals without losing yourself—even when life feels banana pants—this episode is your permission slip to plan with intention AND lightness. Ready to make 2026 your year? Let's do this together. Mentioned in this episode: Sense the Possibilities Planner & Journal (20+ worksheets to help you connect with yourself before setting goals) Plan Goal Plan 2026 Weekly Planner Quarterly Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreats (dates at plangoalplan.com/retreats) Connect with me: Email: support@plangoalplan.com Facebook Group: Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Cumberland, the founder of The Meaning Movement and Dan Cumberland Labs, to explore a different side of artificial intelligence. Instead of just talking about how AI can make us faster or more productive, we dive into how it can actually help us slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most. I share my own experiences and questions about using AI for deeper thinking, journaling, and aligning my daily actions with my values. Dan brings his unique journey from ministry and psychology to entrepreneurship and AI consulting, and together we discuss: Why adopting new tech sometimes makes us busier, not freer How I use AI as a mirror for self-reflection, not just a productivity tool Dan’s “POWER” framework for integrating AI into your workflow with intention Real-life ways I use AI for journaling, coaching, and surfacing deeper insights The importance of being intentional and clear about your values when working with AI How AI can support (or sometimes challenge) our intuition and creativity Practical examples from both my family life and business If you’ve ever felt curious about AI but worried about losing your humanity in the process, this conversation is for you. I hope it helps you find new ways to use technology as a tool for awareness and meaning. Connect with Dan: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dancumberland Dan Cumberland Labs: dancumberlandlabs.com The AI Training Guide: aitrainingguide.com Links & resources: Stuck Assessment: https://www.plangoalplan.com/stuck  Plan Goal Plan Planners! Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334

Ever wondered what would happen if you stopped running on fumes and started living on purpose? Well, you’re in the right place! In this episode, I get to chat with the amazing Kerri Patt—a coach, podcast host, and all-around champion for working moms who want to reclaim their calm, set boundaries that actually stick, and find rhythms that nurture both ambition and wellbeing. Kerri and I go way back, and I just adore her energy and wisdom. She shares her wild ride from managing properties in NYC during Hurricane Sandy (yes, really!) to realizing she needed to make some big changes for herself and her family. We talk about the messy, beautiful journey of setting boundaries at work and at home, the myths about time management (spoiler: four hours of deep work is NOT a thing for most moms!), and how to celebrate those tiny wins that add up to big changes. We also get real about saying “no” (even when you want to say yes to everything!), giving yourself grace, and teaching our kids that every day is a fresh start. If you’re a working mom, a dreamer, or just someone who wants to live a little more intentionally, this episode is for you! In this episode, you’ll hear: My favorite tips for setting boundaries (and why it’s so hard!) Kerri’s story of finding purpose after burnout How to spot your biggest time-wasters (hello, Instagram and TV!) The magic of morning routines and “top three” priorities Why saying “no” can be the most loving thing you do for yourself How to start small and build momentum toward your big dreams So grab your coffee, pop in those earbuds, and let’s dive in together! 💖 Connect with Kerri Website:https://www.momwifecareerlife.com/ Podcast: Mom Wife Career Life Freebies: https://www.momwifecareerlife.com/freebies/ Social: https://www.instagram.com/mom.wife.career.life/ Email: momwifecareerlife@gmail.com Links & resources: Stuck Assessment: https://www.plangoalplan.com/stuck  Plan Goal Plan Planners! Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334

Hey friends, Danielle here! In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Yvonne Trost—transformational leader, happiness coach, and co-founder of Limitless You. Yvonne’s journey from divorce and single parenting to leaving a successful career for her true calling is nothing short of inspiring. We dive deep into the myths around self-love (spoiler: it’s not selfish!), how our subconscious programming shapes our lives, and why upgrading your mental “software” is essential for real success. Yvonne shares practical wisdom on building self-trust, breaking free from limiting beliefs, and daring to dream beyond your current reality. You’ll hear us talk about: The difference between self-love and selfishness How childhood conditioning impacts adult decisions The “realize, recode, rewrite” method for personal transformation Why honesty with yourself is the first step to change How to move from autopilot to aligned living If you’ve ever felt stuck, doubted your worth, or wondered if you’re truly living your purpose, this conversation is for you. Yvonne’s story and actionable advice will help you see that you are, in fact, limitless. Ready to break free from old patterns and step into your most authentic self? Let’s do it! Links & resources: Stuck Assessment: https://www.plangoalplan.com/stuck  Plan Goal Plan Planners! Join Here Website: PlanGoalPlan.com LinkedIn: (I post most here!) www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-🗓️-b673334 Connect with Yvonne: Website: https://unlocklimitlessyou.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unlocklimitlessyou/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unlocklimitlessyou Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unlockLimitlessYou/ Linkedin for yvonne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-trost/ Linkedin for LimitlessYou: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unlocklimitlessyou/?viewAsMember=true Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BradChandlerCoaching contact email: yvonne@unlocklimitlessyou.com free session: https://unlocklimitlessyou.com/free-session