The Rebel’s Guide to Starting Over (After Your Perfect Life Imploded)

10 Irreverent Ways to Rebuild When “Resilience” Feels Like a meaningless Buzzword

Anna: Rebellious, and relentlessly hopeful

Anna sat at her kitchen table, staring at her untouched cup of tea. The morning light filtered through the window, casting soft shadows over the chaos of half-read self-help books, scribbled notes, and empty tea cups.

Her dog, Max, snored softly under the table, blissfully unaware that his human was knee-deep in an existential crisis.

Six months ago, Anna’s life had imploded. A sudden divorce. A job that vanished overnight. Friends who promised, “I’m here for you!” and then mysteriously disappeared faster than cake at a birthday party.

She had tried everything. Therapy, journaling, breathwork, meditation, binge-watching motivational TED Talks, even an ill-advised attempt at goat yoga. (The goats had fun. She did not.)

But despite all the effort, she still felt stuck. Like she was treading water in the deep end of an existential swimming pool with no ladder in sight.

Then, one sleepless night, while doom-scrolling through yet another listicle on “10 Ways to Reinvent Yourself After Life Punches You in the Face”, an email popped up:

👉 “How to Rebuild Your Life After Everything Falls Apart.”

She almost deleted it.

Because, honestly? She was tired of empty promises.

But something about it felt… different.

The email wasn’t full of fluff about “bouncing back” or “embracing the journey” (ew). It was blunt, practical, and—dare she say—hopeful. It talked about real transformation, not just coping. About reinventing your life in a way that actually fits the person you’re in the process of becoming.

So, she clicked. Read the email and requested the Ready for a Radical Renaissance? quiz. And braced herself for disappointment.

Except… it wasn’t disappointing.

It didn’t reveal that she had to slap a gratitude sticker on her grief and manifest her way out of the mess. Instead, it introduced her to an actual roadmap for navigating the chaos of change. A medically-informed, science-backed, soul-strengthening approach to rebuilding identity, confidence, and clarity after a major life shake-up.

For the first time in months, something clicked.

She didn’t need to “bounce back.” She needed to move forward.

So, she did.

Six months later, Anna is no longer just surviving her LifeQuake. She’s designing a life that excites her. She’s found meaning in the mess, clarity in the uncertainty, and—most importantly—she’s drinking her tea before it goes cold.

And it all started with that one click.

If you’re in the middle of your own LifeQuake and you’re tired of the same old advice that doesn’t fit, I invite you to check out the LifeQuake Survival Protocol.

Because you’re not broken. You’re in the messy, magnificent process of becoming.

👉 Request the Ready for a Radical Renaissance? quiz now.

PS: You don’t have to do this alone. And you definitely don’t have to do goat yoga. (Unless you really want to.)

10 Irreverent Ways to Start Over

Introduction: The Jenga Tower of Adulthood

Let’s start with a metaphor we can all understand: Your life is a Jenga tower. You’ve spent decades stacking blocks labelled “Career,” “Relationships,” “Routine,” and “I Swear I’ll Start Meditating Eventually.” Each block was placed with precision, each wobble stabilised with white-knuckled determination. Then, out of nowhere—whoosh—a layoff, divorce, burnout, or an existential crisis dressed in sweatpants knocks it all down.

Now you’re sitting cross-legged in the debris, wondering if you’re supposed to rebuild the same tower (but better this time!) or say “screw it” and plant a garden in the wreckage.

Here’s the truth: Collapse is not a tragedy. It’s an invitation. A cosmic reset button. But rebuilding doesn’t mean replicating what was. It means reimagining what could be. Below are 10 gloriously unorthodox strategies for professionals who’ve outgrown “bouncing back” and are ready to leap forward.

1. Embrace the Art of Strategic Quitting

The Pitch: Quitting isn’t failure—it’s editing your life’s script.

Society treats quitting like a four-letter word. We’re told to “never give up,” even when we’re miserable, stuck, or halfway up a ladder leaning against the wrong wall. But here’s a radical idea: Strategic quitting is the ultimate power move.

Why It Works: Successful professionals are especially prone to the “sunk cost fallacy” (“I’ve invested 10 years in this career/marriage/ill-advised ponytail phase!”). But clinging to what’s not working wastes more time than walking away.

Try This:

  • Audit your commitments. What are you doing purely out of obligation or inertia?
  • Quit something small first. Cancel the newsletter you never read. Resign from the committee that drains your soul. Practice the muscle of letting go.

Journal Prompt:
“List 3 things you’re still doing because ‘I’ve always done it this way.’ What would happen if you quit?”

2. Become a Beginner Again

The Pitch: Mastery is admirable, but there’s magic in sucking at something too.

Successful professionals often avoid activities where they’re not instantly competent. (Perfectionism: the ultimate buzzkill.) But here’s the secret: Starting from zero rewires your brain for curiosity, not just achievement.

Why It Works: Learning something new—whether it’s pottery, coding, or competitive axe-throwing—forces you to embrace awkwardness. It’s a reminder that growth happens in the messy middle, not just at the finish line.

Pro Tip: Take a class where you’re the worst student. Dance lessons. A language you butcher. Let yourself laugh at the chaos. Bonus: You’ll meet humans who don’t care about your LinkedIn.

Journal Prompt:
“What’s one thing you’d try if no one (including you) expected you to be good at it?”

3. Curate Your Inputs Like a Michelin-Starred Chef

The Pitch: You are what you consume. Time to audit your mental diet.

Most professionals subsist on a junk-food diet of breaking news, LinkedIn humblebrags, and Instagram envy. No wonder you feel bloated and anxious.

Why It Works: Swap the mental junk food for nourishment. Follow poets on TikTok. Listen to niche podcasts about underwater basket weaving. Read biographies of people who’ve never heard of KPIs.

Try This:

  • Unfollow anyone who triggers “compare and despair.” Your psyche is not a democracy.
  • Create a “mental tapas” playlist. 15 minutes of Mongolian throat singing, a chapter of Mary Oliver, a TED Talk on slime moulds.

Journal Prompt:
“What’s one source of input (person, app, habit) that drains you? What nourishing alternative could replace it?”

4. The Power of Micro-Rebellions

The Pitch: Tiny acts of defiance spark seismic shifts.

Post-collapse life can feel heavy. Counteract it with playful rebellion. Wear polka dots with plaid. Take a “sick day” to binge Bluey. Order dessert first.

Why It Works: Micro-rebellions disrupt autopilot mode. They remind you that you’re the author of your rules.

Journal Prompt:
“Plan one micro-rebellion this week. How does it feel to break your own rules?”

5. Monetise Your Pain (No, Really)

The Pitch: Your worst experiences are a PhD in resilience. Cash in.

Laid off? Write a satirical guide to corporate jargon. Divorced? Launch a “Breakup Concierge” service. Trauma, when processed, becomes your most valuable credential.

Why It Works: Transforming pain into purpose (or profit) isn’t exploitation—it’s alchemy.

Pro Tip: Don’t just monetize; meaningize.

Journal Prompt:
“What painful chapter of your life could become a book, workshop, or oddly specific Etsy store?”

6. Design a ‘Reverse Bucket List’

The Pitch: Marie Kondo your soul.

Instead of chasing achievements, list what to release: outdated beliefs, toxic relationships, that self-help book you guilt-read for 3 years.

Why It Works: Letting go creates space for what actually matters.

Try This: Write a breakup letter to your former self. “Dear Workaholic Me, it’s not you, it’s me. Also, it’s definitely you.” Burn it.

Journal Prompt:
“What 3 things are you ready to cross off your life permanently?”

7. Host a Funeral for Your Former Self

The Pitch: Closure isn’t a feeling—it’s a ritual.

Gather friends, pour wine, and eulogize the “you” that no longer exists. Celebrate their triumphs, roast their blind spots, then bury the coffin (metaphorically… unless you’re extra).

Why It Works: Rituals signal transformation. You’re not who you were. Honour that.

Journal Prompt:
“What would your funeral speech for your past self include?”

8. Become an Anthropologist investigating Your Own Life

The Pitch: Study yourself like a fascinating stranger.

Detach and observe: Why does traffic make me rage? Why do I equate productivity with worth?

Why It Works: Objectivity reveals patterns—and the power to change them.

Pro Tip: Keep a field notebook titled “Case Study: [Your Name]. Subject is… intriguing.”

Journal Prompt:
“What’s one quirk or habit you’ve noticed about yourself? What might it signify?”

9. Build a ‘Failure Resume’

The Pitch: Reframe flops as badges of honour.

List every failure, rejection, and faceplant. Next to each, write what it taught you. Suddenly, your worst moments look like a syllabus for wisdom.

For example: A tech exec’s “Failure Resume” includes: “Got fired in 2008 → Learned to negotiate severance like a mob boss.”

Journal Prompt:
“What’s your most educational failure? What’s its PhD in?”

10. Create a ‘Maybe List’

The Pitch: Let possibilities breathe without commitment.

Post-crisis, decisions feel heavy. Instead, draft a “Maybe List”: Maybe I’ll take a sabbatical. Maybe I’ll adopt a llama. Maybe I’ll move to Portugal.

Why It Works: “Maybe” is permission to dream without pressure.

Pro Tip: Revisit the list monthly. Some maybes will rot. Others will scream “DO ME.”

Journal Prompt:
“What’s one wildly impractical ‘maybe’ you’re afraid to voice? (Llama optional.)”

Conclusion: The Mosaic of You

Rebuilding isn’t about restoring what was—it’s about assembling something new from the rubble. A mosaic, perhaps, where every shard of failure, reinvention, and rebellion becomes part of a richer, stranger, more beautiful whole.

P.S. If all else fails, remember: Many a great empire was built on the ashes of what came before. Why should your life be any different?

Ready to start again, stronger than ever before? This quiz will help you find out. It is not just about measuring where you are right now; it’s about shining a light on the areas of your life that feel meaningful, as well as those that might need attention. It’s an opportunity to reflect, recalibrate, and take steps toward a life that’s not only successful but profoundly fulfilling. Take The Quiz

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or on the edge of burnout, you need immediate support. The Road Map to Resilience: Burnout to Brilliance online course (with the option of adding coaching sessions) is designed for exactly that: a practical, step-by-step course to help you regain control, rebuild your energy, and find clarity in the chaos. This isn’t a quick fix—it’s about proven strategies to calm your nervous system, shift your mindset, and create sustainable resilience. No need to cope with this on your own—let’s get you back on track.

“I am an experienced medical doctor – MBChB, MRCGP, NLP master pract cert, Transformational Life Coach (dip.) Life Story Coach (cert.) Counselling (cert.) Med Hypnotherapy (dip.) and EAGALA (cert.) I may have an impressive number of letters after my name, and more than three decades of professional experience, but what qualifies me to excel at what I do is my intuitive understanding of my clients’ difficulties and my extensive personal experience of managing major life changes using strategies I developed over many years” Dr M Montagu

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Finding My Footing: Leaving Political Uncertainty Behind

uncertainy

A French Escape from Life’s Uncertainties

Posted March 18, 2025

I’m sitting on a weathered stone bench in the garden of this ridiculously charming cottage, watching the afternoon sun cast long shadows across the countryside. Five days in Gascony in exactly what my soul needed. I didn’t realize how tightly I’d been clenching my jaw until I got off the plane in France. Not just metaphorically—I mean, literally grinding my molars like they owed me money. You know that dull ache you get in your temples when your body’s been on high alert for decades? That was me, standing in Bordeaux airport in the southwest of France, clutching a tote bag full of granola bars, travel-sized Advil, and a heart full of hope.

Three glasses of wine on the plane might be helping too. 🍷

It’s been two years since the divorce was finalized. Two years of rebuilding what I jokingly call my “second act,” though sometimes it feels more like my fifth or sixth. The kids keep telling me I’m handling everything “like a boss,” but they don’t see me at 3 AM scrolling through news headlines, wondering if my little pet portrait business will survive another economic rollercoaster. They don’t hear me rehearsing what to say to clients who need to “think about it” when I quote my prices—prices that barely cover my supplies and time.

Lately, every morning felt like waking up in a dystopian novel: “Housing prices rise dramatically,” “Climate collapse imminent,” “New study says coffee is (still) killing us.” And I hadn’t even made it out of bed yet.

Don’t get me wrong—this isn’t my first time living through political and economic messiness. I remember the ’70s gas lines, the ’80s inflation, the whole “recession” rollercoaster. But this? This feels different. Louder. Meaner. Faster.

And somehow, I was still expected to eat nutritious meals, hit my 10,000 steps, and respond to every Slack message like I hadn’t just read a headline about the banking system potentially collapsing. Again.

How I Ended Up in France (A Happy Accident)

First things first—I’m not independently wealthy. This retreat was a splurge that my practical midwestern mother would have scolded me for. But after watching my retirement account do the cha-cha slide for months, I figured the money might as well go toward sanity preservation.

When my daughter Lauren said, “Mom, you haven’t taken a real vacation since before COVID,” I realized she was right. I’d been painting other people’s beloved pets non-stop, living vicariously through their joy while neglecting my own. So here I am, thanks to an affordable package deal, a stack of unused credit card points, and my daughter’s persistent “you deserve this” cheerleading.

“Just book it, Mom,” she said over FaceTime. “What’s the worst that could happen?”

“Global economic collapse while I’m sipping wine in another country?” I replied.

She rolled her eyes out loud in that way only adult children can. “

The Pet Portrait Business

Let me tell you about my little enterprise—”Pawtraits by Patty.” (Yes, I know the name is corny. My ex-husband thought so too, right before he left me for his Pilates instructor. But customers remember it, so there’s that.)

I started painting pets during lockdown, when everyone and their mother suddenly adopted pandemic puppies and kittens. My first commission was my neighbour’s goldendoodle, Waffle. I captured that goofy, tongue-lolling smile perfectly, if I do say so myself. When she cried after unwrapping it, I knew I might be onto something.

Five years later, I’ve painted over 300 pets. Dogs, cats, rabbits, parrots, one surprisingly expressive bearded dragon, and a hedgehog named Sir Prickles who was absolutely the diva his name suggested. Each painting takes me about 15-20 hours, depending on complexity. I work from photos, asking owners to send their favourite shots that capture their pet’s personality.

Last month, I painted a memorial portrait of a 15-year-old retriever named Buddy. His owner sent me a letter afterwards that had me sobbing in my studio:

“When I look at your painting, I don’t just see Buddy—I see the thousands of walks we took together, the way he guarded my children, how he knew when I was sad before I did. You didn’t just paint his face; you captured his soul.”

Yeah. That’s why I do this, economic uncertainty be damned.

When the World Feels Wobbly

Speaking of uncertainty… good lord, has anyone else felt like they’re living in a reality show the past few years? One where the producers keep throwing in plot twists just to see if we’ll crack?

The economy news gives me whiplash. Monday: “RECOVERY STRONG!” Tuesday: “RECESSION FEARS LOOM!” Wednesday: “EXPERTS DIVIDED!” Thursday: “NEW CRISIS EMERGES!” Friday: “FORGET EVERYTHING WE SAID MONDAY THROUGH THURSDAY!”

My small business feels those ripples immediately. When people get nervous about money, custom pet portraits aren’t exactly top priority. January and February were so slow I seriously considered getting a “real job” again. The thought of returning to corporate accounting after 5 years of freedom made me break out in hives, but there were moments I wondered if I’d have a choice.

Then March hit, and suddenly I had a 6-week waiting list. No rhyme or reason. Just the mysterious ebb and flow of people deciding they need artwork of their furry companions.

My son Jake says I should raise my prices. “Mom, you’re underselling yourself,” he insists every time we talk. Maybe he’s right. But in this economy? It feels risky. Plus, I love that my portraits are accessible to normal people, not just the wealthy who didn’t feel the pinch of inflation.

Political Animals

Can we talk politics without everyone getting their hackles up? Probably not, which is why I’ve mostly stopped trying.

The election aftermath has been… strange. Regardless of how you voted (and I’m not sharing which way I went), the tension is exhausting. Half my clients probably disagree with my views, and I with theirs, but we find common ground in loving animals. That’s something, isn’t it?

My ex was extremely political—the kind who’d argue with strangers online for hours. After we split, I realised how much of his anxiety had become mine. How his doomsday predictions had coloured my world much darker than it needed to be.

Don’t get me wrong—there’s plenty to worry about. But I’m trying to focus on what I can control. My business. My happiness. How many baguettes I can reasonably consume while I’m in France. (Current count: seven in four days. Send help.)

French Lessons

The retreat organizer, Margaretha, is a fifty-something French woman who exudes the kind of confidence I’m still working hard toward. Yesterday, she caught me obsessively checking my phone for news and client emails.

“This,” she said, plucking the phone from my hands, “is not why you came to France.”

She was right, of course. I didn’t travel 4,000 miles just to stare at the same screen I stare at back home.

“The world will still be there when you return,” she said. “All its problems too. But right now, you are here.”

Then she taught me a French phrase I’ve been repeating like a mantra: “Profite de l’instant présent.” Enjoy the present moment.

So I’m trying. I’ve spent mornings sketching the countryside, afternoons exploring villages with buildings older than my entire country, and evenings sharing wine and stories with the other retreat-goers—a surprising mix of ages and backgrounds, all seeking some version of what I’m seeking.

There’s Harriet, a retired nurse from Edinburgh with the most delightful laugh. James, a widower from Australia who’s learning to cook after 43 years of marriage to a woman who never let him in “her kitchen.” Sophia, only 32 but wise beyond her years, taking a break from her tech job in Berlin.

Yesterday we all visited a local animal sanctuary, which felt like the universe giving me a personalised gift. I spent hours sketching the rescued donkeys and goats, promising the caretaker I’d send finished portraits when I returned home.

Slow Days, Slow Thoughts

Early one morning, I sat outside with my coffee and just… stared. Not at my phone. Not at a screen. Just at the mist rising off the meadow in front of me, backlit by a truly breathtaking sunrise. I listened to birds I couldn’t name, watched a snail make its unbothered way across a garden path, and realised I hadn’t rushed in two full days.

Later that morning we went to the local fresh food market in Eauze. No big itinerary, no time pressure. Just a lazy stroll through cobbled streets, picking up goat cheese wrapped in leaves, peaches that smelled like sunshine, and a baguette that made me question why I ever bothered with low-carb diets.

There was a man at the market playing accordion, and a little girl dancing barefoot next to him while her grandfather clapped along. I actually got teary-eyed. I don’t know if it was the music or the cheese fumes, but it hit me—this is what I’ve been missing. The small stuff.

The stuff that doesn’t go viral.

The News Will Wait

I haven’t checked the news since I got here. Not because I don’t care—trust me, I do—but because I physically couldn’t absorb one more opinion about what we should be doing or fearing or fixing. It’s like trying to patch a leaky boat with a thimble.

Not knowing everything all the time is… perfectly acceptable. I used to think being informed meant being perpetually plugged in. Turns out, it’s okay to not be tuned in 24/7. You don’t become a bad citizen by taking a break.

You become a bad citizen when you’re too burnt out to care anymore.

What’s Coming Back With Me

The retreat’s winding down, and I’m already bracing myself for my return.

But I’m different now. Not transformed or reborn—let’s not get dramatic. Just… recalibrated.

Here’s what I’m taking back:

  • A slower morning: No screens until my second cup of coffee and the cat feels appreciated enough to allow it.
  • A little less guilt: I’m allowed to not care about everything, all the time. Especially if it’s outside my control.
  • The refusal to hustle for my worth: I’m enough even if I don’t optimise every d*** second.

I still don’t have answers. I still worry. I still get overwhelmed when I think too hard about what kind of world my kids are inheriting. But I also know I’m not alone. And I don’t have to white-knuckle it through the chaos pretending everything’s fine when it’s not.

Going Home to Myself

I’ve got two more days here before real life resumes. Part of me wants to check the news, prepare myself for whatever financial or political chaos awaits. The rest of me wants to stay in this bubble where my biggest concern is whether to have cheese BEFORE or AFTER dinner (the French are very particular about this, apparently).

I’ve taken on board that the uncertainty will still be there when I return. The only thing I can change is how I carry it.

Before the divorce, before my business, I defined security as something external—a stable marriage, a steady paycheck, a predictable world. All illusions, as it turns out.

Real security comes from knowing you can adapt. From building resilience through countless small recoveries. From creating joy even when the world seems intent on cancelling it.

My pet portraits aren’t just about capturing beloved animals—they’re about preserving moments of pure, uncomplicated love. That’s something that retains its value regardless of inflation rates or election outcomes.

So I’m going back with a plan:

  1. Raise my prices—just 15%. Jake was right. (Don’t tell him I said that.)
  2. Launch that online course teaching others to paint their own pets. I’ve been putting it off for a year.
  3. Schedule “France Moments” every day—twenty minutes to sit outside with my coffee and just be present, no matter what.
  4. Remember that economic cycles come and go, politicians rise and fall, but dog kisses and cat purrs remain consistently valuable.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by it all too, consider this your permission slip to step away—even if just mentally—and find your equivalent of a garden bench in a French garden. The world will wait.

And if you need me, I’ll be in my studio, painting pets and practising profiting from the present moment.

Until next time, Patty 🎨🐾

P.S. Anyone know how to say “I need help. I’m addicted to baguettes” in French? Asking for a friend…

Hit the pause button and regain your footing during a From Troubled to Triumphant Retreat. Imagine walking a peaceful stretch of the Camino de Santiago, where every step helps untangle the mental clutter or spending time with gentle Friesian horses who teach you the art of mindfulness. Whether you choose to make a change or are forced to, this retreat offers the perfect blend of peace, perspective, and playful exploration to help you rise from troubled to triumphant!

Ready to start again, stronger than ever before? This quiz will help you find out. It is not just about measuring where you are right now; it’s about shining a light on the areas of your life that feel meaningful, as well as those that might need attention. It’s an opportunity to reflect, recalibrate, and take steps toward a life that’s not only successful but profoundly fulfilling. Take The Quiz

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or on the edge of burnout, you need immediate support. The Road Map to Resilience: Burnout to Brilliance online course (with the option of adding coaching sessions) is designed for exactly that: a practical, step-by-step course to help you regain control, rebuild your energy, and find clarity in the chaos. This isn’t a quick fix—it’s about proven strategies to calm your nervous system, shift your mindset, and create sustainable resilience. No need to cope with this on your own—let’s get you back on track.

In a Changing World, those who Innovate Thrive

Life Quake Survival Guide


In a world that’s rewriting itself in real-time, there’s never been a better moment to ditch the script and design a life that fits who you are now.

#LifeQuakeSurvivalGuide

There’s a moment in every good disaster movie when the main character realises the rules have changed. The usual solutions? Useless. And while it’s chaotic and terrifying, it’s also thrilling—because suddenly, all bets are off.

Welcome to that moment. Only, it’s not a movie—it’s your career, your business, your life. And the world as we knew it? Well… let’s just say it’s not taking calls right now.

The Illusion of “The Right Way”

Let’s begin with a myth we’ve all politely nodded along with: There’s a right way to do things. A proper order. A respectable timeline. A correct path.

Sure, maybe there was once such a roadmap. University. Marriage. Career. Children. Mortgage. Occasional holiday in the sun. Retirement. Golf.

But the world has flipped, folded, and gone a bit origami on us. And clinging to yesterday’s rulebook is like trying to navigate a jungle with a Tube map.

You may be feeling that itch—the quiet (or not so quiet) suspicion that the rules no longer apply. That your job, your habits, your business model, or even your identity might be due for a shake-up.

I’m here to say: You’re absolutely right!

Uncertainty = Opportunity (Yes, Really)

Now, before you roll your eyes and mutter, “Not another ‘crisis is an opportunity’ pep talk,” hear me out. I’m not here to slap a sunshine sticker on your existential dread. But I am going to tell you this:

When the world is wobbling, no one notices if you colour outside the lines. And more importantly—no one cares.

Uncertainty levels the playing field. It gives you permission to experiment, take risks, and finally try the things you’ve been too afraid (or too polite) to do.

Case in Point: The Career Pivot You Were Scared to Make

Maybe you’ve been daydreaming about a career change. Something more meaningful. Something less soul-sucking. But that tiny inner voice whispers: Now’s not the time. Things are too unstable.

Exactly. That’s why it’s the time.

Because if you’re going to leap, wouldn’t you rather do it while the ground is shifting anyway?

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be willing to begin—messily, curiously, and on your own terms.

Rewriting the Rules (Without Burning Down the House)

Let me be clear: I’m not suggesting you torch your life and live in a van named Zen (unless you really want to—then by all means, pass the kombucha).

I’m talking about micro-rebellions. Small, strategic acts of rule-breaking that create seismic internal shifts. Things like:

  • Setting working hours that honour your actual energy, not your inbox.
  • Turning down a “great opportunity” that feels misaligned.
  • Ditching rigid productivity hacks and choosing sustainable momentum instead.
  • Questioning whether the identity you’ve been performing still fits.

What Exactly Is a Micro-Rebellion?

Micro-rebellions are deliciously powerful acts of defiance.

Think of them as the elegant, quiet middle finger to societal norms, outdated expectations, and all the “shoulds” that have been running your life on autopilot. They’re not grand revolutions (though those have their place too). They’re the subtle, daily acts of self-honouring and soul-alignment that slowly—but surely—reshape your life from the inside out.

They’re radical in their intent, not always in their appearance.

It’s a tiny yet intentional act of resistance against the rules you never agreed to. The ones that keep you tired, small, or misaligned. Micro-rebellions are how we start to live our truth in a world that constantly tries to define it for us.

It’s not about being a rebel without a cause—it’s about being a rebel with deep clarity.

Real-Life Examples of Micro-Rebellions

Here are some perfectly bite-sized yet bold ways people break the rules in beautiful, life-affirming ways:

✦ Saying “no” without explaining yourself.

You don’t owe anyone a spreadsheet of justifications. Declining an invitation, a task, or a conversation because it doesn’t serve your peace? Micro-rebellion. Glorious.

✦ Choosing rest over relentless productivity.

Taking a nap when your to-do list is breathing down your neck? Revolutionary. In a culture that worships hustle, rest is resistance.

✦ Wearing what makes you feel alive instead of “age-appropriate” outfits.

Burn the beige. Rock the leopard print. Life’s short, and your closet is a canvas.

✦ Ending a “meh” relationship that looks good on paper.

Maybe they’re perfectly nice. Maybe they tick all the boxes. But if they drain your energy and dull your sparkle? Walking away is a mic-drop moment.

✦ Changing careers in midlife (or later) when the world expects you to settle.

Who said reinvention has a sell-by date? Shifting gears at 45, 55, or 75 is not a crisis—it’s a power move.

✦ Telling the truth when it’s easier to stay silent.

Speaking up in meetings. Naming the elephant in the room. Advocating for your needs. These are small rebellions with seismic ripple effects.

✦ Unplugging from the news cycle for your mental health.

Not engaging in the daily doom scroll doesn’t make you ignorant—it makes you sane. Protecting your mind is a radical act.

Why Micro-Rebellions Matter Right Now

When the world feels chaotic, your nervous system craves a sense of agency. Micro-rebellions are tiny choices that say:
“I get to decide who I am and how I live.”
That’s incredibly grounding—and incredibly liberating.

They give you back your power, one decision at a time. And the best part? You don’t need anyone’s permission to begin.

Sometimes the boldest act of rebellion is saying, “I no longer want to be who I was.”

Business-as-Unusual

If you run a business or lead a team, you might be feeling pressure to “wait it out.” To stay the course. But what if this is the ideal moment to evolve and expand?

Outdated business models are collapsing under the weight of their own inflexibility. People are craving authenticity, agility, and humanity. That means there’s room now—glorious, messy, chaotic room—for innovation.

Not performative innovation. Not slap-a-new-logo-on-it innovation.

Real, courageous reimagining. Of how we serve, how we connect, how we lead.

So ask yourself:
What if the thing I’ve been scared to try is exactly what’s needed now?

Your New Compass: Curiosity beats Certainty

You don’t need a five-year plan right now. You need a compass, not a blueprint.

Let curiosity be your guide. Ask weird questions. Try ridiculous things. Follow the sparks, even if they don’t make sense yet.

Certainty is a lovely feeling. But in this season? It’s overrated.

What’s underrated?

  • Playfulness.
  • Resilience.
  • Being brave enough to change your mind.

Want Support While You Break Your Own Rules?

If you’re ready to reimagine life, career, or business—embark on a micro(or macro!) rebellion but you’re not sure where to start—I’ve got something that might interest you.

My course, How to Survive a Life Quake, is a self-paced, no-fluff, high-impact toolkit for navigating messy transitions with grace and grit.

It’s for thoughtful rebels, ambitious achievers, and quietly courageous souls who are ready to rewrite their story. Through seven soul-nourishing modules, we cover everything from calming your nervous system to breaking limiting patterns and crafting a bold new path—without burning yourself out in the process.

Because reinvention shouldn’t feel like punishment. It should feel like unlimited possibility.

Final Thought: The World Needs Innovators

If you’ve been waiting for permission to change everything, this is it.

Your uniqueness isn’t a liability—it’s your advantage. Your unconventional idea, your weird career pivot, your decision to ditch what no longer fits—these are the seeds of the future.

Let the old rules crumble to dust.

Let the false expectations melt.

Step into the wilderness, carrying nothing but your truth and maybe a good pair of walking shoes.

The world is reshaping itself. You might as well shape yourself too—intentionally, joyfully, and unapologetically.

“I can live with doubt and uncertainty and not knowing. I think it is much more interesting to live not knowing than to have answers that might be wrong. If we will only allow that, as we progress, we remain unsure, we will leave opportunities for alternatives. We will not become enthusiastic for the fact, the knowledge, the absolute truth of the day, but remain always uncertain … In order to make progress, one must leave the door to the unknown ajar.” ― Richard P. Feynman

In a world that feels increasingly unstable — politically, economically, emotionally — what will you do when the rug is pulled out from under you? That’s why I created Survive the Storm — a 7-part online course designed to be a lifeline during a life quake. This is your personal survival toolkit for uncertain times — lovingly crafted and packed with practical tools, emotional support, and soul-nourishing insights to help you stay grounded, resilient, and resourceful when everything around you feels like it’s falling apart. Enrol in How to Survive the Storm Protocol, with or without additional mentoring.

Author Bio: Dr Margaretha Montagu – described as a “game changer”, “gifted healer”, “guiding light” and “life-enriching author” – is an experienced medical doctor, a certified NLP practitioner, a medical hypnotherapist, an equine-assisted psychotherapist (EAGALAcertified) and a transformational retreat leader who guides her clients through life transitions – virtually, or with the assistance of her Friesian and Falabella horses, at their home in the southwest of France.

Might also be of interest:

Breaking the Rules: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Do Things Differently

Life Quake Survival Guide

Chaos as the Ultimate Muse

#LifeQuakeSurvivalGuide

Let’s face it: Between economic plot twists, climate curveballs, and the ever-looming “AI will steal your job” headlines, uncertainty has become our collective roommate. And let’s just say, it’s not great at doing the dishes.

But here’s the secret no one’s whispering at your Zoom happy hour: Chaos is the ultimate muse. History’s most brilliant innovations weren’t born in boardrooms with perfectly polished vision boards. They erupted from dumpster fires, recessions, and “oh-crap-now-what?” moments. So, grab your metaphorical fire extinguisher, and let’s explore why this hot mess of a moment is your golden ticket to rewriting the rules.

Because when stability is a mirage, waiting for “the right moment” becomes a trap. The people who thrive during these times aren’t the ones who play it safe. They’re the ones who say, “If it’s all up in the air anyway, why not toss in my own wild idea and see where it lands?”

1. Uncertainty: Source of Innovation

Remember when Netflix was just the awkward DVD-by-mail service that Blockbuster laughed at? Then the 2008 financial crisis hit, wallets snapped shut, and suddenly “stay home and watch a movie” became the national pastime. Cue Netflix’s pivot to streaming—a move so brilliantly timed it’s like they had a crystal ball.

Uncertainty does something fascinating to our brains: it forces us out of our comfortable ruts. When the well-worn path disappears, we’re forced to bushwhack. And guess what? That’s where the undiscovered opportunities become visible. Psychologists call this “adaptive innovation.” I call it “desperation meets creativity”—the mother of all invention.

2. Why Your Brain Loves a Good Crisis (Even If You Don’t)

Our brains are wired for efficiency. They love routines like toddlers love repetition—ask anyone who’s read Goodnight Moon 47 times. But here’s the kicker: crises short-circuit autopilot mode. Suddenly, the “we’ve always done it this way” mantra sounds less like wisdom and more like a death rattle.

Neuroscience shows that stress hormones, in moderate doses, sharpen focus and boost problem-solving. Think of it as your brain’s version of an espresso shot. When survival mode kicks in, we stop overthinking and start doing. Case in point: Airbnb. Born during the 2008 recession when its founders sold cereal to pay rent, they turned “Hey, wanna crash on my air mattress?” into a global empire. Because when your back’s against the wall, you’ll try anything—even trusting strangers with your couch.

3. How to Break Rules Like a Pro (Without Getting Fired)

Rule-breaking isn’t about anarchy—it’s about editing. Think of outdated norms as that cluttered junk drawer everyone ignores. Time to Marie Kondo the heck out of them. Here’s your playbook:

  • Question the “Sacred Cows”: Why do we work 9-5 if productivity peaks at 11 AM and 3 PM? Why must offices exist if your cat makes a better coworker than Dave from accounting? Challenge assumptions like a toddler on a sugar high.
  • Embrace “Good Enough”: Perfection is the enemy of progress. The first iPhone couldn’t copy-paste text. Did it matter? Nope. Launch now, tweak later.
  • Steal Like an Artist: Picasso said, “Good artists copy; great artists steal.” (Ironically, he stole that quote.) Adapt ideas from unrelated fields. Uber + healthcare = telemedicine. TikTok + education = bite-sized learning. You get the gist.

4. The Art of Productive Rebellion: When to Zig While Others Zag

Rebellion without strategy is just a tantrum. The key? Be a contrarian with a spreadsheet.

Take the pandemic’s remote work revolution. While some CEOs white-knuckled their return-to-office plans, forward-thinking companies went all-in on flexibility. Result? A talent exodus to employers who trusted people to adult without supervision. Lesson: Bet on autonomy, not attendance sheets.

Or consider Patagonia’s “Don’t Buy This Jacket” campaign. In a culture obsessed with consumption, they urged customers to repair gear instead. Sales soared. Why? Because authenticity stands out in a sea of sameness.

5. Fear Is Boring. Curiosity Is Your Superpower.

Let’s address the elephant in the room: fear. It’s that voice whispering, “What if you fail? What if people laugh? What if you end up living in a van down by the river?” (Thanks, Matt Foley.)

But here’s the truth: Uncertainty won’t kill you. Complacency might. The real risk isn’t falling—it’s never leaping. So, reframe fear as curiosity. Instead of “What if this goes wrong?” ask, “What if this goes right?”

When Spanx founder Sara Blakely started her shapewear empire, she cold-called manufacturers with zero experience. One finally agreed to help because, as he said, “You’re too dumb to know you’ll fail.” Sometimes ignorance isn’t bliss—it’s a business plan.

Ready to play rulebreaker? Let’s get tactical:

  1. Audit Your “Shoulds”: List 5 things you/your biz does “because we’ve always done them.” Burn the list. (Metaphorically. We’re not arsonists.)
  2. Host a “Worst Idea Ever” Brainstorm: Encourage terrible ideas. You’ll laugh, then stumble on brilliance.
  3. Find Your 10% Experiment Zone: Dedicate 10% of time/resources to testing wild ideas. Google did this with Gmail. You’re welcome.

The Bottom Line: The Future Favours the Flexible

Uncertainty isn’t an obstacle—it’s an opportunity. An invitation to shed what’s not working, to experiment boldly, and to trust that even missteps are data points. So, the next time the world feels like a dumpster fire, grab a marshmallow. Innovators don’t wait for calm seas; they learn to sail in storms.

“In detachment lies the wisdom of uncertainty… in the wisdom of uncertainty lies the freedom from our past, from the known, which is the prison of past conditioning. And in our willingness to step into the unknown, the field of all possibilities, we surrender ourselves to the creative mind that orchestrates the dance of the universe.” ― Deepak Chopra

Now, go break some rules. And if anyone complains, tell them the chaos made you do it. 😉

And if you have a few more minutes, I’ll tell you about my friend Elise Mercier, the Accidental Artist.

In the warm heart of Paris, Elise Mercier lived a meticulously ordered life. Her apartment was arranged with geometric precision, her schedule planned months in advance, her corporate career path mapped out with clear milestones. But beneath this carefully structured exterior resided a struggling artist with a head full of dreams whose canvases remained stubbornly blank.

For years, Elise had chased inspiration through conventional means—studying masters, attending workshops, creating strict daily painting routines after a full day’s work. Yet something essential was missing. Painting felt mechanical, devoid of the spark that turns technique into art. Gallery owners would smile politely at her meagre portfolio, offering vague encouragements that thinly veiled their disinterest.

Everything changed the day a sudden downpour destroyed her precious hand-made planner, washing away months of carefully noted appointments and deadlines. Standing in the rain with ink bleeding between her fingers, Elise experienced a moment of pure panic—followed by an unexpected sensation of lightness.

“What now?” she whispered to herself. For the first time in years, she didn’t know what came next.

That evening, she faced a blank canvas with no plan, no reference images, no concept. Just the unsettling question: what will emerge? Her brush moved with hesitant strokes, each one a question rather than a statement. Colours blended in ways she hadn’t intended. Forms appeared that she hadn’t consciously chosen.

The painting that emerged was unlike anything she’d created before—raw, vibrant, alive with a strange energy. It wasn’t technically perfect, but it possessed something her previous work had lacked: authenticity.

In the following weeks, Elise deliberately cultivated uncertainty in her creative process. She painted blindfolded. She used tools she’d never handled before. She set timers and forced herself to make rapid, irreversible decisions. Each constraint removed one more safety net, pushing her further into the creative unknown.

She began taking spontaneous trips to unfamiliar neighbourhoods, sketching strangers on subway cars, unintentionally wandering into performances of music she’d never heard before. Each new experience was a dive into uncertainty, each moment of discomfort a potential doorway to discovery.

Her new body of work attracted attention. A small gallery offered her a show, then a larger one. Critics used words like “fearless” and “authentic” to describe her paintings.

“My process is simple,” she explained during an interview. “I stay perpetually lost. Certainty is comfortable but creatively sterile. Uncertainty demands presence. It forces you to truly see, to truly feel, to truly respond.”

Years later, when students asked about her success, Elise would smile and tell them: “The muse isn’t some external entity waiting to bless you with inspiration. The muse is that moment when you stand at the edge of what you know and take one step further. It’s the flutter in your stomach when you can’t predict what comes next. Most artists try to eliminate uncertainty. I learned to cultivate it, to dance with it, to let it lead me places I could never reach through planning alone.”

Her studio door bore a small plaque with words that had become her mantra: “The Uncertainty Artist.”

Ready to start again, stronger than ever before? This quiz will help you find out. It is not just about measuring where you are right now; it’s about shining a light on the areas of your life that feel meaningful, as well as those that might need attention. It’s an opportunity to reflect, recalibrate, and take steps toward a life that’s not only successful but profoundly fulfilling. Take The Quiz

Author Bio: Dr Margaretha Montagu – described as a “game changer”, “gifted healer”, “guiding light” and “life-enriching author” – is an experienced medical doctor, a certified NLP practitioner, a medical hypnotherapist, an equine-assisted psychotherapist (EAGALAcertified) and a transformational retreat leader who guides her clients through life transitions – virtually, or with the assistance of her Friesian and Falabella horses, at their home in the southwest of France.

Might also be of interest:

Calm in the Eye of the Storm: Cultivating Inner Peace in a World Gone Mad

Life Quake Survival Guide

The secret to staying calm when everything else is falling apart.

#LifeQuakeSurvivalGuide

Let’s be brutally honest: the world right now feels like someone handed the steering wheel to a caffeinated squirrel. Political tension? Check. Economic turmoil? Double check. Environmental disasters, AI meltdowns, conspiracy theories, inflation, deflation, and occasional sightings of logic-defying headlines? Oh, we’re swimming in it.

And amidst all of this chaos, someone (probably clutching a turmeric latte and wearing linen) is going to chirp, “You just need to find your inner peace.” Which makes you want to gently (or not so gently) launch said latte into orbit.

But here’s the twist: they’re not entirely wrong. The challenge isn’t in denying the madness of the world—because, let’s face it, madness is the current currency. The challenge is learning how to remain calm in spite of it. Becoming the calm center of your own personal cyclone. The eye of the storm.

And, believe it or not, it’s possible. Not by pretending everything is fine, or chanting mantras while the house burns down, but by cultivating a kind of grounded presence that helps you weather the mess. Inner peace isn’t about ignoring reality—it’s about refusing to let it hijack your nervous system.

So let’s talk about how to be serene without being a saint, wise without being woo-woo, and solid even when the ground is shifting beneath your feet.

First, Let’s Acknowledge the Madness

Before we go all zen-master, let’s be real about something: the world is genuinely scary right now. Whether you’re worried about your savings, your sanity, or just finding toilet paper at a reasonable price, you’re not overreacting. You’re responding like a human with a brain wired for survival.

Our nervous systems weren’t built for 24/7 doomscrolling. They were built for quick sprints from saber-toothed tigers—not enduring a constant barrage of “breaking news” and decisions about whether you should be investing in gold bars or canned beans.

The good news? Once we understand what’s happening in our minds and bodies, we can actually do something about it.

The Science of Stillness: What Neuroscience Says

When chaos hits, your amygdala—the brain’s fear centre—lights up like a Christmas tree. It triggers your fight-flight-freeze response, and suddenly everything feels urgent, personal, and potentially catastrophic. Your rational brain? Offline. Your inner calm? Running for the hills.

But here’s where it gets fascinating: we can train our brains to override that panic.

Neuroscientific studies show that mindfulness practices—such as breathwork, body scans, and even mindful walking—can calm the amygdala, increase activity in the prefrontal cortex (aka your wise adult brain), and regulate the nervous system.

Even just one minute of deep breathing sends a message to your body that you’re safe, which allows clarity, creativity, and calm to return. It’s not magic—it’s biology. And it’s incredibly empowering.

Borrowing Some Horse Sense

This might sound left-field, but hang with me: horses are masters of staying grounded. They don’t get worked up about inflation or who’s leading the polls. They live in the present moment—fully, unapologetically, and with an unwavering awareness of their environment.

When humans spend time around horses, especially in mindful silence, something shifts. Our breath slows. Our posture softens. Our thoughts stop stampeding. Why? Because horses co-regulate with calm beings, and they expect presence in return.

You don’t need to own a horse to learn from this. But you can practice “horse-like mindfulness”—becoming aware of your body, your breath, your surroundings. Standing still and feeling your feet on the ground. It sounds simple, but it’s wildly effective. We borrow a bit of horse wisdom (minus the hay), a bit of neuroscience, and a whole lot of humour to help you become unshakably grounded, even in the middle of chaos.

In fact, this principle is a big part of my How to Survive a Life Quake course.

The Three Layers of Inner Peace

So how do you actually cultivate peace that lasts longer than a lavender-scented bath bomb? I like to think of it in three layers:

1. Physical Grounding

Your body is your first anchor. If your nervous system is spinning out, go for a walk. Stretch. Splash cold water on your face. Eat something nourishing. Get outside. Hug a tree (yes, really). When your body feels safe, your brain starts to follow suit.

Try this micro-practice:
Take five deep breaths. With each exhale, imagine dropping your awareness a little lower—from your head to your chest, to your belly, down to your feet. Feel yourself land in your body.

2. Mental Clarity

This isn’t about pretending everything’s fine. It’s about giving your overworked brain a break from its catastrophic narratives.

Limit your exposure to the news. Seriously. It’s okay not to refresh your feed every 17 minutes. Curate your inputs—podcasts, articles, people—that nourish rather than drain you.

And when you catch yourself spiraling out of control, ask: Is this helpful? Is this true? Is this mine to carry? If the answer is no, it’s okay to let that thought go. I give you full permission to mentally unsubscribe from anything that feels like a psychic energy vampire.

3. Emotional Resilience

Emotions are natural—but letting them hijack your day is optional. Learn to name what you’re feeling (“I’m anxious,” “I’m angry,” “I’m overwhelmed”) without letting it define you.

You’re not your fear. You’re the space holding the fear. That space is wiser, calmer, and far more powerful than we often give it credit for.

Journaling helps. So does talking with someone who won’t try to fix you—just witness you. (And no, your cat doesn’t count, although they are excellent listeners.)

Community Is a Calm Amplifier

Yes, solitude can be healing. But too much isolation, especially when the world feels unsafe, can send you into a lonely feedback loop of fear.

Surround yourself with people who help you feel more like yourself—not the performative, got-it-all-together version, but the messy, human, deeply loveable version. The friends who’ll text you memes and hold space for your existential spiral. That’s your inner circle. Hold them close.

In my How to Survive a Life Quake course, you’ll find powerful tools and gentle guidance to help you navigate uncertainty with a lot less panic. It’s not therapy, and it’s definitely not a pity party. It’s a self-paced journey designed to give you practical strategies, meaningful rituals, and the kind of perspective shifts that make you exhale and think, “Okay… I’ve got this.”

What the Eye of the Storm Really Feels Like

People think calm means becoming immune to the world. It doesn’t.

Being the eye of the storm isn’t about denial or detachment—it’s about rootedness. You see the chaos. You feel the fear. But you don’t let it carry you away.

Inner peace doesn’t mean your life is perfect. It means you trust yourself to respond with wisdom, even when things get messy. It’s a quiet confidence, a sense that no matter what happens, you’ll find your footing.

And if you wobble? That’s okay. Peace isn’t a static state—it’s a choice. Sometimes, a really stubborn one.

Final Thoughts: Peace Is Your Superpower

In a world addicted to panic, cultivating calm is a revolutionary act.

When you choose to be calm in the eye of the storm, you don’t just protect your own well-being—you become a beacon for others. A reminder that even now, in all this madness, peace can still be found.

And sometimes, it starts with a single breath.

So take one now.

And remember—you’ve got this.

And I’ve got your back.

In a world that feels increasingly unstable — politically, economically, emotionally — what will you do when the rug is pulled out from under you? That’s why I created Survive the Storm — a 7-part online course designed to be a lifeline during a life quake. This is your personal survival toolkit for uncertain times — lovingly crafted and packed with practical tools, emotional support, and soul-nourishing insights to help you stay grounded, resilient, and resourceful when everything around you feels like it’s falling apart. Enrol in How to Survive the Storm Protocol, with or without additional mentoring.

“I am an experienced medical doctor – MBChB, MRCGP, NLP master pract cert, Transformational Life Coach (dip.) Life Story Coach (cert.) Counselling (cert.) Med Hypnotherapy (dip.) and EAGALA (cert.) I may have an impressive number of letters after my name, and more than three decades of professional experience, but what qualifies me to excel at what I do is my intuitive understanding of my clients’ difficulties and my extensive personal experience of managing major life changes using strategies I developed over many years” Dr M Montagu

Decision Fatigue Is Disastrous

Life Quake Survival Guide

How to Think Clearly When Everything Feels Unclear

#LifeQuakeSurvivalGuide

Introduction

Why your brain is tired—and how to fix it.

Let’s be honest: in a world where even deciding whether to stockpile pasta feels like a monumental life choice, our brains are screaming for mercy. Between major decisions—like switching careers or moving across the country—and everyday dilemmas, like choosing between penne and fusilli (or whether to even buy pasta at all), it’s no wonder our mental energy is running low.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re standing at the crossroads of uncertainty, paralysed by the sheer number of options (and more importantly, the potential consequences of making the wrong one), you’re not alone. Decision fatigue is as real as that moment when you realise you’ve just spent 20 minutes scrolling through endless online shopping options for something you don’t really need. And trust me, in these unpredictable times, our minds need a break.

In this article, we’re going to explore why our decision-making machinery gets overloaded and, more importantly, how to fix it with some brain-friendly strategies. So, kick off those shoes, pour yourself a cup of something delicious, and let’s dive into a conversation about reclaiming your mental clarity.

The Brain on Overdrive: Why Decision Fatigue Happens

Imagine your brain as a smartphone with a battery that’s just a little too small. Every decision you make—whether it’s choosing what to wear, what to eat, or what life-altering career move to take—drains a bit of that battery. Over time, the battery dwindles until it’s barely holding a charge.

Decision fatigue is the mental exhaustion that results from making too many decisions. It’s why by the end of a long day, you might find yourself ordering takeout without a second thought or skipping that gym session because the idea of choosing a workout feels overwhelming. When your decision-making capacity is maxed out, even trivial choices seem monumental.

And let’s be real—these days, our lives are a never-ending buffet of decisions. Every headline, every notification, every “urgent” email demands that precious energy. Our brains aren’t wired to handle an endless stream of choices, and that’s where decision fatigue rears its tired head.

The High Stakes of Everyday Choices

It’s easy to think of decision fatigue as only affecting the big-ticket choices. But even the small, seemingly inconsequential decisions add up. When you’re deciding whether to spend your last few minutes of free time watching one more episode or reading that book, or even choosing which pasta shape to stock up on during a supply run, every single decision takes a toll.

These daily decisions may seem trivial in isolation, but collectively, they contribute to a constant state of mental overload. And when uncertainty looms large—like during a global crisis or an economic downturn—every choice feels even more loaded with potential consequences.

Strategies to Recharge Your Decision-Making Battery

So, how can you protect your brain from turning into a fried, overworked mess? Here are some practical, brain-friendly strategies to help you think clearly when everything feels unclear.

1. Simplify Your Options

One of the easiest ways to combat decision fatigue is to reduce the number of choices you have to make. Marie Kondo your decision-making process. Here’s how:

  • Streamline your wardrobe. Stick to a capsule collection so that every morning you’re not staring blankly at an overflowing closet.
  • Plan your meals. Create a weekly menu instead of deciding on the fly. It not only saves mental energy but might also improve your nutrition.
  • Automate recurring decisions. Use apps or routines for daily tasks like scheduling, budgeting, or even setting reminders for when it’s time to relax.

When you limit your options, you free up valuable brainpower for the decisions that truly matter.

2. Prioritise and Delegate

Not all decisions are created equal. Some have a profound impact on your life, while others—like what socks to wear—can be delegated or even outsourced (hello, sock subscription services!).

Focus your energy on the big, high-impact decisions and allow yourself to let go of the minor ones. In your personal and professional life, learn to delegate tasks when possible. Whether it’s asking a trusted friend for advice or using decision-making frameworks like “the Eisenhower Box” to prioritise tasks, remember that you don’t have to shoulder every burden alone.

3. Establish Routines

Routines are the secret sauce for preserving mental energy. When your daily life is structured, many decisions become automatic, allowing your brain to rest and recharge. Consider building routines around:

  • Morning rituals. A set routine for waking up, having breakfast, and planning your day can reduce the morning rush and decision overload.
  • Evening wind-downs. Creating a calming bedtime routine helps you transition from a busy day to a restful night, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to make decisions again.
  • Work habits. Batch similar tasks together and take regular breaks. The Pomodoro Technique, for example, encourages short bursts of focused work followed by a break, which can help sustain your mental stamina.

4. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness isn’t just for meditation gurus or yoga enthusiasts—it’s a powerful tool for managing decision fatigue. By practising mindfulness, you can learn to observe your thoughts without getting caught up in them, reducing anxiety and overthinking.

Try incorporating short mindfulness breaks into your day. Even a few minutes of deep breathing or a mindful walk can help clear your mind and restore a sense of balance. Remember, sometimes the best decision is to take a step back, breathe deeply, and give yourself permission to pause.

5. Set Clear Boundaries with Information

In today’s digital age, we’re bombarded with information 24/7. It’s no wonder our brains feel like they’re running on empty! One way to combat decision fatigue is to set boundaries around the information you consume.

  • Schedule news time. Instead of constantly refreshing your news feed, designate specific times of the day to catch up on current events.
  • Limit notifications. Turn off non-essential alerts on your phone and computer. Your brain doesn’t need to know every time someone “likes” your post.
  • Curate your sources. Stick to a few reliable sources instead of trying to keep up with every headline from every corner of the internet.

By controlling the flow of information, you can prevent your mind from becoming overwhelmed and ensure that your decisions are based on what truly matters, not on fleeting trends or sensationalism.

Embracing Imperfection in Decision-Making

Let’s be real—no one makes perfect decisions all the time. Even the most successful, seemingly decisive people have had their share of missteps and regrets. The trick is not to strive for perfection but to embrace imperfection and learn from it.

Allow yourself to make mistakes without the burden of perfectionism. When faced with uncertainty, remind yourself that every decision, even a less-than-perfect one, is an opportunity to learn and grow. Each choice builds resilience, and over time, you’ll find that your ability to navigate uncertainty improves.

It’s also important to give yourself a break. If you’ve had a day where every decision felt like a Herculean task, that’s okay. Recognise that your brain, like any machine, has limits—and sometimes, the best choice is to simply rest and recharge.

Decision Fatigue: A Call to Self-Care

In these unpredictable times, taking care of your mental well-being isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Decision fatigue is not a sign of weakness; it’s a signal that you need to pause, simplify, and nurture yourself.

Remember to practice self-care in all its forms. Whether it’s a quiet moment with a good book, a long walk in nature, or even a well-deserved nap, these acts of self-kindness recharge your mental battery and prepare you for the decisions ahead.

A Final Thought: The Art of Letting Go

When everything feels unclear and your mind is overwhelmed with choices, sometimes the smartest move is to let go of the need to decide immediately. Trust that clarity will come with time. The art of decision-making isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting yourself to navigate the uncertainty with courage, wisdom, and a little bit of humour.

In a world that’s constantly changing, learn to celebrate small wins and give yourself permission to rest. Each step you take, no matter how tiny, moves you closer to a clearer, calmer state of mind. And remember: you’re not alone in this journey.

So, next time you find yourself staring blankly at a shelf of pasta varieties or wrestling with a life-altering decision, take a deep breath, simplify your options, and step back. Your brain deserves a break—and so do you.


In these chaotic times, nurturing your mental energy is one of the bravest, most necessary acts of self-care you can offer yourself. With a few strategic adjustments and a mindset geared toward simplicity, you can overcome decision fatigue and reclaim your clarity. After all, sometimes the best decision is to give your brain a much-needed vacation.

In a world that feels increasingly unstable — politically, economically, emotionally — what will you do when the rug is pulled out from under you? That’s why I created Survive the Storm — a 7-part online course designed to be a lifeline during a life quake. This is your personal survival toolkit for uncertain times — lovingly crafted and packed with practical tools, emotional support, and soul-nourishing insights to help you stay grounded, resilient, and resourceful when everything around you feels like it’s falling apart. Enrol in How to Survive the Storm Protocol, with or without additional mentoring.

“I am an experienced medical doctor – MBChB, MRCGP, NLP master pract cert, Transformational Life Coach (dip.) Life Story Coach (cert.) Counselling (cert.) Med Hypnotherapy (dip.) and EAGALA (cert.) I may have an impressive number of letters after my name, and more than three decades of professional experience, but what qualifies me to excel at what I do is my intuitive understanding of my clients’ difficulties and my extensive personal experience of managing major life changes using strategies I developed over many years” Dr M Montagu

The Ten Terrifying (Yet Terribly Common) Stages of Life Transitions, Chanlenges and Crises

Survivor’s Guide

Life transitions are not linear but nonlinear, and highly individualised. They involve both external changes and internal psychological adjustments. Effective navigation often requires resilience, adaptability, social support, and reflective practices to integrate new identities or roles successfully.

Currently, the most frequently used staging is William Bridges’ Transition Model. This model focuses on the psychological process of transition rather than the external change itself. It identifies three stages:

  • The New Beginning: Marks the integration of new roles, identities, or habits, accompanied by a sense of renewal and purpose
  • Ending, Losing, Letting Go: Involves processing the loss of the old identity or situation.
  • The Neutral Zone: A period of uncertainty and exploration, where individuals feel “in-between.”

Personal experience has taught me that the process is a bit more complicated (and often more repetitive) than Willian Bridges’ model. Below you’ll find my own version, the 10 Stages of Life Transitions, with anecdotal illustrations.

If you’ve ever gone through a major life change yourself, you know that transitions are messier than a toddler with a spaghetti dinner. They’re chaotic, unpredictable, and about as linear as a pollen-drunk honeybee’s flight path.

The truth is, that meaningful life transitions drag us through not three, but ten distinct stages of emotional turmoil, personal growth, and occasional public embarrassment. Understanding these stages won’t necessarily make your next big change any easier, but it might give you the comfort of knowing that your particular brand of transition-induced madness is, in fact, perfectly normal.

So grab your emotional support beverage of choice and let’s dive into the ten terrifying (yet terribly common) stages of life transitions that nobody warns you about but everyone experiences.

Stage 1: Frozen Immobility

The Deer in Headlights Phase: When Your Brain Goes on Vacation Without You

Ah, immobilization. That delightful moment when change crashes into your life like a toddler into a carefully arranged display of crystal glassware. Your brain short-circuits, your body freezes, and suddenly you’re about as functional as a chocolate teapot.

Take my friend Marcus, for instance. Marcus was a mid-level manager at a tech company when his boss called him in for what he assumed would be a routine meeting. Instead, he was offered a promotion to head an entirely new division—complete with a substantial raise, a corner office, and five times the responsibility.

A dream come true, right? Well, according to Marcus, his immediate response was to stare blankly at his boss for so long that she eventually asked if he needed medical attention. When he finally managed to speak, all he could muster was, “But where would I park?”

Not “Thank you.” Not “What would my responsibilities be?” Just deep concern about parking logistics. The human brain is a marvel.

After accepting the promotion (and sorting out his parking situation), Marcus spent the next three days in a state of such complete paralysis that he accomplished exactly nothing at work. He sat at his desk, staring at his computer screen, occasionally typing random letters into documents just to appear busy, while his mind raced through every conceivable way he could fail spectacularly in his new role.

This immobilization stage is our brain’s way of processing shock. It’s the cognitive equivalent of your computer showing the spinning wheel of death—technically still on, but not processing any new information. And while it feels uniquely humiliating when it happens to you, rest assured that even the most composed individuals have their moments of deer-in-headlights panic when faced with significant change.

The good news? This stage typically doesn’t last long. The bad news? What comes next isn’t much better.

Read the rest of the article

Decision Fatigue and Its Far-reaching Consequences

Life Quake Survival Guide

How to Think Clearly When Your Brain Feels Foggy

#LifeQuakeSurvivalGuide

Why your brain is tired—and how to fix it.

Let’s be honest: in a world where even deciding whether to stockpile pasta feels like a sensible life choice, our brains are screaming for mercy. Between major decisions—like switching careers or moving across the country—and everyday dilemmas, like choosing between penne and fusilli (or whether to even buy pasta at all), it’s no wonder our mental energy is running on fumes.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re standing at the crossroads of uncertainty, paralysed by the sheer number of options (and more importantly, the potential consequences of making the wrong one), you’re not alone. Decision fatigue is as real as that moment when you realise you’ve just spent 20 minutes scrolling through endless online shopping options for something you don’t really need. And trust me, in these unpredictable times, our minds need a break.

In this article, we’re going to explore why our decision-making machinery gets so tired and, more importantly, how to fix it with some brain-friendly strategies. So, kick off those shoes, pour yourself a cup of something delicious, and let’s dive into a conversation about reclaiming your mental clarity.

The Brain on Overdrive: Why Decision Fatigue Happens

Imagine your brain as a smartphone with a battery that’s just a little too small. Every decision you make—whether it’s choosing what to wear, what to eat, or what life-altering career move to take—drains a bit of that battery. Over time, the battery dwindles until it’s barely holding a charge.

Decision fatigue is the mental exhaustion that results from making too many decisions. It’s why by the end of a long day, you might find yourself ordering takeout without a second thought or skipping that gym session because the idea of choosing a workout feels overwhelming. When your decision-making capacity is maxed out, even trivial choices seem monumental.

And let’s be real—these days, our lives are a never-ending buffet of decisions. Every headline, every notification, every “urgent” email demands that precious energy. Our brains aren’t wired to handle an endless stream of choices, and that’s where decision fatigue rears its tired head.

The High Stakes of Everyday Choices

It’s easy to think of decision fatigue as only affecting the big-ticket choices. But even the small, seemingly inconsequential decisions add up. When you’re deciding whether to spend your last few minutes of free time watching one more episode or reading that book, or even choosing which pasta shape to stock up on during a supply run, every single decision takes a toll.

These daily decisions may seem trivial in isolation, but collectively, they contribute to a constant state of mental overload. And when uncertainty looms large—like during a global crisis or an economic downturn—every choice feels even more loaded with potential consequences.

Strategies to Recharge Your Decision-Making Battery

So, how can you protect your brain from turning into a fried, overworked mess? Here are some practical, brain-friendly strategies to help you think clearly when everything feels unclear.

1. Simplify Your Options

One of the easiest ways to combat decision fatigue is to reduce the number of choices you have to make. Marie Kondo your decision-making process. Here’s how:

  • Streamline your wardrobe. Stick to a capsule collection so that every morning you’re not staring blankly at an overflowing closet.
  • Plan your meals. Create a weekly menu instead of deciding on the fly. It not only saves mental energy but might also improve your nutrition.
  • Automate recurring decisions. Use apps or routines for daily tasks like scheduling, budgeting, or even setting reminders for when it’s time to relax.

When you limit your options, you free up valuable brainpower for the decisions that truly matter.

2. Prioritise and Delegate

Not all decisions are created equal. Some have a profound impact on your life, while others—like what socks to wear—can be delegated or even outsourced (hello, sock subscription services!).

Focus your energy on the big, high-impact decisions and allow yourself to let go of the minor ones. In your personal and professional life, learn to delegate tasks when possible. Whether it’s asking a trusted friend for advice or using decision-making frameworks like “the Eisenhower Box” to prioritise tasks, remember that you don’t have to shoulder every burden alone.

3. Establish Routines

Routines are the secret sauce for preserving mental energy. When your daily life is structured, many decisions become automatic, allowing your brain to rest and recharge. Consider building routines around:

  • Morning rituals. A set routine for waking up, having breakfast, and planning your day can reduce the morning rush and decision overload.
  • Evening wind-downs. Creating a calming bedtime routine helps you transition from a busy day to a restful night, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to make decisions again.
  • Work habits. Batch similar tasks together and take regular breaks. The Pomodoro Technique, for example, encourages short bursts of focused work followed by a break, which can help sustain your mental stamina.

4. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness isn’t just for meditation gurus or yoga enthusiasts—it’s a powerful tool for managing decision fatigue. By practising mindfulness, you can learn to observe your thoughts without getting caught up in them, reducing anxiety and overthinking.

Try incorporating short mindfulness breaks into your day. Even a few minutes of deep breathing or a mindful walk can help clear your mind and restore a sense of balance. Remember, sometimes the best decision is to take a step back, breathe deeply, and give yourself permission to pause.

5. Set Clear Boundaries with Information

In today’s digital age, we’re bombarded with information 24/7. It’s no wonder our brains feel like they’re running on empty! One way to combat decision fatigue is to set boundaries around the information you consume.

  • Schedule news time. Instead of constantly refreshing your news feed, designate specific times of the day to catch up on current events.
  • Limit notifications. Turn off non-essential alerts on your phone and computer. Your brain doesn’t need to know every time someone “likes” your post.
  • Curate your sources. Stick to a few reliable sources instead of trying to keep up with every headline from every corner of the internet.

By controlling the flow of information, you can prevent your mind from becoming overwhelmed and ensure that your decisions are based on what truly matters, not on fleeting trends or sensationalism.

Embracing Imperfection in Decision-Making

Let’s be real—no one makes perfect decisions all the time. Even the most successful, seemingly decisive people have had their share of missteps and regrets. The trick is not to strive for perfection but to embrace imperfection and learn from it.

Allow yourself to make mistakes without the burden of perfectionism. When faced with uncertainty, remind yourself that every decision, even a less-than-perfect one, is an opportunity to learn and grow. Each choice builds resilience, and over time, you’ll find that your ability to navigate uncertainty improves.

It’s also important to go easy on yourself. If you’ve had a day where every decision felt like a Herculean task, that’s okay. Recognize that your brain, like any machine, has limits—and sometimes, the best choice is to simply rest and recharge.

Decision Fatigue: A Self-Care Wake-Up Call

In these unpredictable times, taking care of your mental well-being isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Decision fatigue is not a sign of weakness; it’s a signal that you need to pause, simplify, and nurture yourself.

Remember to practice self-care in all its forms. Whether it’s a quiet moment with a good book, a long walk in nature, or even a well-deserved nap, these acts of self-kindness recharge your mental battery and prepare you for the decisions ahead.

A Final Thought: The Art of Letting Go

When everything feels unclear and your mind is overwhelmed with choices, sometimes the smartest move is to let go of the need to decide immediately. Trust that clarity will come with time. The art of decision-making isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting yourself to navigate the uncertainty with courage, wisdom, and a little bit of humour.

In a world that’s constantly changing, learn to celebrate small wins and give yourself permission to rest. Each step you take, no matter how tiny, moves you closer to a clearer, calmer state of mind. And remember: you’re not alone in this journey.

So, next time you find yourself staring blankly at a shelf of pasta varieties or wrestling with a life-altering decision, take a deep breath, simplify your options, and step back. Your brain deserves a break—and so do you.

In these chaotic times, nurturing your mental energy is one of the bravest, most necessary acts of self-care you can offer yourself. With a few strategic adjustments and a mindset geared toward simplicity, you can overcome decision fatigue and reclaim your clarity. After all, sometimes the best decision is to give your brain a much-needed vacation.

Stay curious, stay kind to yourself, and keep moving forward—one thoughtful decision at a time. And if you need any support or inspiration, consider enrolling in my How to Survive a Life Quake online course, with or without coaching.

In a world that feels increasingly unstable — politically, economically, emotionally — what will you do when the rug is pulled out from under you? That’s why I created Survive the Storm — a 7-part online course designed to be a lifeline during a life quake. This is your personal survival toolkit for uncertain times — lovingly crafted and packed with practical tools, emotional support, and soul-nourishing insights to help you stay grounded, resilient, and resourceful when everything around you feels like it’s falling apart. Enrol in How to Survive the Storm Protocol, with or without additional mentoring.

“I am an experienced medical doctor – MBChB, MRCGP, NLP master pract cert, Transformational Life Coach (dip.) Life Story Coach (cert.) Counselling (cert.) Med Hypnotherapy (dip.) and EAGALA (cert.) I may have an impressive number of letters after my name, and more than three decades of professional experience, but what qualifies me to excel at what I do is my intuitive understanding of my clients’ difficulties and my extensive personal experience of managing major life changes using strategies I developed over many years” Dr M Montagu

Friendship in Times of Turmoil

Life Quake Survival Guide

Sustain Your Support System

#LifeQuakeSurvivalGuide

Because no one should try to navigate chaos without snacks and someone who gets your memes.

If there’s one thing the last few years have taught us, it’s that life is unpredictable.

Political unrest? Check.
Economic uncertainty? Present.
Existential crises sprinkled like confetti on an already unstable cake? Oh yes.

But amid all this mountainous mess, there’s one thing that makes the whole chaotic show more bearable: good, salt-of-the-earth people.

Not perfect people. Not necessarily people who can solve your problems or who agree with you on every single thing. But the kind of people who make your heart melt. The kind of people who don’t flinch when you ugly cry or spiral into a rant about the price of avocados and the meaning of life.
In short? Your people.

So let’s talk about that—how to find, nurture, and fiercely protect your support system when the world feels like it’s being held together by duct tape and vibes.

Your Inner Circle: An Easily-Accessible Emergency Kit

Forget stockpiling canned beans (unless you like that sort of thing). Your most important emergency supply is your relationships.

Whether you’re facing job uncertainty, going through a major life transition, or simply trying to stay sane while the world tilts precariously, the quality of the people around you is a better predictor of your resilience than any productivity hack, vision board, or fancy supplement.

And yet—how often do we neglect our friendships when life gets “busy”?
Or worse, cling to ones that drain us because we’ve had them forever, even though the vibe now resembles an awkward family reunion with someone you barely remember?

Here’s the truth:
In turbulent times, it’s not just who you are that matters. It’s who you’re with.

How to Spot the Ones to Invest In (Hint: They Bring Perspective)

Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of hard times:

  • The friend who doesn’t just ask, “How are you?” but then actually listens.
  • The one who shows up with food, tissues, and sarcasm when your world implodes.
  • The one who will call you out lovingly when you start catastrophising or forgetting who the hell you are.

These are your inner circle people.
And if you’ve got even one of them, you’re wealthier than most.

Here’s how to identify them:

  • You feel seen, not judged.
  • They energise you, not deplete you.
  • You can be messy, contradictory, and mid-crisis, and they don’t try to fix you—they just sit beside you in the muck.

This isn’t about assembling a perfect social circle. It’s about cultivating real connections in a world full of curated performances.

Cultivate Your Circle (Because Relationships Need Watering, Not Just WiFi)

Even the best friendships need a bit of effort to stay strong—especially when stress is high and everyone’s emotional bandwidth is about the size of a novelty cocktail umbrella.

So, how do we stay connected when everyone’s tired, overwhelmed, and wondering if they left their sanity in their other handbag?

A few ideas:

1. Reach Out Imperfectly

Don’t wait until you have the perfect window of time or the right words. Send the weird voice note. Text “thinking of you” even if it’s 2am. Imperfect connection is better than radio silence.

2. Ask Better Questions

Instead of the classic “how are you?” try:

  • “What’s been heavy for you this week?”
  • “What’s been surprisingly good lately?”
  • “What’s the weirdest thing that happened to you today?”

Trust me, you’ll learn a lot more.

3. Be Brave Enough to Be Vulnerable

Say when you’re struggling. Ask for help (I know, I know). Share the ugly truth. Vulnerability is what deepens trust and builds bonds that last longer than a political cycle.

Making New Friends as an Adult (aka The Real Hunger Games)

Making friends as an adult is a bit like dating, but with more social awkwardness and fewer apps.

Still, it’s possible. In fact, it’s essential. If you’ve outgrown some old relationships or find yourself craving more aligned connections, don’t panic—it’s not too late.

Here’s where to start:

  • Follow your interests. Join a book club, a pottery class, a hiking group, or a weird niche event involving fermented food. Your people are where your passions live.
  • Be the first to make a move. Say hi. Invite someone for coffee. Compliment their shoes. Will you feel awkward? Absolutely. Do it anyway.
  • Don’t expect instant intimacy. Deep friendship takes time, repetition, and shared experiences. Let it unfold slowly. Don’t force it—just show up.

And remember: just like with dating, you might not click with everyone—and that’s okay. Don’t take it personally. Just keep walking until you find your tribe.

When to Let Go (with Love and Boundaries)

Let’s address the uncomfortable truth: some friendships aren’t meant to come with us through every season.

You might have relationships that:

  • Drain you emotionally.
  • Belittle your growth.
  • Make you feel smaller when you’re trying to rise.

You don’t need to make dramatic exits or write long breakup monologues (unless you want to). But you can gently loosen your grip on people who no longer align with where you’re going.

Letting go doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful. It means you’re honouring the truth of who you are now—and the space you need to become who you’re becoming.

Support Systems for the Big Shifts

Here’s the thing: friendships aren’t just there for brunch and birthday cards.
They’re part of the scaffolding that holds you together when life throws its most dramatic plot twists.

Whether you’re navigating a divorce, an empty nest, a career upheaval, or a massive what-am-I-doing-with-my-life wobble—your support system can be your life raft.

And if you’re smack in the middle of a Life Quake (those seismic shake-ups that level life as you knew it)—you don’t have to stumble through it solo.

That’s exactly why I created How to Survive a Life Quake—an online course designed to help you find your footing, process the chaos, and build a more meaningful, purpose-driven life on the other side.

It’s practical.
It’s comforting.
It’s a little bit cheeky.
(And no one makes you meditate in a cave unless that’s your thing.)

You’ll get tools to move through transition with more grace, strength, and clarity—and a lot less spiralling.

If that sounds like something your future self would thank you for, check it out.

Friendship Isn’t a Luxury. It’s Essential for Survival.

In seasons of upheaval, it’s easy to focus on what we’re losing—control, certainty, routines, jobs, identities.

But friendship reminds us of what’s still steady. Still real. Still possible.

Your people remind you:

  • That you’re not alone.
  • That you’re not crazy (or at least, you’re crazy in good company).
  • That life, even in chaos, can still be full of laughter, connection, and meaning.

Final Word: Who’s in Your Corner?

You don’t have to do life alone.
Especially not now.
Especially not while everything’s shifting, stretching, and occasionally unraveling.

So check in with your circle.
Reach out.
Say the thing.
Make the plan.
Open the door.

And if you’re still building your village—keep going.
Your people are looking for you too.

On the Blog:

In a world that feels increasingly unstable — politically, economically, emotionally — what will you do when the rug is pulled out from under you? That’s why I created Survive the Storm — a 7-part online course designed to be a lifeline during a life quake. This is your personal survival toolkit for uncertain times — lovingly crafted and packed with practical tools, emotional support, and soul-nourishing insights to help you stay grounded, resilient, and resourceful when everything around you feels like it’s falling apart. Enrol in How to Survive the Storm Protocol, with or without additional mentoring.

Author Bio: Dr Margaretha Montagu – described as a “game changer”, “gifted healer”, “guiding light” and “life-enriching author” – is an experienced medical doctor, a certified NLP practitioner, a medical hypnotherapist, an equine-assisted psychotherapist (EAGALAcertified) and a transformational retreat leader who guides her clients through life transitions – virtually, or with the assistance of her Friesian and Falabella horses, at their home in the southwest of France.

The Great Unplugging: Intentionally, Strategically, and Unapologetically

Life Quake Survival Guide

Surviving a 24/7 news cycle without losing your mind.

#LifeQuakeSurvivalGuide

Let’s be honest: if the world gets any more chaotic, I may have to take up knitting just to feel like something is still holding together.

Every time you open your phone, there’s a fresh wave of political drama, economic doomscrolling, or moral outrage being served up with a side of catastrophic climate updates. And we haven’t even mentioned the comment sections. Those are a special kind of purgatory.

If you’ve been feeling anxious, angry, disillusioned, or downright exhausted lately—congratulations, you’re still human. But if you’re also feeling guilty for needing a break from it all, that’s where we need to have a chat.

Because here’s the radical suggestion of the day:
Maybe the bravest, smartest thing you can do right now is to unplug.
Not forever. Not irresponsibly.
But intentionally, strategically, and unapologetically.

Information Fatigue Is Real (and Your Brain Is Not a Bottomless Inbox)

Let’s call a spade a spade: we are overdosing on information.

Once upon a time, you’d get your news from a trusted 30-minute broadcast or the morning paper. Now, it’s a constant intravenous drip of “BREAKING” banners, algorithm-fed anxiety, and performative outrage delivered straight to your palm.

We weren’t built for this. Evolution didn’t anticipate Twitter.

You are not designed to carry the weight of the world, every hour of every day. Especially not with today’s news cycle, which isn’t just reporting events—it’s monetizing your fear, selling your attention, and frying your nervous system in the process.

You’re not weak for needing a break. You’re wise to notice you need a break.

Tuning Out Isn’t Giving Up—It’s Taking Back Control

Let’s be clear. I’m not advocating for ignorance or apathy. I’m suggesting setting boundaries.

There’s a vast difference between strategic disengagement and putting your head in the sand. One is conscious and empowering. The other is denial in a trench coat.

We often fall into the trap of believing that staying constantly “informed” makes us responsible citizens. But what if being clear-headed, emotionally available, and mentally resilient makes you an even better one?

Tuning out doesn’t mean you don’t care.
It means you care about your energy, your values, and your sanity. Especially if you are an introvert.

You’re not here to consume catastrophe 24/7.
You’re here to make a difference in your own unique, sustainable way.

Reclaiming Your Focus in the Age of Frenzy

Here’s the thing about chaos: it’s noisy.

It wants your attention. It thrives on distraction. It incites outrage.
But you? You get to choose what you listen to, and what you absorb.

Step one: Audit your inputs.
Who are you following? What are you watching? Is your phone pinging like an over-caffeinated toddler? If the content you’re consuming feels more like a cortisol injection than meaningful engagement, it’s time to unfollow, mute, or delete.

Step two: Curate your connection points.
Pick one reliable source to check once a day—or once a week, even. That’s it. No doomscrolling buffet. Just a conscious, contained update.

Step three: Replace consumption with creation.
Read a book. Bake something. Learn to tango. Write the business plan you’ve been secretly sketching in your journal. Volunteer. Connect in person. Do anything that puts you in the driver’s seat of your own life again.

The Mental Health Cost of Being “Always On”

Burnout isn’t just for overworked professionals anymore—it’s a collective condition. A shared cultural exhaustion.

And part of it is because we haven’t been taught how to filter.
We absorb, absorb, absorb… until our nervous systems throw up the white flag in the form of anxiety, fatigue, numbness, or rage.

By the way—if you’ve been feeling unusually irritable, scattered, or emotionally flat?
That’s not a personal failure.
That’s your brain protecting itself from overstimulation.

Which is why the great unplugging isn’t a luxury. It’s a survival strategy.

It allows your system to reset, your mind to breathe, and your creativity to resurface—which you’ll need if you’re going to contribute meaningfully to whatever version of the world comes next.

Reconnection Requires Disconnection

Here’s the paradox:
Sometimes the best way to reconnect with what matters most is to disconnect from everything else.

When you step away from the barrage of noise, something interesting happens.

You begin to hear your own thoughts again.

You remember what you care about—not because it’s trending, but because it’s true.

You start making choices from a place of calm confidence rather than frazzled fear.

You reclaim your ability to respond, rather than react.

This is not escapism.
This is conscious re-engagement on your terms.

A Personal Invitation (Because I Know You’re Tired)

If you’ve read this far, I know something about you.

You’re sensitive. Thoughtful. Intuitive. You want to make a difference, live with purpose, be informed—but not consumed.

And maybe (just maybe), you’re also yearning for space.
Space to think. Space to feel. Space to heal.
Space to unplug from the madness and remember what’s real.

That’s why I created my From Troubled to Triumphant walking retreats on the Camino de Santiago.

Yes, we walk.
Yes, we eat very good cheese.
But more than that—we create sacred space away from the noise, so you can come back to yourself and what really matters.
No news alerts. No drama. Just you, your journey, and the quiet miracle of each step forward.

Let This Be Your Permission Slip

So here it is.
Your invitation to step out of the spin cycle.

You don’t have to follow every headline.
You don’t have to fight every battle.
You don’t have to stay perpetually “informed” if it’s costing you peace, joy, or clarity.

You get to unplug.
You get to rest.
You get to choose.

Because in the end, the most powerful change-makers aren’t the ones shouting the loudest…

They’re the ones quietly centred, deeply rooted, and courageously walking their talk.

One unplugged step at a time.

“I am an experienced medical doctor – MBChB, MRCGP, NLP master pract cert, Transformational Life Coach (dip.) Life Story Coach (cert.) Counselling (cert.) Med Hypnotherapy (dip.) and EAGALA (cert.) I may have an impressive number of letters after my name, and more than three decades of professional experience, but what qualifies me to excel at what I do is my intuitive understanding of my clients’ difficulties and my extensive personal experience of managing major life changes using strategies I developed over many years” Dr M Montagu

Hit the pause button and regain your footing during a From Troubled to Triumphant Retreat. Imagine walking a peaceful stretch of the Camino de Santiago, where every step helps untangle the mental clutter or spending time with gentle Friesian horses who teach you the art of mindfulness. Whether you choose to make a change or are forced to, this retreat offers the perfect blend of peace, perspective, and playful exploration to help you rise from troubled to triumphant!

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