Sadly, life doesn’t wait until it’s convenient to hit you with hard stuff. Last week, I said goodbye to my 16-year-old dog, Mickey. It’s been one of the toughest weeks I’ve had in years. Grief is exhausting, and showing up—for work, for others, for myself—has honestly been a challenge.
But here’s the thing: even in moments like this, showing up matters. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s how we keep going.
If you’ve ever had a moment where everything feels too heavy to deal with, this one’s for you. Let’s break down why showing up is worth it, and how to do it when you’re not exactly feeling motivated.
The Case for Showing Up: Why It Matters
Consistency isn’t about perfection or always having it together. It’s about committing to take one small step forward, no matter the circumstances. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:
Small Steps Add Up Every little action builds momentum. Maybe it’s a five-minute workout, writing two sentences, or responding to that one email you’ve been avoiding. It might feel like it's not even worth it in the moment, but over time, those actions pile up.
You Build Confidence Life will challenge you—it’s inevitable. But each time you show up—even when it’s hard—you prove to yourself that you can handle it. That confidence builds resilience.
Motivation comes AFTER Action Spoiler alert: you’re never going to feel ready. Waiting for motivation is like waiting for a text back from your ex—it’s unreliable at best. But when you take even the smallest step, the momentum builds, and suddenly, you’re in motion.
How To Show Up When It's Hard
Consistency sounds great in theory, but it’s not always easy. Here are some practical ways to make it easier:
Give Yourself Some Grace Feel your feelings. Cry if you need to. Take a break. But don’t let that be the end of it. Even small actions can help you feel more in control.
Make It Ridiculously Simple Set a bare-minimum goal. What’s the smallest step you can take today? For me, it was sitting down to record a podcast, even when I didn’t feel like talking (and anyone who knows me knows I usually can't stop talking)
Forget Perfect If you’re at 30%, show up at 30%. It’s better than sitting it out entirely.
Practical Tips to Stay Consistent
Set Tiny Goals: Forget the big picture for a moment. Pick one small thing you can do today—whether it’s writing a sentence, sending a text, or doing one push-up—and get it done. Small wins create big momentum.
Start Early: Tackle your goal first thing in the morning. It’s harder to make excuses when your day hasn’t gotten away from you yet, and it sets the tone for the rest of the day.
Lower the Bar: Can’t give 100%? Aim for 10%. Showing up at any level is progress, because a step forward is a step forward.
Find Your People: Accountability is magic. Share your goals with a friend or join a group that lifts you up when you’re struggling.
Celebrate Every Step: Don’t wait for big milestones. Acknowledge the small wins—they matter too.
Keep Thriving
Mickey taught me so much in his 16 years—about love, loyalty, and showing up, no matter what. And as I navigate this grief, I’m reminded that life isn’t about having everything figured out; it’s about taking the next step, even when it’s hard.
If you’re in a tough season right now, know this: you’re stronger than you think. Take it one moment, one small action at a time. You’ve got this.
Until next time, keep showing up. You’re capable of incredible things ✨