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Lindsey Morano 9/11/25 Lindsey Morano 9/11/25

Let Go Of The Things You Think You Should Do (But Know You Won't)

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Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

There’s a special kind of mental clutter that doesn’t live in our junk drawers or inboxes. It lives on our to-do lists.

I’m talking about the things we think we should do. The ones that hang around week after week, quietly nagging us. They sound like good ideas. Other people seem to do them. But deep down? We know we’re probably never going to do them.

Still, we hesitate to let them go.

Because maybe if we were a little more disciplined... A little more organized... A little more like that friend who makes green juice and runs half marathons...

Then maybe we would do them.

This is a big one for me.

There are things I’ve clung to for years, not because I want to do them, but because I feel like I should. And so they sit there, quietly taking up space. Not just on the list, but in my head.

But lately, I’ve been giving myself permission to let them go. Not because I’m giving up. But because I’m choosing to make room for what actually matters to me.

Let me give you an example.

I’ve fully accepted that I am not a person who cooks fancy meals. I love a beautiful recipe as much as anyone. But I do not love spending hours in the kitchen or cleaning up afterward. We eat decently healthy dinners around here, and that’s good enough for me. I can admire the elaborate cooking videos on Instagram without feeling like I need to become a gourmet chef.

Same with running. I love the idea of being a runner. I’ve tried. Many times. I’ve downloaded the apps, bought the shoes, made the playlists. And while I’ve occasionally felt good after a run, I have never, not once, enjoyed the run itself. I like moving my body, but I’ve learned that I’d much rather take a walk. So I walk. And it’s enough.

I’ve made peace with those things.

But the smaller ones? Those still trip me up.

Take following up on emails, for example. Everyone says you should follow up when someone doesn’t respond. “Circle back!” “Bump this to the top of your inbox!” And I get it. I really do. But I hate feeling like I’m bugging people.

So I’ll schedule the email to reappear a week later, as a nudge to myself. And then... sometimes I still don’t follow up. Not because I forgot, but because I just don’t want to be a burden. These days, I’ll usually give it one check-in and then let it go. But it’s still a struggle. That little voice whispers, “You should be more persistent.”

And maybe I should.

But also... maybe I shouldn’t.

Getting Started

Maybe not everything that sounds like a good idea deserves space in our brains.

Sometimes the most loving thing we can do for ourselves is to cross it off the list. Not because it’s done, but because we’ve decided we’re done with it.

So, I’ll ask you:

What’s on your list that you feel like you should do... but deep down, you know you won’t?

What would it feel like to let it go? To stop carrying the weight of it?

You don’t have to be someone else’s version of productive. You just have to build a life that feels good for you.

Ready to Get Started?

If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.

I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.

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Lindsey Morano 9/4/25 Lindsey Morano 9/4/25

Are You a Planner or a Go-With-the-Flow-er?

Photos by oxana v on Unsplash and Getty Images on Unsplash.

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Generally speaking, there are two types of people in this world: those who like to plan... and those who most definitely do not.

Planners thrive on calendars, color-coded lists, and knowing what’s coming next. For them, structure isn’t a constraint, it’s a form of freedom. It helps them relax, be present, and feel grounded. Without a plan, they might feel anxious and out of sync.

Then there are the go-with-the-flow-ers. These folks light up in the moment. They’re adaptable, spontaneous, and great at navigating life as it unfolds. For them, too much planning can feel stifling. Why map everything out when the best moments are often the ones we didn’t see coming?

Which one sounds more like you?

Personally, I land firmly in the planning camp. I find comfort in knowing what’s ahead and having a framework to move within. I can roll with spontaneity, but only after the schedule’s been made. I get cranky when I'm stuck dealing with something that could’ve been avoided with a little foresight.

That said, life has a funny way of pairing us with our opposites. Whether it’s our work partners, our best friends, or the person we chose to build a life with, it’s not uncommon to find yourself navigating the dance between structure and spontaneity.

And that’s not a bad thing.

In work, planners help move things forward with intention. The go-with-the-flow types bring in flexibility, creativity, and often, much-needed perspective when plans inevitably shift. Together, they balance each other out.

In relationships, having a planner can mean fewer missed flights, more sunscreen packed, and everyone showing up at the right field for soccer practice. The spontaneous one? They bring the magic. The impromptu ice cream runs, the random dance parties, the reminder that joy doesn’t always have to be penciled in.

Some of the best friendships I know have this exact dynamic. One friend handles the logistics, makes the reservation, and sends the calendar invite. The other shows up with contagious laughter and unforgettable stories.

Getting Started

So how do we honor both styles, especially when they clash?

A few things come to mind:

Communicate your preferences with “I” statements. Instead of, “You never plan anything,” try, “I feel more at ease when we have a loose plan.”
Notice what the other brings to the table. That last-minute beach day may not have been on the agenda, but wasn’t it exactly what you needed?
Negotiate, don’t dominate. Can there be a plan... with a little room to wander?

Philippa Perry, psychotherapist and counselor, reminds us how powerful it is to speak from our own experience. “I prefer to do it like this,” goes a lot farther than, “You’re doing it wrong.”

There’s no right or wrong way to be. The magic often happens in the middle, in the space where planners and improvisers find their rhythm.

So tell me... which one are you? And what’s it like loving, living, or working with your opposite?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 8/28/25 Lindsey Morano 8/28/25

The 9am Monday Meeting I Didn't Know I Needed

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

I do most of my coaching on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. And like many of you, I often feel that Monday morning dread. You know the feeling—your calendar is full, your to-do list is long, and your brain is swirling with everything that needs to happen between now and Friday.

Even when I’ve done my planning. Even when I feel relatively prepared. There’s just something about Monday morning that feels big.

So here’s what I’ve learned (and re-learned) the hard way: The worst part is before I start.

This past academic term, my first client call wasn’t until 10:30 AM on Mondays. I figured, “Perfect! That gives me a nice, slow start to ease into the week.” I imagined myself sipping coffee, clearing out emails, maybe even getting in a walk. Except… that’s not what happened.

Instead, I spent those early hours feeling edgy. I’d open my inbox and immediately get overwhelmed. I’d try to get into the groove, but my brain wasn’t cooperating. It was all noise, no flow. The quiet start I thought I wanted didn’t feel peaceful. It just gave me more time to worry about everything I hadn’t done yet.

Getting Started

Contrast that with when I have a 9:00 AM coaching call.

It’s early. It’s a bit of a scramble to get there. But once I’m in the session—fully present, fully engaged—I feel like myself again. I stop spinning. I get grounded. It’s like the act of doing pulls me out of my head and back into the moment. And that one call? It sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Suddenly the emails don’t feel so overwhelming. The to-do list looks more doable. My brain… calms down.

There’s this great quote I think about a lot:

“Action breeds confidence and clarity; inaction breeds doubt and fear.” —Dale Carnegie. And wow, do I feel that on Monday mornings.

So if you’re feeling stuck at the beginning of your week, or your day, maybe the kindest thing you can do for yourself isn’t more planning or more coffee. Maybe it’s just starting. Taking the first step. Doing the first thing. Even imperfectly.

Because once you’re in motion, everything gets better.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 8/21/25 Lindsey Morano 8/21/25

Not Making a Decision, Is a Decision

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Have you ever pushed off a decision so long that the decision just… made itself?

Yeah, me too.

It usually starts small. There’s an event coming up—maybe a conference or a dinner or something that sounds kind of worth it, but you’re not 100% sure. You think, “Maybe I’ll go. I just need to check a few things… see if the babysitter is available… figure out if I can move that meeting…”

And then you don’t. You don’t check your calendar. You don’t text the sitter. You don’t make a decision. You just sort of... let it float.

Until—surprise!—the sitter’s booked. Or the ticket price went up. Or your schedule filled in. And suddenly, you’re not going anymore. Not because you decided not to go, but because the window closed.

That’s the trap.

I’ve found myself here more times than I care to admit. I wait too long to RSVP. I put off launching a project because I’m not totally sure what direction to take it. I hold off on making a call because I don’t feel ready—and then, eventually, the moment passes.

And here’s the truth I’ve had to remind myself (and my clients) over and over:

Not making a decision is a decision. It’s a decision by default.

Getting Started

It’s sneaky, because it feels passive. Safe. Like you're buying yourself time. But more often than not, all you're doing is giving your power away. You let the clock run out, and suddenly life decides for you.

Sometimes that works out fine. But sometimes, it doesn’t. And you’re left feeling frustrated or disappointed, not because of the outcome, but because you didn’t own the choice.

So lately, I’ve been trying to pay more attention to those lingering, half-decided decisions. I ask myself, “If I had to choose right now, yes or no, what would I do?” And then I try to act on it. Even if it’s imperfect. Even if I’m still a little unsure.

Because moving forward with intention, rather than drifting by default, just feels better. Even when the choice is hard.

What about you? Have you ever found yourself caught in the trap of not deciding?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 8/14/25 Lindsey Morano 8/14/25

Get To Your Productive Place

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

I have a comfy chair in my bedroom, my go-to spot when I need to get things done but don't feel particularly motivated.

It’s where I often write my blogs, sort through emails, or even just sit and think. The chair is nestled next to a big window, paired with a cozy ottoman and a little end table that holds my water and a few cheerful decorations. It’s a calming space that feels like mine.

On the days when I feel completely drained and tell myself, “I can’t do anything right now”, but know I still need to try, I bring my laptop to that chair.

And surprisingly often, once I’m there, I find the energy to tackle a few small things. I cross off items I didn’t think I had the capacity for. They’re not always big tasks, but they’re forward motion. Progress.

Getting Started

Sometimes, simply going to the place, your place, can unlock just enough energy to do what needs to be done. Your “productive place” doesn’t have to look a certain way. It just needs to be a space where you feel grounded, safe, and ready to take a small step forward.

So, where’s your productive place?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 8/7/25 Lindsey Morano 8/7/25

When Comparison Helps–and When It Just Hurts

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Let’s be honest, comparison is part of being human.

You’re scrolling through Instagram, and suddenly you’re wondering why their house is so perfect!

Or you’re talking to a friend and thinking, “Wait… how can she afford that vacation I can only dream about?”

Or you hear someone has a New York Times bestseller, and you start questioning your weekly blog post routine.

Just me? Didn’t think so.

The thing is, comparison isn’t always bad. In fact, sometimes it’s helpful. But only if you're comparing the right things.

Getting Started

Helpful Comparison: The Kind You Can Do Something About

If someone’s doing something that lights a little spark in you, pay attention.

Like maybe you notice someone who’s really consistent with their email list or shows up weekly with helpful Instagram Lives. That kind of comparison can be a nudge. "Hey, I want more of that energy in my life, too."

Or maybe you hear how a friend automates their savings every month, and it inspires you to take a closer look at your own finances, not with shame, but with curiosity.

These are comparisons that point toward action, not self-judgment.

Not-So-Helpful Comparison: The Kind That Feels Like a Punch in the Gut

This is the kind where you compare your middle to someone else’s highlight reel. Like wondering why your coaching business doesn’t look like someone else's… when they’ve been doing it for ten years, have a full team, and run ads with a budget that could fund your kid’s college tuition.

Or comparing your blog to someone with a massive book deal, as if those two things belong on the same scale.

Or comparing your income to someone else's… without knowing anything about their expenses, investments, support systems, or even what trade-offs they’ve made to get there.

That kind of comparison is sneaky. It often sounds like:

“Why am I not further along?” “What’s wrong with me?” “I’ll never catch up.”

And that’s where it hurts more than helps.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 7/31/25 Lindsey Morano 7/31/25

Hard Is Not the Same as Bad

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

We live in a world that often celebrates ease.

Fast. Easy. Convenient. Everywhere you look, those are the promises being made. And hey, I totally get it! I love a good hack. If there’s a way to make something simpler, I’m all in. Work smarter, not harder, right? But I’ve started to notice… somewhere along the way, easy became the end goal. And I’m not so sure that’s always a good thing.

And that’s a problem because some of the best, most meaningful parts of life are hard.

Starting something new is hard. It asks us to step into uncertainty and to face the discomfort of not knowing what we're doing yet. But think about it, every great accomplishment in your life began with something new and unfamiliar. Nothing meaningful starts from your comfort zone.

Becoming a foster parent was and is the hardest thing I’ve ever done, hands down! It's stretched me emotionally, mentally, and physically. There have been moments I've felt completely unequipped. But it’s also been the most meaningful, transformative adventure of my life. The kind of growth that doesn’t come easy, but is deeply worth it.

Starting my business, Happy Spaces, was hard, too. Building something from scratch, carving out a space for my ideas and expertise, required more courage, resilience, and long nights than I expected. But now? It’s not just what I do; it’s a reflection of who I am. And I wouldn't trade that journey for anything.

Now, I’m dreaming about writing a book, something built from the 143 blog posts I’ve written so far. I know it will be hard. It already is. Organizing, editing, rewriting, facing the vulnerability of putting something permanent into the world. But again: hard does not mean bad. It means worthwhile.

And yet, think about how we talk about hard things:

"This class is so hard—maybe I should just drop it." "My boss is kind of intense—maybe they’re just not a great fit." "This new project is overwhelming—maybe I’m not the right person for it."

Sound familiar? We all do it! Hard starts to feel like a warning sign, like something’s wrong. What if, instead of running from hard, we got curious about it?

Getting Started

Maybe that class is challenging because it’s asking more of you, and that’s a good thing. Maybe your boss has high expectations because they believe in what you can do. Maybe that project is stretching you, and all you really need is a little extra support and a clearer plan.

Hard doesn’t have to mean “this isn’t working.”

Hard doesn’t mean bad. It often means important. It often means you care. It often means growth is happening.

So the next time something feels hard, pause. Ask yourself: Is this actually bad? Or is this the beginning of something meaningful?

Because easy doesn’t always bring joy, purpose, or transformation. But hard? Hard might just be the path to your most powerful story.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 7/24/25 Lindsey Morano 7/24/25

The Best Trait You Can Build

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

People often ask me: If you could pick just one trait that leads to success, what would it be?

My answer is always the same, and it’s not even close.

High frustration tolerance.

If you have it, you’ll keep going. If you don’t, you’ll likely give up.

I see it everywhere: What determines a student’s grades? Frustration tolerance. What predicts who will thrive in a big new role? Frustration tolerance. What fuels the ability to stick with learning a new skill, even when it’s hard? You guessed it—-frustration tolerance.

Because most skills can be learned. The real question is: how long are you willing to sit in the discomfort of not getting it yet?

You might wonder, Is there a downside to high frustration tolerance? Yes, and it’s a big one.

Sometimes, the very thing that keeps us pushing through also makes it hard to walk away. Just because you can figure something out doesn’t mean it’s worth the time, energy, or cost to your well-being. Wisdom is knowing the difference.

So where does frustration tolerance come from? Are you born with it, or can it be built?

I believe it’s both.

Some kids come into the world with a natural stubborn streak. The ones who insist, “I’ll do it myself!” even if it takes ten times longer. Those kids often grow into adults with high frustration tolerance. That fierce independence, while maddening for parents at times, can become a real superpower later in life.

But even if you weren’t born with it, you can build it.

Getting Started

It starts with small moments: Pushing just slightly past your comfort zone. Watching yourself struggle, and figure it out. Crossing finish lines you didn’t think you could reach.

Frustration tolerance grows from doing hard things, especially the ones you couldn’t do without support.

The more comfortable you get with not yet knowing, the more trust you build in your ability to learn, adapt, and persevere.

As Dr. Becky calls it, support your kids in “The Learning Space”. That stretch between not knowing and mastery. That’s where growth happens.

And support yourself there, too.

Choose the hard things you believe you can do, even if they make you uncomfortable. Stay with the struggle long enough to see your own capability unfold. That’s how you build not just success, but self-trust.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 7/17/25 Lindsey Morano 7/17/25

Compulsive. Chronic. Numbing.

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PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Brené Brown defines addiction as “compulsive and chronic numbing.”

That definition deeply resonates with me. It has opened the door to a deeper understanding, not just of substance abuse, but of the habits and patterns quietly overtaking so many of our waking hours.

When I work with clients, we often start with a focus on productivity, not to push for perfection, but to help them do what matters most.

Getting Started

It’s not about becoming a productivity machine.

It’s about finishing your calculus homework so you can pass the class and stay in your major.

It’s about turning in your assignments so you can stop counting zeros and get off academic probation.

It’s about meeting deadlines at work, so you can keep the job you both enjoy and rely on to support your family.

But there’s a growing challenge I see again and again: the pull of compulsive screen time—TikTok, YouTube, Netflix, video games.

When we understand addiction as chronic numbing, these behaviors start to make more sense.

Calculus is hard. Video games offer instant relief.

Starting a dry, tedious discussion post feels overwhelming. TikTok feels light and fun.

Facing another packed workday feels heavy. A Netflix binge at midnight feels like an escape, until you're dragging yourself out of bed four hours later, more overwhelmed than before.

When clients keep choosing screens over sleep, over school, over work, even when they desperately want a different outcome, it may be time to reframe the conversation.

Because this doesn’t always look like a “problem” in the traditional sense. But when numbing becomes chronic, when it interferes with your goals, your health, your peace... it matters.

Here’s some food for thought: We don’t tell alcoholics to try “just one drink a day.” We don’t tell kids, “one cigarette won’t hurt.”

So why are we okay with apps and platforms that are literally designed to hook us, and keep us hooked?

Did you know that executives at Apple and Google famously limit their own children’s screen time, or avoid giving them smartphones altogether?

For me, this definition of addiction hits home most with food, numbing stress or discomfort with a treat. But for many of the clients I work with, it’s screen time: social media, streaming, scrolling. These aren't just bad habits. They're coping strategies. Ones that work in the short term, but cost us in the long term.

Maybe it’s time we start treating them with the seriousness they deserve.

Not with shame. But with honesty. With curiosity.

And with a commitment to reclaiming our time, and our focus from things that leave us feeling empty.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 7/10/25 Lindsey Morano 7/10/25

Don't Feed The Frustration

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Have you ever noticed how the more you dwell on something frustrating, the bigger it seems to grow? It’s like handing it a microphone and shining a spotlight on it. Suddenly, that one small annoyance starts to take over your entire day.

I’ve been there too. I’ve replayed a stressful two-minute moment in my mind for hours. It echoes, it expands, and suddenly I’ve spent half a day feeling tense over something I can’t change.

Getting Started

This isn’t about pretending everything’s fine or brushing real problems under the rug. It’s about choosing where to place your mental and emotional energy. Because what you give your attention to, gains power.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy reminds us that we’re not at the mercy of every thought that pops into our minds. When your thoughts start spiraling, you can pause and gently redirect them. You can ask yourself: Is this thought helping me? Is it even true?

Instead of replaying frustrations, try filling that space with something healing or helpful—building a social connection, working on a meaningful project, or simply identifying one small step forward.

You deserve peace. And sometimes, peace begins with what you choose to and choose not to focus on.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 7/3/25 Lindsey Morano 7/3/25

Independence Day Reflections

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Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

As Independence Day approaches, I find myself thinking about independence in a slightly different way. Not the red, white, and blue kind (though I love a good fireworks display), but the kind that shows up in how we learn, work, and move through the world.

Some people love group projects. Others, like me, tend to cringe at the memory of them.

Back in college, it felt like every other assignment was a group project. And for me, they were frustrating more often than not. I always felt like I ended up doing more than my share, while the grade was split equally across the board. At the heart of it, I realize now, it wasn’t just about fairness, it was about standards. I had high expectations for the work I submitted, and I wasn’t willing to lower the bar just to keep the peace.

So I did more. I took control. I worked independently whenever I could. Because if the success or failure of the project was going to rest on someone’s shoulders, I wanted them to be mine.

Getting Started

Fast forward to today, and I spend my days coaching students, many of whom thrive in group settings. It’s actually fascinating to watch. For some students, group projects are a game-changer. The accountability, the shared responsibility, the knowledge that someone else will be relying on their contribution—those things don’t stress them out the way they did for me. In fact, they often do better work when they’re not going it alone.

Maybe it’s personality. Maybe it’s trust. Maybe it’s just how we’re wired.

Some students are natural collaborators. Others prefer solitude. Some need the quiet of their own space to process and create, while others feed off the energy of a team. And honestly? Both are valid. Both can lead to incredible results. But knowing which one works best for you, that’s where the magic starts.

As for me? I’ve come to appreciate collaboration a lot more than I used to. Especially when it’s intentional, balanced, and respectful of everyone’s strengths. I still love my solo time (hello, writing in quiet coffee shops), but I’ve learned that sometimes the best ideas come from conversations, not just contemplation.

So on this Independence Day, I’m celebrating both: the freedom to work the way that suits us best and the wisdom to know when to lean on others.

How about you? Do you prefer working in a group or flying solo?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 6/26/25 Lindsey Morano 6/26/25

Start with a Brain Dump

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Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

One of the biggest things that holds us back isn’t lack of motivation or time. It’s the constant swirl of thoughts in our heads.

To-do lists, reminders, worries, half-formed ideas. They all spin around in our minds, creating stress and overwhelm.

Getting Started

The best way to quiet the noise?

Get it out of your head.

Before you dive into your weekly planning session, try this: Set a timer for five minutes and do a brain dump. Write or type everything that comes to mind, no filters, no structure. Nothing is too big or too small. Just get it out.

If you’re about to start a new project, this is the perfect way to begin. Instead of jumping straight into action, take five minutes to brain-dump every single thought, task, and question you have about the project. It’s a simple step that lays the foundation for real progress.

Feeling overwhelmed at night as you're trying to fall asleep? Yep, same solution. Keep a notebook by your bed, or use your phone’s notes app and brain dump everything that’s on your mind. Leave it on your desk or in your work bag to revisit in the morning.

When I start working with clients, I often hear things like: “I don’t need to write that down. I won’t forget. It’s top of mind.”

But here’s the truth: they’re spending valuable brain energy trying not to forget. Energy that could be used on problem-solving, decision-making, or simply being present.

Once they start brain dumping regularly, they begin to feel the difference. The anxiety goes down. Their minds feel clearer. They start using their brain for the things that matter - creative thinking, deep work, meaningful conversations.

And they finally feel like they can breathe.

It all starts with a brain dump. It’s five minutes that can shift your entire day.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 6/19/25 Lindsey Morano 6/19/25

Words Are Cheap

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Words are cheap. It’s action that counts.

We all know someone who talks a big game. They sound confident. Their ideas seem brilliant. But when you take a closer look at their daily habits, their actual accomplishments, there’s not much there.

The truth is, talk is easy. Execution is hard.

When I first started my business, I would meet people who absolutely blew me away. They had bold visions, impressive-sounding plans, and what seemed like wildly successful businesses. I admired them. I cheered them on. And quietly, I wondered: Why haven’t I figured it out like they have?

But time has a way of revealing what’s real.

In almost every case where I thought, Wow, they’re amazing, I later discovered it was mostly smoke and mirrors. The business that sounded so successful had quietly closed. The big ideas never got off the ground. Some of these people had even left clients feeling worse off, disappointed, discouraged, and doubting themselves.

They were great at marketing. Great at talking. Great at looking successful.

And listen, in today’s world, being a skilled self-promoter can be a career. You can build a platform, even become an influencer. That’s fine. It’s just not me.

Because talking about a business isn’t the same as building one.

Getting Started

I remind myself of that constantly.

If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. If someone’s success seems overnight, it almost never is.

Starting something new is hard. Starting a business is hard. Growth is uncomfortable. Results take time.

To succeed, you need more than a dream, you need a plan. You need to show up when no one’s watching. You need to make mistakes, learn, adjust, and keep going.

And if you’re not seeing instant results? That doesn’t mean you’re failing.

It means you’re doing the real work.

So don’t compare your quiet, consistent progress to someone else’s highlight reel.

Words are cheap. Actions—your daily, persistent, imperfect actions—are what build something real.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 6/12/25 Lindsey Morano 6/12/25

Real Change Takes Time

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

I love coaching students. There’s nothing more fulfilling than watching them grow into the capable, confident humans I already know they can be.

As an Academic Coach, one of the hardest parts of my job isn’t working with students, it’s walking alongside their parents. These are parents who see their child’s potential, know how bright they are, and desperately want them to succeed. But they often hope for that success on a fast-track timeline.

Here’s the truth I remind them gently, over and over:

Real change takes time.

I’ve said this before, but it’s worth repeating: in all my years of coaching, I’ve never worked with a high school student for more than a year who still needed academic coaching in college. Why? Because they had the chance to build systems, habits, and confidence while they were still under the structure and support of home.

Now, most of the students I work with are already in college.

Their families are excited for a fresh start. They recognize the need for support, and that’s why they reach out. The students themselves want to succeed. They’re smart, motivated, and eager to make the most of this chapter.

But many of them cruised through high school doing the bare minimum. They were bright enough to pull it off. And when they did struggle, their parents hired subject tutors, someone to help them complete assignments or pass the class.

What no one taught them was how to plan their week. How to block off study time. How to walk into office hours and say, “I’m lost, and I don’t know where to start.”

At home, parents made sure they woke up on time. They turned off the Wi-Fi at 10 PM. They collected phones before bed. Those strategies can be incredibly helpful in getting a teen to graduation.

Getting Started

But here’s what I want to say gently to every parent:

Don’t expect a miracle when your child moves away to college.

It takes time to learn how to manage yourself - your time, your energy, your motivation.

It takes time to learn how to leave the comfort of your dorm room and find a study spot where you can actually focus.

It takes time to build the courage to ask for help, especially when you’re not even sure what you need, just that you’re overwhelmed.

For most students, it takes two to three years to figure out the systems and strategies that work for them. That’s when they’re doing the work for themselves, because they want to grow.

If they’re doing it to meet someone else’s expectations? It might take even longer.

And I know, college is expensive. It’s supposed to take four years. Parents worry, and rightfully so. This is a big investment.

But let’s zoom out.

In the grand scheme of life, two or three years to learn how to manage yourself, take ownership, and become resilient? That’s not long at all.

We keep our eyes on the bigger picture: building a life with purpose, financial independence, and a deep sense of personal success.

That doesn’t happen overnight.

Real change takes time. And that’s okay.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 6/5/25 Lindsey Morano 6/5/25

Creating a Better Relationship with Email

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

For a long time, email felt like a way to measure my productivity. It gave me a visible signal that I was staying on top of things.

I’d open my inbox first thing in the morning, fire off a few replies, and feel like I was starting the day strong. But over time, that sense of accomplishment faded. It stopped feeling productive and started feeling heavy.

No matter how many messages I answered, more kept rolling in. My inbox became a quiet source of pressure, always tugging at me with whispers like:

“You missed something.” “You should respond.” “You’re falling behind.”

That’s when it hit me: Email wasn’t the problem. My relationship with it was.

Getting Started

So, I started to shift. Not all at once. Not perfectly. But intentionally and with a lot of self-compassion.

Lesson 1: Email Is a Tool, Not a To-Do List

I used to treat my inbox like my task list. But here’s the problem with that: it was a to-do list written by other people.

I was constantly reacting, never really leading my day.

Now, I ask myself: Is this message actually a task?

If it is, I move it to my calendar or task list. If not, I archive it. It’s a simple habit that helps me stay focused on my priorities.

Lesson 2: Boundaries Are Not Optional

I used to check email constantly, at red lights, during lunch, even in bed. I told myself I was being responsible. In reality, I was never truly unplugged.

Now, I check email just two or three times a day. I batch it. I give it my full attention. And then, I close it.

It’s amazing how freeing it is to say: “Email can wait. I’m focused on this right now.”

Lesson 3: Not Everything Needs an Answer Today

I used to feel pressure to reply to everything, immediately. But then I asked myself:

What if I gave myself permission to respond when I’m actually ready?

Most emails are not urgent. And if something is urgent? It will find another way to reach you.

Now, I scan for anything truly time-sensitive, handle what takes under two minutes, and schedule time for the rest.

Lesson 4: Clear Writing Saves Everyone’s Time

There was a time when I’d write long, overly polite emails that left people unsure of what to do next.

Now, I try to write with intention:

Clear subject lines
Bullet points when helpful
One clear next step

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being clear, kind, and efficient.

Lesson 5: You Are Allowed to Step Away

This was the hardest one for me because we live in a world that worships responsiveness.

But here’s the truth: You are allowed to log off. You are allowed to rest without guilt. To take a break without apologies. To be present in your life, not just productive in your inbox.

Still a Work in Progress

Building a better relationship with email isn’t just about hitting inbox zero.

It’s about reclaiming your time. Reducing mental clutter. Creating space for deep work, real rest, and a sense of calm.

Email can be a tool that supports your life or it can quietly run your life. The difference is in how you choose to engage with it.

And to be clear: I’m still a work in progress. I fall down the email rabbit hole more often than I’d like. But when I do, I return to these lessons and remind myself:

I’m not a bad person for not replying right away. I’m just human. And I’m learning.

Download our free checklist

Reclaim your time. Reduce the noise. Build a healthier relationship with email. Use this weekly to check-in with your habits and reset your email mindset.

Download Free Checklist

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 5/29/25 Lindsey Morano 5/29/25

Conflicting Feelings About Email

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

There’s something about a clear inbox that instantly makes me feel calmer, like I can finally exhale.

But then there are those days when my inbox fills up with 30 emails. None of them are urgent, so I let them sit. I focus on something more important, something that actually needs my full attention.

And yet, when I finally take the time, maybe a day or two later, to clear them out, I notice the shift. I feel lighter, more in control. Calmer. The strange thing is, I hadn’t even realized I wasn’t calm before.

Getting Started

That’s where the conflict comes in.

Email so often isn’t the truly important stuff. It can wait. And still, it affects how I feel throughout the day, even when I know it shouldn't.

I hate the feeling of loose ends, like I owe someone a reply, like something’s hanging over me.

You can tell yourself a hundred times, "It’s fine. The emails can wait." But it doesn’t change the feeling.

Can anyone else relate? Do you have any magical tips or strategies that make email feel less... heavy?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

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Lindsey Morano 5/22/25 Lindsey Morano 5/22/25

Stuck in a Rut?

Photo by Pablo Merchán Montes on Unsplash.

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

I’m writing this as much to hear from you as to share my own thoughts; because, honestly, I could use some advice too.

We’ve all been there. Life is chugging along. Work is fine. Home life is steady. No major crises, no unexpected hurdles. And yet, somehow, everything feels... stuck.

Why does life sometimes feel like an endless loop of "Wash, Rinse, Repeat"?

You're not behind. Nothing is particularly stressful. But there’s this nagging sense of monotony, like you’re living the same day over and over again.

We always talk about the power of habits and routines, how they keep us on track through the highs, the lows, and everything in between. But what about those times when life just feels too predictable? When the routines that once provided stability now feel like a cage?

So, how do we shake things up? How do we break free from the dullness and bring some spark back into our daily lives?

Getting Started

Here are a few things that help me:

Find an exciting book or audiobook—something that pulls me into a new world or perspective.
Schedule in-person meet-ups for work—changing the scenery and connecting with others makes a big difference.
Get outside early in the day—fresh air and movement can shift my mindset.
Plan something fun for the weekend—having something to look forward to keeps the days from blending together.
Prioritize extra rest—sometimes, that feeling of being stuck is just exhaustion in disguise.

But I’d love to hear from you. What do you do when life starts to feel a little too repetitive?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

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Lindsey Morano 5/15/25 Lindsey Morano 5/15/25

WAIT - Why Am I Talking?

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

I recently had the pleasure of attending a talk by @Lauren Valentine titled Advocate. Negotiate. Elevate – Empower Your Career Growth.

There were so many great takeaways, but a few really stuck with me:

The answer is always no if you don’t ask.
The importance of elevating those around you.
Take the time to understand the problems you’re solving for the other party.

But one concept that really hit home was the Power of the Pause.

Getting Started

Lauren’s reminder to let words settle and give people time to think made me realize how powerful pausing can be in any conversation or interaction.

This is true in so many scenarios:

In coaching: When I ask a client a question, it’s okay to give them a few moments to truly reflect on their answer.
In parenting: With my daughter, sometimes it’s more effective to say less and allow my words to sink in.
In meetings: How much more impactful it can be to pause after asking a question, giving everyone the chance to truly think and respond.

One of the most valuable takeaways for me was learning an acronym I now love: WAIT – Why Am I Talking?

I’m excited to embrace this concept more in my life—both personally and professionally. Let’s not forget the power of the pause, and how much it can help us connect, listen, and grow!

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

Share this post

Lindsey Morano 5/8/25 Lindsey Morano 5/8/25

What Environment Are You Creating?

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

Do your employees feel comfortable sharing feedback? Do they feel safe bringing new ideas to the table? Or are they afraid of failure—hesitant to speak up, take risks, or step into new opportunities?

A closed-off work environment isn’t just bad for morale—it could be costing you real money.

When employees don’t feel heard, inefficiencies go unaddressed. Problems that could have been fixed early start draining resources. Lost productivity, missed improvements, and disengaged employees add up quickly.

When employees don’t feel empowered to share ideas, you might be missing out on new revenue streams, game-changing innovations, or simple but impactful process improvements.

And if your employees are afraid of failure? They may not raise their hands for new projects or leadership opportunities—even when they’re the best person for the job.

Getting Started

Creating an open and supportive environment isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have. It’s the foundation for growth, innovation, and a thriving company culture.

Is psychological safety part of your company’s values?

More importantly, how do you ensure that every team member truly feels it—so they can fully support your company’s goals and initiatives?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.

Follow Me

Share this post

Lindsey Morano 5/1/25 Lindsey Morano 5/1/25

Accepting Help

Join the Project of the Week Community!

Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!

PROJECT OF THE WEEK

We all know it’s impossible to be good at everything.

No one questions why a soccer or basketball team needs a coach. We don’t expect kids to teach themselves how to read—that’s why we have teachers. Yet, when it comes to essential life skills like managing time, making plans, and following through on projects, we assume everyone should just know how to do it.

Why do we expect our kids—young and old—to magically master executive functioning skills without guidance?

Over the years, I’ve had countless conversations with potential clients about their goals, challenges, and what’s been holding them back. More times than I can count, they tell me they want to “give it one more shot” on their own. If I still can’t do it, I’ll reach back out, they say.

And many of them do reach back out. They become great clients. They thrive with the right support.

What frustrates me as a coach is the unrealistic expectation society places on students, working parents, and ambitious professionals—the idea that they should be able to do it all alone. And if they can’t? Something must be wrong with them.

Never mind the fact that most schools don’t actually teach executive functioning. Never mind that some people naturally struggle with it more than others, even though, with the right support, they can be incredibly successful.

Getting Started

There is no shame in asking for help. There is no weakness in accepting it.

I often wonder—if we could remove the stigma around needing support, how many more creative and brilliant minds would reach their full potential?

ADHD, at its core, is a brain difference. It can make executive functioning more difficult, but it also enhances creativity, energy, and the ability to hyperfocus on what truly matters.

Imagine the groundbreaking ideas and innovations that could come to life if executive functioning support were simply seen as a resource—without shame, without hesitation, just like a coach on the field or a teacher in the classroom.

What could we achieve if we embraced the power of help?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!

get started

A Note from Happy Spaces

Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.

Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®

Sincerely,

Sarah Weingarten

Meet Sarah

As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.