Big Dreams, Big Freakouts? Conquer Expansion Anxiety & Grow Without Losing Your Chill

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Episode 54: Big Dreams, Big Freakouts? Conquer Expansion Anxiety & Grow Without Losing Your Chill

Are you itching to grow but feeling that familiar freakout creeping in? Maybe you're craving more but are haunted by thoughts like, “Can I even handle this?” or “What if I fall flat on my face?” Well, you’re not alone, and this episode is here to prove it! This week, Caitlan tackles Expansion Anxiety—aka the stress storm that kicks up when you’re on the brink of something big but aren’t sure if you’re ready.

From her own story of pivoting her business after maternity leave to making bold moves to Switzerland, Caitlan’s bringing the goods on why feeling anxious about growth is normal and how to flip the script on those nerves. Spoiler: Growth doesn’t have to mean burnout. This episode is all about balancing your inner and outer resources so you can take aligned steps toward growth, not chaotic leaps.

Get ready for practical tips, relatable feels, and some “I needed to hear this” moments. Whether you’re about to switch careers, move cities, or scale your biz, Caitlan’s got you covered on how to grow without totally losing your cool.

Key Takeaways:

1. Expansion Anxiety is Normal—But Manageable: Growth doesn’t have to mean pushing through constant panic. Recognize expansion anxiety as a common response to big changes, and learn to manage it with intention instead of dread.
2. Assessing Inner & Outer Resources is Key: Before diving in, check your support systems, energy levels, and alignment. A solid foundation makes growth sustainable and way less stressful.
3. Aligned Growth > Chaotic Leaps: You don’t have to rush or follow anyone else’s timeline. Take small, strategic steps that feel right for you, and watch your business (and life) expand at your pace.

This is your go-to guide for growing without grinding yourself into the ground. Enjoy the episode!

Episode Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Welcome to the Return Podcast
• 00:47 - What Exactly is Expansion Anxiety? (Yes, it's real!)
• 03:59 - Why We Feel Pressured to Grow (Spoiler: Society’s got opinions)
• 08:06 - Tapping into Your Inner Resources (It’s all about you, boo)
• 17:14 - Assessing Outer Resources (Are you supported, or just stressed?)
• 25:02 - Intentional Strategies for Aligned Growth (Yes, please!)
• 31:32 - Practical Steps to Crush Expansion Anxiety
• 32:17 - Wrap-Up and Next Steps

Loving this episode? Hit that subscribe button so you don’t miss a beat! Ready to dive deeper? Head over to Caitlan’s website to explore how you can work together to build your dream life without the hustle. And if you’re vibing with the podcast, don’t forget to leave a review! It’s like a bouquet of beautiful flowers. PS:-- If you do leave a review send it to [e-mail] to be eligible to win a FR

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Produced by Caitlan Siegenthaler
Edited by Mike Sims of Echo Valley Audio

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag me. And if you really loved it, the best thank-you is a written review on Apple Podcasts. Bonus: your review gets you a free 30-min session with me through The Dip. Book here: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/1968a8cf/appointment/77001185/calendar/6030714?appointmentTypeIds[]=77001185