262804066 158. How to Stop Worrying What Others Think When You're Not Perfect(w/ Dr. Gretchen) - Journal Entries

Episode 158

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Published on:

8th Jul 2025

158. How to Stop Worrying What Others Think When You're Not Perfect(w/ Dr. Gretchen)

Ever walked into a meeting feeling like you're barely holding it together, silently praying no one notices you're winging it? Or picked up your kids from daycare after a rough workday, worried the other parents can tell you're struggling?

You're not alone. That constant worry about judgment is exhausting—and it's stealing your confidence at work and peace at home.

In this episode, my twin sister Dr. Gretchen interviews me about performance anxiety and how to work through it. While we originally discussed this in the context of MS symptoms, I realized the tools apply to ANY situation where you're worried about judgment—whether you're stepping into a leadership role, presenting to your boss, or just feeling like you're barely holding it all together.

What You'll Learn:

🧠 The Worst Case Solution Technique — A simple journaling method that stops anxiety spirals before they hijack your day (works in under 5 minutes)

⚡ The 5-Second Grounding Practice — How to instantly shift focus back to yourself when you feel all eyes on you (perfect for meetings, school pickup, or anywhere you feel judged)

🔄 The Calm Mind Blueprint — My 5-step process to turn post-situation rumination into self-compassion and clarity

The Transformation:

Instead of walking into spaces worried about what others think, you'll show up knowing your worth isn't tied to perfect performance. You'll stop replaying every interaction wondering if you "looked off" or disappointed someone.

This isn't about becoming fearless—it's about separating who you are from how you perform so you can be present with your family and confident at work, even when things don't go perfectly.

Your new reality: Walking into that presentation focused on your message, not your nerves. Coming home with energy for your kids instead of mental exhaustion from overthinking every interaction.

Resources Mentioned:

Calm Mind Blueprint: www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind-pod

Dr. Gretchen's podcast: The MSing Link Podcast

Ways to Work with Samantha:

1:1 Coaching: Now accepting applications, 2 spots open. Learn More: www.samanthapenkoff.com/working-together

Application: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/assessments/2148353310

Calm Mind Blueprint: www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind-pod

Connect with Sam on IG: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.s.says

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About the Podcast

Journal Entries

Journal Entries is a podcast for women looking to peel back the layers, understand why they feel stuck & gain clarity in their life so that they can make positive changes.

Your host, Samantha Hawley, believes that you can journal through anything as simple as why it's so hard to stop pressing the snooze button or as trivial as anxiety or why your relationship is struggling. She will help you do this in each Journal Entry (or, episode).

Tune in weekly to get tips, tricks and journal prompts as well as hear from guest speakers to help you to uncover your truths, gain clarity and make your move.
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Samantha Hawley