Stop Grinding Through the Slow Season | How Small Positive Shifts Widen Your Perspective

Have you ever noticed that when one good thing happens in your day, everything else starts flowing in that direction too? That’s not a coincidence, and there’s actual science behind it. In this episode, I’m breaking down the broaden-and-build theory, a framework from positive psychologist Dr. Barbara Fredrickson that I came across in a Bustle article, and what it means for navigating the emotional rollercoaster of a creative career. I get into how positive emotions widen your thinking and build resilience over time, while stress and spiraling shrink your perspective into tunnel vision. I talk about what contracted thinking looks like for creatives in slow booking seasons or when your content isn’t getting traction, and why the way out isn’t pushing harder, it’s one small, intentional shift toward something good. I share the micro moments I use to shift my own state (including walking into an audition as if I’ve already booked the job), and why recovery has to be built into your week for any of this to work. This one’s for anyone in a hard season who feels like they’re working harder than ever and seeing no results. *In This Episode:* A quick story about my $6 Paris sweater (and the coincidence that came with it) Why one good thing in your day can make everything else start flowing The broaden-and-build theory, explained What contracted thinking looks like for creatives in slow seasons Why a small positive shift, not forced positivity, is what widens your perspective My go-to micro moments, from movement to the Activations app to going into an audition like I’ve already booked the job Micro shifts to try before a self-tape, audition, or creative session Why recovery is the prerequisite for creativity, not a reward for working hard enough Why the way through a hard season isn’t more pressure *RESOURCES:* Bustle article on the broaden-and-build theory by Carolyn Steber: https://www.bustle.com/wellness/broad... Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, creator of the broaden-and-build theory: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles... Lisa Chen, licensed psychotherapist referenced in the article: https://www.lisachentherapy.com/press The Activations app: https://www.activations.com/ ✨Connect with Maddie✨ Explore Maddie’s Website: https://maddiemcguirecoaching.com/ @messywithmaddie:   / messywithmaddie