Life rarely unfolds according to our carefully laid plans. Have you ever poured your heart into a project or goal, only to see it fizzle or stall? It’s downright defeating. When the pieces don’t fall into place, it’s easy to feel like the universe is ignoring you—or worse, working against you.

In past years, I found myself in that pit more times than I’d like to admit. Plans derailed, dreams delayed, and doubts louder than ever. There were moments I felt worthless, frustrated, and deeply discouraged. I thought I’d be further along in my business by now—living the vision I had so clearly mapped out in my head.

If you’re feeling like this lately, let me tell you: it’s real, it’s raw, and it sucks. There’s no sugarcoating the weight of those emotions. When it feels like everything is falling apart, it’s easy to believe the universe has forgotten you.

But here’s the truth, my friend: this isn’t the end of your story. Recharge yourself. Adjust where needed so you’re working smarter, not harder. Hold onto the dreams that light you up, and don’t stop moving forward.

I’ve been there, and I’m living proof that coming out on the other side isn’t some unattainable pipe dream. It’s real, and it’s achievable—very achievable. This year reminded me that the universe often delivers in unexpected ways. Let me share what I’ve learned about trusting the process and staying open to what’s waiting for you just around the corner.

Trust the Process: Lessons in Unexpected Opportunities

One surprising lesson came from pursuing a speaking spot at a local networking group. After months of following up without success, I decided to let it go. Or probably more accurately, it slipped off my radar. But then, out of nowhere, the group leader reached out. She hadn’t forgotten about me; in fact, she wanted me to speak. That simple moment was a reminder: when something is meant for you, it will come to you, even when you stop chasing it.

Then there was the big event I spoke at this year. It was a success in many ways, but while other speakers were immediately landing clients, I found I was feeling sorry for myself - because I didn’t. The doubt crept in: Was my talk good enough? Did I make a difference? But a few months later, I learned that one of the event’s attendees had heard glowing feedback about my session. She didn’t even attend my talk but was so impressed by what she’d heard that she invited me to speak in front of her group! That opportunity—my first paid speaking gig—holds even greater promise, as they host multiple events each year and have sister groups across the country. It’s so much bigger and better than I ever imagined!

Earlier this year, I faced another unexpected lesson. I had to let a couple of clients know that we weren’t the right fit. It wasn’t easy—I love these clients as people. They’re inspiring, and spending time with them energizes me. But I realized something important: the way they needed help didn’t align with my passion (work I’m motivated to do - 25mindset.com).

Looking back, I see how I’d been holding onto rigid expectations about serving everyone who came my way. I thought saying “no” would mean failure or missed opportunities. But the universe had a bigger plan. By releasing what wasn’t aligned, I created space for opportunities that are. Now, I have more energy to serve my current clients and attract new ones who are more aligned with my strengths and motivation.

These experiences weren’t coincidences. They were powerful reminders that the best opportunities often arise when you least expect them. By staying open, trusting the process, and releasing rigid expectations, I found myself stepping into possibilities far greater than I could have planned!

Why Letting Go of Control Opens New Doors

As business owners and dreamers, we love control. We map out plans, set deadlines, and visualize outcomes. But life doesn’t follow blueprints. The harder we cling to rigid expectations, the harder we make it for opportunities to flow in.

This year, I realized that letting go doesn’t mean giving up. It means staying flexible and curious. When one door closes, the universe might be nudging you toward an open window you didn’t notice.

Flexibility isn’t just about adapting to change—it’s about embracing it. When we approach the unexpected with curiosity, we uncover opportunities we couldn’t have imagined.

Lessons from the Universe’s Timing

Here’s the thing about the universe: its timing is perfect, even when it feels imperfect to us. Persistence is essential, but so is patience. Sometimes, you need to plant seeds and let them grow at their own pace.

When you least expect it, opportunities arrive. Sometimes they’re dressed as setbacks. Other times, they’re gifts you couldn’t have planned for if you tried. My journey this year reminded me that faith in the process is just as important as the hustle.

The Question Queen 👑: Time to Think

Take a moment and ask yourself these important questions:

• Are my expectations so rigid that I’m missing unexpected opportunities?

• How do I react when things don’t go according to plan—do I adapt or shut down?

• What’s one setback this year that might actually have been a blessing in disguise?

The One Thing ⬇️

The universe always delivers, but not on your timeline or in the way you planned. Letting go of control doesn’t mean giving up; it means creating space for opportunities you didn’t see coming. If you trust the process, stay open, and keep moving forward, the right doors will open—exactly when you need them to.

Ready to reflect on the lessons 2024 taught you and step into 2025 with clarity and purpose? Join me for a End-of-Year Reflection Workshop where we’ll assess what worked, what didn’t, and how to use both as a springboard for success in the new year.Sign up here and make space for the unexpected opportunities waiting for you.