This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at what really happens when success comes faster than your nervous system knows how to hold.

I’m sharing the full story of what unfolded after a wildly intuitive, expansive year in business and how unworthiness, perfectionism, and fear quietly took over once things felt “too easy.” What followed was burnout, over-efforting, identity collapse, and ultimately a five-month sabbatical that changed everything.

We’re talking about the nervous system science behind becoming the woman you desire to be… not through force or mindset hacks, but through safety, practice, and embodiment. Why “acting as if” actually works, how success can feel threatening to the body, and why breaking was the doorway to everything I was trying to create.

This is about becoming her from the inside out.

TOPICS & TANGENTS:
• What happens when success outpaces nervous system capacity
• The hidden unworthiness that follows “too easy” wins
• Perfectionism as protection, not discipline
• Why success can feel unsafe to the body
• The be–do–have model vs. chasing outcomes
• Acting as if through nervous system rehearsal, not pretending
• Identity, safety, and practicing your future before it arrives
• Why abundance requires regulation, not effort
• Micro decisions that rewire who you’re becoming

POINT OF THE STORY:
You don’t become her by achieving more.
You become her by teaching your body it’s safe to be who you already are.

MENTIONED:
• Microdosing as a nervous-system support for neuroplasticity and regulation
• Golden Rule — including Superflow and Soul Gummies
• Code ASH10 for 10% off

If you’re setting goals for the next season of your life and wondering why they feel heavy instead of exciting, this episode is your reminder: becoming her starts with safety, not pressure.

Are you loving it? Send Ash a text!

MORE ABOUT ASH
I am the definition of duality — I swear like a sailor and break rules like it’s my job, but I also hold incredible space for my clients and work my ass off to help them achieve the success they’re after. But I'm also here for the non-preneur woman, too. My background in counseling gives me a unique perspective on what it means to show up, serve, & create connection for those who feel like they've never belonged before.

LINKS:

• Become the Regulated Woman
• Get emails that feel like your best friend (if your best friend was a therapist and actually told you the truth).
• Use code BB20 to get The Burnout Breakthrough for only $7
• Follow me on IG (dropping in once a quarter for updates & gossip)
• Website: ashmcdonaldmentoring.com

Work with me 1:1

• Therapeutic Mentorship
• Business Therapy (therapy + strategic mentorship)
• ...