In this episode of From the Ashes, I dig deep into one of the most universal blocks on the journey to personal transformation: getting out of our own way. I share personal stories, cultural reflections, and the mindset shifts I’ve experienced—and continue to practice—to move beyond self-sabotage.
We unpack why so many of us know what we want but stop short of going after it, and how invisible “rules,” survival programming, and old belief systems keep us stuck. I also walk you through powerful journal prompts and four essential tools that can truly shift your trajectory.
🔥 If you’re feeling that tug in your soul to do more, be more, and live in full alignment—this one’s for you.
[01:00] – I shared a story about a man who wanted to get healthier—but stopped short with “That’s something to think about.” That moment reminded me how often we delay aligned action and let our minds talk us out of doing the simple next thing.
[03:11] – The reason we stall, hesitate, and hold ourselves back is self-sabotage. Sometimes we know exactly what we want—and still don’t act on it. That awareness is step one.
[05:07] – A big question: What’s the thing you’re afraid to admit you want? Not the “nice to have,” but the truth beneath all the conditioning and fear. That’s where your power lives.
[07:33] – I introduced the idea of “BRULES”—bullsh*t rules we unconsciously live by. From how we were raised to what society tells us, these are the rules keeping us small. And we get to opt out.
[13:14] – I talked about obedience, cultural conditioning, and how it forms a survival mindset. Obedience kept me safe as a kid, but as an adult, I realized it was blocking my voice, joy, and freedom.
[20:04] – I shared what I believe are the four keys to truly breaking free and how without these, we usually stay stuck in the same patterns, just hoping something shifts.
[23:20] – I reminded myself—and you—that staying stuck is hard, too. Thriving takes courage, but the cost of not choosing your dreams? That’s a different kind of pain. And we get to choose our “hard.”
✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of Intrepid Wellness, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time.
📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way.
Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose.
Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself.
Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode?
Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at valerie@intrepidwellness.life
If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix.
