When the “Real World” Writes Your Script (And How to Take the Pen Back!)
- Tami West, PhD
- Jul 30
- 3 min read
Push. Push. Push.
From the second your feet hit the floor, it’s on. Cooking breakfast while folding laundry. Getting kids to school (bonus points if they go to different ones). Juggling deadlines, dishes, and dentist appointments.
One mom told me she eats her breakfast standing at the stove while flipping bacon because sitting down feels like a luxury. Sound familiar?
We’ve normalized this pace so much, we start to believe it’s what “responsible” looks like. And if we stop—even for a breath—we’re slacking, right?
Here’s the problem:That script you’re living?You may not have written it.
The Real World… or Just a Story?
You’ve probably heard someone say it:
“In the real world, we don’t get breaks.”“In the real world, there’s no time for self-care.”“Must be nice to have time to relax.”
But what IS the real world?If it’s just nonstop busyness, then where does that leave anyone who isn’t in a constant state of chaos? Do they even matter?
The truth is, “the real world” is a story. A script. And like any story—it can be challenged, rewritten, and reclaimed.
Step One: Go Outside.
No really. That’s it.Because when you step outside—even for five minutes—something powerful happens. You shift your environment, your brain resets, your nervous system calms down.
You stop doing for a moment, and you start being.
This isn't about going on a wellness retreat. It's about standing in your driveway and noticing the breeze. It's about one quiet loop around the office building. It's about remembering you're more than the next thing on the list.
Want to Rewrite Your Script?
I created a free printable just for this:“Rewrite the Script”It’s in the Resource Vault waiting for you.
Because you get to decide what your life looks like—not the voices saying you should “push harder” or “get real.”
Let’s reclaim the script, friend.
Go outside.
Take a breath.
And remember who’s holding the pen.
And if you haven’t downloaded your vault access yet, grab it here (no spam, I promise!).
If this resonated with you, hit reply or come find me on socials and let me know:
Which phrase resonates with you most?
Engage with the full resources mentioned this week in my Resource Vault
I’d love to hear from you. And if you missed any of the social posts, you can check them out on Facebook or grab your free downloads from the Resource Vault.
Keep the Conversation Going!
Which of these topics helped you most this week? Drop a comment below or send me a message—I love hearing your stories. And if you want downloadable quote cards, images, or deep-dive guides for any of these posts, just let me know!
Love & Hugs,
Tami
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Tami West, PhD
Stress and Mental Health Expert Dr. Tami West uses her entertaining and compelling style to shine a new light on how to transform your life and discover solutions to life’s challenges.
Tami has worked in a variety of industries including healthcare, school nutrition, corporate sales, and 10 years as a public-school teacher. In 2013 she received her PhD in Human Development, studying the connections among stress, emotions, and identity.
Dr. West has spoken in 48 states across the US, as well as the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. In any given year, Tami speaks to groups with audiences consisting of anywhere from 100 to 3,000 people.
Dr. West is the author of several successful publications including three books: The Stress Club, Life Without the Monsters and Thrive. When she's not speaking or writing, you might find her with her traveling with her husband and family, reading historical fiction, or watching Big Bang Theory.
Tami connects with audiences through real experience, cutting edge research, and transparent stories – all sprinkled with humor! She will make you laugh, cry, and shine a refreshingly new light on life's challenges.
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Contact Tami at tamiwest@tamiwest.com
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