Episode 519: Jason Almost Broke Up With Me—Here’s Why
“Tracy, I thought you were having an affair with someone else, but I realized you're having an affair on me with your business.”
Those words from Jason hit me like a lightning bolt. They forced me to confront something I'd been avoiding: I was changing, evolving, feeling called to something new—but I was ignoring it all to maintain the status quo.
In today's vulnerable episode, I'm sharing how ignoring my creative calling nearly cost me my relationship and how the hidden costs of staying stuck might be affecting you too.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- [2:40] How my relationship with Jason almost ended because I was having “an affair with my business”
- [7:15] The exact moment I realized I was stuck in a trauma loop that led to burnout
- [10:32] Why Brené Brown says unexpressed creativity “metastasizes into shame and anger”
- [13:18] The five hidden costs of ignoring your creative calling and reinvention
- [17:45] How to move forward into your next chapter without burning everything down
When Your Business Becomes an Affair
Have you ever felt that tug toward something bigger but stayed frozen in place because of fear, obligation, or comfort? I've been there.
A few years ago, my relationship with Jason almost ended—not because we didn't love each other, but because I was changing rapidly and refused to acknowledge it. I'd spent so much time focused on who I used to be and what I'd built that I ignored my evolution.
The more I ignored this call to expand and become something bigger, the more it cost me—not just in my business, but in my overall happiness, relationships, and fulfillment.
The Hidden Costs of Ignoring Your Creative Calling
As Brené Brown says, creativity unexpressed “metastasizes into shame and anger and fear and depression.” When we resist reinvention, we pay in ways we don't always recognize.
1. The Obligation Trap
When you operate out of obligation instead of choice—whether to your existing business, job, family, or team—you create a prison for yourself. It's hard to get behind something you feel obligated to do.
2. The Time Excuse
Claiming you don't have time to pursue what calls you is often just another way to hide in procrastination and perfectionism. What happens if you don't start this reinvention? Six months down the road? A year? Two years?
As I learned when my mom passed away just before my 22nd birthday, tomorrow isn't guaranteed. The saddest part was that she had finally made time to do the thing she wanted—and then her life was taken away.
3. The “Too Late” Mindset
You might think, “I needed this six months ago,” but what I've seen from talking to so many people in this process is that they're still stuck—not clear on their offer, how they're moving forward, or what their plan is.
4. The Financial Fear
One of the biggest concerns people share is walking away from financial stability. But staying in misaligned work ultimately costs more long-term—not just financially, but emotionally and energetically.
5. The Comfort Zone
It might feel cozy where you are, but we know there's no growth in your comfort zone. Staying comfortable traps you and keeps you from reaching your maximum potential and impact.
If anything in this episode resonates with you, consider it your sign. It's time to stop overthinking and start stepping into your next evolution.
If you're finding value in these creative reinvention strategies, I'd be so grateful if you'd give the podcast a 5-star rating and review! Your feedback helps us reach more creative entrepreneurs just like you!
xo, Tracy
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