You Are Enough

Originally published December 30, 2025

"You are enough. You are so enough. It’s unbelievable how enough you are."

These words were spoken by our Season Two guest, Sierra Boggess, and I find myself returning to them often. Especially this time of year, when social feeds and advertisers line up to tell me all the ways I should be fixing myself.

Apparently I need to lose weight, reduce stress, discover my “best self,” and purchase a version of self-care that suspiciously looks like a sales funnel. If one more ad tries to convince me I’m not enough unless I buy something, I may be tempted to throw my phone directly into the ocean.

This year, I spent most of my time surviving. I didn’t accomplish nearly as much as I hoped. And you know what? That’s okay.

As members of the sandwich generation, my husband and I are caring for our aging parents while also raising a young child. Some days, surviving the day is the goal. I often fight that reality, and the universe reliably reminds me who’s in charge.

Which brings me to self-care.

Somewhere along the way, the wellness industry drifted far from actual care. I fully support massages, time with friends, and moments of indulgence. But many things labeled as self-care are just distractions. Saying “I practiced self-care today” because you booked a service is not the same as sitting alone with your thoughts or asking yourself hard questions.

Avoiding the work isn’t self-care. It’s avoidance.

So as we head into a new year, here’s my wish for you. Accept where you are and start from there. Love who you are in this moment. Take stock of what you already have. And don’t buy into the idea that you aren’t enough.

Because you are.

Looking ahead to 2026

• Two final episodes to close out Season Seven and our “Tools in the Toolbox” series, featuring Broadway director turned executive coach Gina Rattan and sports and performance coach Antonette Cohen.

• From “Stuck” to "Started": A Creators WorkshopHave a project you’ve been talking about longer than you’ve been working on? This 10-week workshop is designed to help you move an idea into action. Together, we’ll break your project into manageable goals, build accountability, and create real momentum. You’ll leave with a finished product, not just good intentions. Space is limited. Reply to this email for more information.

Thank you for being here, for listening, and for continuing to show up exactly as you are.

You are enough.

🎧 If you want to check out Sierra's episode, click here.

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Thanks for sharing part of your day with Anxiety and the Artist.Be healthy. Stay creative.

– Allison and the A&A team