Episode 2: What I’d Tell My 25-Year-Old Self About Career, Control & Joy

Summary:

Ever wish you could go back and give your younger self a little advice—the kind that saves you from burnout, confusion, and running in circles trying to prove yourself? In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the three most powerful lessons I’ve learned in my career—ones I wish someone had told me 20 years ago.

If you're navigating a transition, questioning your path, or just tired of doing all the right things and still feeling stuck, this episode is for you.

Spoiler: success isn’t just about doing great work—it’s about alignment, visibility, and creating a life that doesn’t revolve entirely around your title.

⏱️ Episode Highlights + Time Stamps:

[3:30] Lesson #1: Let Go of the Illusion of Control

I introduce my "Hula Hoop Theory"—a simple but powerful exercise to help you focus on what’s really yours to carry. If you’ve been spinning your wheels trying to control everything (and everyone), this one’s for you.

🔁 Try it: Step into a real or imaginary hula hoop. What’s inside your circle of control today?

[8:20] Lesson #2: Great Work Isn’t Always Enough

This one hits hard: you can be the best at what you do and still be overlooked. We talk about why visibility matters as much as competence—and how to stop waiting to be discovered.

🎯 Try it: Draft 2–3 soundbite-worthy statements about your wins. Practice saying them out loud. Make it easy for others to champion you.

[13:00] Lesson #3: Expand Beyond Work

Tunnel vision on your job will burn you out and bore you. I share what I wish I’d done to stay more grounded, more joyful, and more me—even when work felt all-consuming.

🎨 Try it: Revisit a hobby, sport, or cause you used to love. Ask yourself: is it time to bring it back?

✨ Reflection Prompts:

What are you gripping that’s outside your hula hoop?
Are you waiting to be discovered—or are you showing up visibly?
What could bring more meaning outside of work?
💬 Mentioned in the Episode:

Hula Hoop Theory – my go-to framework for focus and boundaries
Hard truth: Promotions don’t always go to the most competent—they go to the most visible
My own story: I wish I’d stuck with tennis across my many moves
👀 Who This Episode Is For:

Mid-career professionals feeling unseen or underestimated
Emerging leaders who want to rise without losing themselves
High achievers ready to build a fulfilling life, not just a resume
📩 Want to Go Deeper?

Try the Hula Hoop Exercise with your team or on your own
Post your 3 lessons for your younger self and tag me @loripine
Book a 1:1 Coaching Call: loripine.com
🎧 Subscribe to The Joy CEO Podcast

⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and a comment if this episode resonated with you—it helps more than you know.

📲 Share with someone who’s ready to rise—with clarity, courage, and JOY