Ever notice that more isn’t necessarily better? That’s diminishing returns.
Here are 3 simple steps to avoid doing too much…
Hey y’all, welcome to Lovin My Daughter-in-law podcast where connection, love, and a whole lot of fun come together.
I am LeAnn Austin, boy mom and teacher turned master certified life coach, who once had all the feelings when cute girlies started dating my sons. I had to learn a lot about love, boundaries and connection, not just with my daughters-in-law, but with myself. That’s how Lovin My Daughter-in-law was born.
So if you’re craving more love, connection, and fun in your life, especially the kind that starts from within, this podcast is for you.
Today’s episode #194: When More Backfires: The Secret of Diminishing Returns
Okay y’all, let’s talk about pizza for a second. You know that first slice-cheesy, hot, delicious, pure joy, right? But then, the second slice is pretty good, the third slice still okay, and by the fourth or fifth slice, you’re leaning back, unbuttoning your pants, and wondering why you thought “all you can eat” was a good idea.
More isn’t better. It actually makes you feel worse. That, my friends, is called diminishing returns.
And here’s the thing, it’s not just about food. It shows up everywhere. Like sending 10 texts when one thoughtful one would’ve been enough. The extra doesn’t add connection, it can actually push people away.
Sometimes more actually backfires. Instead of giving us better results, it leaves us drained, overwhelmed, or even resentful. That’s what we’re talking about today. When more backfires or what this fancy term calls the law of diminishing returns.
So here are three simple steps to avoid doing too much. Let’s call it the “Enough” framework.
Step number one: Pause and Check
Before adding more effort, pause and ask: “Am I really getting enough benefit for the effort I’m putting in?” Even a ten second pause can save hours of wasted energy. Ask yourself, am I energized or drained right now? And is this really moving me in the direction I want to go.
Step number two: Pick Your Essentials
Focus on the one or two things that matter most. Instead of doing everything, ask what actions give me the biggest return. Often doing less is doing more. Like sending three thoughtful emails instead of 10 rushed ones.
And step number three: Celebrate Enough
Learn to stop at the point of diminishing returns. Finish with a mini ritual: a deep breath, a high five, or a little note of gratitude. Recognize that stopping doesn’t mean failing. It means you work smart and efficiently.
And a little tip, notice the relief and clarity you feel when you stop adding unnecessary effort.
Well, here’s a little challenge for you this week:
Pick one area in your life: work, home, or self-care, where you usually do more than enough. Apply the “Enough” framework. Remember, pause, pick the essentials, and celebrate stopping. Notice how it feels to work smarter rather than harder.
And if you want more tools for managing stress, energy, and making life feel lighter, come join us in Connection Crew ~ where we explore these ideas together, plus worksheets, videos, and lots of little hacks to help you thrive without burning out.
Remember, more is not always better. Sometimes enough is exactly what you need. Hmm, something to think about.
Here’s to the secret of diminishing returns, less is more, fun, connection, and love. Have a good one y’all.
Thanks for hanging out with me today on Lovin My Daughter-in-law podcast. I hope you’re walking away with a little more connection, love, and lightness in your heart.
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And if you’re tired of walking on eggshells, second guessing yourself, feeling disconnected, or ready to learn all about your nervous system, come join us inside Connection Crew or grab some One-on-One Coaching. I’d love to be your coach and cheer you on!
Until next time, be you, love you, build connections, and have some fun.