The World Series, the New York Marathon, the US elections – we’ve had some really big finish lines in the past couple of weeks. What’s interesting is that I don’t think we talk enough about the letdown that comes after finish lines. With the things that we try, there is often a post-event exhale that is not always easy.

After months of preparing a podcast episode with Melissa Arnot Reid, I expected relief. Instead, I felt exhausted and a little lost. I explore that post-achievement low with this Life of Try episode about goal setting, expectations, personal growth, and making room for rest after a meaningful effort.

Drawing on reflections from therapist Niro Feliciano and research psychologist Dr. Richard Brown, I talk about loosening your grip on outcomes, enjoying the process, and finding contentment in everyday moments—from a cup of tea to a Cheetos puzzle.

In this episode, I explore:

• The arrival fallacy: expecting a goal to bring lasting satisfaction
• Feeling proud and tired at the same time
• Finding small joys beyond achievement
• Moving toward your next try with kindness rather than pressure

If you’ve finished a project, returned from a long-awaited trip, or reached a milestone and wondered, “Now what?”—this conversation is for you. Please subscribe to The Life of Try, leave a comment with your biggest takeaway, and share this episode with someone who needs the reminder to let the effort count. And let the rest count, too.

• Click this link to watch in a browser: The Arrival Fallacy: Finding Your Way After a Big Goal
• Subscribe to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thelifeoftry
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Links for this episode:

The Arrival Fallacy: Finding Your Way After a Big Goal transcript

Why Do I Still Feel Like a Failure After Reaching a Goal? A Therapist Explains by Niro Feliciano

Post-Achievement Depression: Overcoming the Slump | Psychology Today by Richard Brown

Related Episode

Growth Mindset, Habit Formation, and the Power of Rest

Success isn’t always about finishing first. Sometimes the greatest victories belong to those who stay prepared, keep growing, and never stop trying.

(featured photo from Pexels)

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You can find me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wynneleon/ and Instagram wynneleon