Choosing the Life You Want, Not Just the Life You Have to Live

Sometimes, it feels like we’re all just running.

 From the minute the alarm goes off to the second our head hits the pillow, it’s one long race — meetings, kids, laundry, dinners, bills, deadlines. And somewhere in there, we’re supposed to be happy.

When I sat down with Tiffany Sauder for this episode of Work in Progress, I didn’t expect her words to lift such a weight off my shoulders. But they did. And I think they might do the same for you.

We Don’t Have to Do It All

Tiffany reminded me that there’s no prize for doing every single thing yourself. Somewhere along the way, many of us — especially women — were told that a “good” mom, wife, friend, or leader handles it all, perfectly.

But here’s the thing: it’s exhausting. And it’s not sustainable.

Tiffany has built her life around doing the things that matter most to her and letting go of the rest — whether that’s outsourcing laundry or carving out time for what truly lights her up. Her kids still learn the skills they need, but they also see their mom creating space for joy, purpose, and rest.

It’s not laziness. It’s intentional living.

From “Have To” to “Want To”

This is Tiffany’s mission right now — helping women move from a life of “have to” into a life of “want to.” That means taking ownership of our time, resources, and choices, so the days we’re living actually feel like ours.

By the end of our conversation, I felt lighter. Like maybe I can release some of the things I’ve been gripping so tightly. Like maybe it’s okay to let go of the pressure to be everything, all the time.

We’re in This Together

If any of this is hitting home for you, you’re not alone. We’re all figuring it out, one small choice at a time.

So here’s my question for you — what’s one thing you could let go of this week to make space for something you want to do? I’d love to hear your answers. DM me, email me, send me a voice note — whatever works.

And if you want more of Tiffany’s wisdom, visit tiffanysauder.com. Trust me, she’s someone you’ll want in your corner.

We don’t have to keep living the life we have to. We can start building the life we want to — together.

Much love,

Gayle