Redefining Success: Why “Enough” Might Be Exactly Where You Are

In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, be more, and achieve more, we rarely stop to ask: What does success really mean to me? And more importantly—is it time to redefine it?

The Problem with “Should”

So many of us are weighed down by “shoulds.”
“I should be further along in my career by now.”
“I should have reached this milestone already.”
“I should feel more successful.”

But what if we let go of the “shoulds” entirely?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that when we keep raising the bar, we never allow ourselves to feel like we’ve actually made it. Society encourages us to keep chasing new goals, climbing higher, and hitting the next big milestone—but at what cost?

When Is It Ever Enough?

We’re often hardest on ourselves. Even when we’re doing “okay,” something unexpected can knock us back—like a lost opportunity, a sudden job change, or seeing a peer’s success and wondering why we’re not there yet.

Comparison is everywhere. And even though we tell ourselves not to compare, it’s tough when social media feeds us highlight reels of where everyone else seems to be. We forget that the timeline we’re comparing our lives to was often created years ago—based on a version of ourselves that no longer exists.

Embracing a New Definition of Success

What if we gave ourselves permission to rewrite that timeline?
What if success wasn’t about constant achievement, but about resilience, growth, and self-compassion?

Take a moment to look at how far you’ve come—not how far you think you still need to go. Consider the challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve continued to move forward, even in times of doubt, fear, or darkness.

There was likely a time when you dreamed of being where you are right now.

And yet, because it’s our own story, we often downplay it. We forget how extraordinary our own journey is—because we’ve lived it. But it’s not boring. It’s not insignificant. It’s yours.

In Your Own Way, In Your Own Time

Years ago, I had lunch with a director I deeply admire. At the time, I was struggling with self-worth and feeling “behind” in my career. I’ll never forget what they told me:
“Things will happen in your own way, and in your own time.”

Those words stayed with me through career uncertainties, personal loss, and the process of healing from an unhealthy relationship. Looking back, I want to hug that younger version of myself who didn’t feel like she was enough—because I know she’d be proud of how far we’ve come.

So if you’re feeling lost, stuck, or like you’re not “there” yet—take a breath.
Maybe you’re already more successful than you think.
Maybe, just maybe, you’re exactly where you’re meant to be right now.

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Why We Need Superheroes Now More Than Ever

As a little girl, I lived for Halloween. (Oh, who am I kidding? As an adult – I still do). This was one of my favorite costumes as a kid (thanks, mom and dad) and I wanted to be Supergirl every day of the year. Looking back at this picture, it’s easy to see why: superheroes were larger-than-life figures who made us believe that anything was possible. And after watching the new Superman trailer that dropped today, I’m reminded of just how much we need that sense of hope, especially now.

In a world that can often feel dark and overwhelming, superheroes remind us that even in our toughest moments, there’s always the possibility of good triumphing over evil. Superman might be flying high above the clouds, but his message is simple and grounded: hope, courage, and the belief that we can all be heroes in our own way.

Whether you’re fighting for justice like Superman or just trying to get through a tough week, we all have moments when we need a little extra inspiration. Maybe it’s remembering that small acts of kindness are the real superpowers, or that standing up for what’s right can change the world—no matter how big or small the action.

Superheroes are more than just capes and special powers. They’re about rising above, showing resilience, and believing in something bigger than yourself. And right now, I think we could all use that reminder. 

So here’s to the heroes, both real and fictional, who remind us that it’s okay to be human, to struggle, and to keep fighting for the greater good. Whether you’re donning a cape or just showing up for someone when they need it most, you’re making a difference.

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Art isn’t easy…

How do you solve a problem like Maria? Well, let’s take a cue from the world of musical theatre. There’s a lot we can learn from those catchy tunes and heartfelt lyrics, especially when it comes to navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

Take a classic line like “Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor” from Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that opportunities are fleeting – they come and go quickly, and if we’re not paying attention, we might miss our chance to seize them.

This concept is especially relevant for creative entrepreneurs. In a fast-paced industry where trends change at the drop of a hat, it’s essential to stay alert and ready to pounce on any opportunity that comes your way. Whether it’s a chance to collaborate with a like-minded artist or a potential partnership with a big-name brand, being proactive and quick to act can set you apart from the competition.

But seizing opportunities is just one piece of the puzzle. Sometimes, knowing when to walk away is just as important. In Into the Woods, the characters grapple with the consequences of their actions and learn that sometimes, the pursuit of one’s desires can come at a cost. As entrepreneurs, it’s important to recognize when a venture isn’t working out and be willing to pivot or cut our losses when necessary. It’s all part of the process of growth and adaptation.

Of course, entrepreneurship isn’t all about seizing opportunities and making tough decisions – it’s also about creativity and innovation. Musicals like Hamilton and Rent remind us of the power of bold ideas and thinking outside the box. Whether you’re revolutionizing an industry with a groundbreaking product or finding new ways to connect with your audience through storytelling, embracing your creativity can be the key to success in the competitive world of entrepreneurship.

So the next time you’re facing a challenge or searching for inspiration, don’t be afraid to turn to the stage for guidance. You might just find that the lessons of musical theatre have a lot to teach us about navigating the twists and turns of the entrepreneurial journey. After all, art isn’t easy, but it’s so rewarding.

You can take the girl off the stage, but she’ll find her way back home to the theatre.

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the most annoying sound in the world

I saw a negative review for a project I worked on.


Not only did they critique my performance, but also went after my voice, calling it the most annoying sound they’ve ever heard.


The. Most. Annoying. Sound. They’ve. Ever. Heard.


My voice.


The thing I use to make a living.


Maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan.


I’d be lying if I said it didn’t sting a little.


As much as we can pretend to not care when something someone says hurts us, that’s exactly it… we’re just pretending.


We’re still human. We still want to be liked by others. We still feel.


I’ve been an actor for a long time. I know the ins and outs of rejection and not being the right “fit” for a project. I’m no stranger to reading reviews and feedback from directors and critics alike.
There’s absolutely something to be said for constructive criticism and learning where we could improve, especially when it comes to our craft. As an actor, you’ve got to be directable.


Generally speaking, I think we should strive to be better and grow where we can.


But sometimes, we aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.
And that’s okay.


Because I’m a coffee drinker.
But seriously.


Don’t let the world dim your shine because of a bad day or a bad review.

Because the people who DO love you for who you are, the clients who DO love your voice and your work, and the world… well, they need you to be your authentic self. To give what you’ve got and keep showing up.


Shine on, my friends 💜

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one small step for man…

A photo I took on my visit to Kennedy Space Center in March 2019

… and what a giant leap it was.

I was lucky enough to hear stories about it first-hand from those who were there, both in person and watching it on television with people around the world.

Although I wasn’t there, getting to relive those memories with people who were is a memory I’ll always cherish and never forget.

Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins were names I knew very well when I was growing up. Many summers of my childhood consisted of pool parties like your average kid, with visits to JPL, conventions, Planetary Society meetings, and gatherings to watch Mars landings sprinkled in between.

52 years ago today, the impossible happened.

We learned more about science, our world, and the mysteries of the cosmos.

We learned that the impossible WAS actually possible.

We believed we could achieve anything.

That’s the spirit I’m carrying with me today.

I hope it inspires you today, too ❤

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