I don’t work nights, weekends, or during my luteal phase
After hustling through my 20s and 30s, spiraling into burnout, along with a late-ADHD diagnosis, my business in 2026 HAS to run differently.
I literally spent two years in my parents guest room, watching everything on every streaming platform, recovering from my own life. I like to say if you don’t take a break, a break will take you because it absolutely will and recovery will take longer than you think.
Since coming back to San Diego last October I’ve been intensely paying attention to how my brain and body work in relation to running my business.
One thing became clear - I cannot work during my luteal phase.
I have zero drive to work. My ability to focus enough to edit blog posts whittles to nothing. I stare at the screen wondering if the post I’ve almost finished is actually garbage. Being perceived on social media feels intrusive. I feel the pressure to post even though there is none.
And it doesn’t just show up in my business: I’m currently re-washing a load of laundry I already washed TWICE because I forgot to put it in the dryer. After the second wash there of course was a hint of that smell so I had to wash them again.
It’s a combination of low dopamine, low energy, with a lack of focus that is exasperated by ADHD. Plus perimenopause though I’m combating that with hormones.
Now, knowing it’s fully a luteal-phase related pattern, instead of pushing myself, I keep an eye on my cycle tracker and plan for a light work week.
Luckily for every day I’m only able to do laundry, take care of Hazel, and feed myself, I get hours of non-stop focus where I can do all the work I want. It took time to feel comfortable with that productivity flow, but now it’s just part of the schedule. My brain needs a few days off every month so I make that happen. I’m the boss, of course!
Over the next couple of months I’ll be stock piling posts and filling my luteal phase with guest content. If you’re interested in writing for Dare to Grow - submit your post ideas over here. I’ve already got THREE lined up that I’m so excited to share with you!
