Episode 8. The Upper Limit Problem

Why does success sometimes feel… uncomfortable? You finally build a savings habit, find calm, or hit a big goal. And then, out of nowhere, you knock yourself off track. This isn’t just self-sabotage. It’s what psychologist Gay Hendricks calls the upper limit problem: an unconscious ceiling on how much happiness, peace, or success we allow ourselves before retreating to the familiar.In this episode of Less Hustle. More Intention, Oliver Schnusenberg, finance professor, life coach, therapist-in-training, and neuroscience enthusiast, unpacks the science behind upper limits. You’ll hear:A personal story about choking at 16 and how it reveals a “fear of winning”Why the brain isn’t wired for happiness but for the familiarCommon signs you’ve hit your own upper limitA 3-step practice to normalize success and let peace feel safeSometimes the hardest part isn’t pushing forward. It’s letting success feel normal. Join Oliver for an insightful and practical conversation about raising your ceiling and living more intentionally.