The Year That Almost Broke Me

2025 was the year that stretched me to my limits — financially, emotionally, and spiritually.In this episode, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes chapter I almost didn’t want to talk about: losing nearly 90% of my income, questioning my identity, releasing work that no longer lit me up, and seriously considering walking away from my business altogether.This year was known as the year of the snake — a season of shedding layers, identities, relationships, and paths that were never meant to come with us into the next chapter. And for me, that shedding wasn’t gentle.I talk openly about:* What it feels like to lose income overnight as a mom in business* Why pivoting into mindset and energetics required me to release fear of judgment* The healing work I had to face when old wounds resurfaced* How slowing down, trusting God, and simplifying my business changed everything* And the two phrases that carried me through the hardest days: “You do not yield” and “To whatever end”If you’re a book girly who’s read Throne of Glass, you’ll understand exactly why Aelin’s story mattered so much to me this year. And if you’re not — you’ll still feel the truth behind choosing not to surrender who you are, even when everything familiar falls away.If 2025 stretched you, cracked you open, or forced you to become someone new — this episode will remind you that you didn’t fail.You transformed.What You’ll Hear in This Episode* Why 2025 felt like a breaking point — and why it wasn’t a mistake* Losing 90% of my income and what it revealed about my business* Outgrowing “safe” work and listening to the call for something deeper* Pivoting into mindset and energetics without needing permission* Almost returning to corporate — and why I ultimately chose alignment* Healing old wounds instead of pushing harder* Simplifying my business to support life as a two-under-two mom* The book-girly lesson that kept me going when I wanted to quit* Why shedding is often the doorway to embodimentWho This Episode Is For* Moms building a business who feel stretched thin* Entrepreneurs navigating an identity shift or pivot* Women who lost momentum, income, or passion and feel scared to admit it* Anyone standing at the edge of a new chapter, wondering if they’re strong enoughKey TakeawaySome years aren’t about expansion — they’re about release.And when you refuse to yield during the shedding season, you don’t lose yourself.You become her. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aliciacroci.substack.com