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158. How To Be Present in Your Life Again: The Story Behind Below The Circle
Description
What if you have become so good at managing your life that you no longer feel fully present in it?
There are seasons when caring for others, meeting responsibilities, and simply keeping everything moving can leave you feeling like you are circling above your own life. You are present for everyone and everything, but somewhere along the way, you may stop feeling present in your own days.
In this episode, Dr. Phyllis shares the personal story behind Below the Circle and the phrase she kept repeating during a demanding season: I just want to land. She explores caregiving, grief, achievement, control, faith, and surrender, and offers a gentle reminder that becoming more present does not require abandoning the life or people you love.
This week’s reflection:
Where in my life am I present for it, but not really present in it?
In this episode:
(0:00) The words “I just want to land” and the season behind them
(2:03) Being present for your life versus being present in it
(2:55) The story and meaning behind Below the Circle
(4:38) How achievement and responsibility can create a sense of control
(5:32) When working harder can no longer fix what life brings
(7:30) Asking, “Am I living my life or managing it?”
(8:04) What it means to keep circling through life
(10:15) Coming down into the life you are actually living
(11:51) Why landing does not mean leaving your responsibilities behind
(13:58) Creating a space for women who are tired of holding everything together
(15:19) Believing it is not too late and that nothing has been wasted
(16:26) The prodigal daughter, coming home, and finding yourself again
(17:56) Releasing control and learning what belongs to you and what belongs to God
(20:33) Why landing means entering your life, not escaping it
(21:38) When surviving your life is no longer the same as living it
(22:55) One question to help you notice where you may still be circling
If you know you want to live your life differently—not just keep getting through it—join Dr. Phyllis on Substack for weekly reflections, deeper conversations, and encouragement.