Intermission: How to Make the Most Out of a Messy Middle

“When something stops being fun, I advocate that you stop doing it. It’s an adage I live by, and I tell my kids the same,” says Dr. Lara Salyer. In this episode, she dives into the concept of “intermission”—those often challenging middle phases in life and career—and how to navigate them with courage and intention. Drawing from her own experience of transitioning from dyeing her hair teal to buzzing it off, Dr. Salyer demonstrates how embracing change can be a powerful act of bravery.

 

What role do intermissions play in your life? Dr. Salyer believes they’re essential for reflection, growth, and redefining your path, whether they’re planned or unexpected. She shares five key strategies for making the most of these periods. First, she encourages leading with curiosity—journaling to uncover the lessons within your current challenges. Second, she stresses the importance of owning your intermission by being open about it, fostering understanding and patience from others.

 

Do you feel pressured to have everything figured out? Dr. Salyer’s third tip is to resist this urge and instead embrace uncertainty, allowing curiosity to guide your next steps. Fourth, she suggests inviting collaborators into your journey, drawing on their insights while staying true to your own decision-making. Lastly, she talks about the opportunity to realign your culture and values during these times, making sure they reflect your new goals and passions.

 

By connecting these intermissions to flow neuroscience, Dr. Salyer illustrates how they are crucial for tapping into creativity and flourishing. She reminds us that embracing the messiness and uncertainty of these periods can lead to profound personal and professional transformations. Her message is simple but powerful: be brave in the face of change, and don’t be afraid to color outside the lines for a more fulfilling and expressive life.

 

Quotes

• “Intermission is necessary. In fact, it is an important part of every story. If we're looking at intermission, we can feel uncomfortable. It is messy and discombobulated.” (07:27 | Dr. Lara Salyer)
• “If you are at an impasse or in a messy time of life, these tips will help you, no matter if it’s a work or life issue, as you paint that work-life masterpiece. The first tip is to lead with curiosity. Don’t be ashamed of an intermission, even if it’s unplanned… You can use this as an opportunity for curiosity.” (07:48 | Dr. Lara Salyer) 
• “Intermission is a beautiful gift. It’s a blessing so that you can clearly define your story and what matters for you moving forward. Embrace the pause, as messy as it is.” (14:33 | Dr. Lara Salyer)

 

Links

Use coupon code PODCAST for free Brainstorming session https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery

 

Connect with Lara: 

Website: https://drlarasalyer.com

The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst

Instagram: @drlarasalyer

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer

Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer

TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor

 

 

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm