Rachel Roos Pokorney, LCSW R

Ever notice your anxiety is usually at its worst before the event?

That’s because your brain is predicting danger—not reading the future.

Once you get through it, your brain finally has new evidence that you were safe.

What’s one social situation your brain always overestimates? 👇

If you know, you know. Comment your job below and let’s see who sounds the most illegal! ⬇️🚨

Your brain isn’t broken. It’s doing what it’s designed to do. I explain why.

Ever feel like everyone noticed that awkward moment? Your brain may be falling for the spotlight effect—our tendency to overestimate how much other people notice us. The reality? Most people are focused on themselves, not replaying your grocery store encounter.

If your brain keeps replaying the same conversation, mistake, or “what if”, it’s usually trying to protect you - not torture you. The frustrating part is that more thinking doesn’t always mean more certainty. What’s your brain refusing to let go of today?

I’d be lying if I said happiness comes from one big thing. For me, it’s a collection of small moments: time with the people I love, movement, learning, meaningful work, laughter, and helping people discover they’re more capable than they think.

Turns out, happiness is often built in the ordinary. 🤍

Your inner critic isn’t always lying…

But it’s amazing how much quieter it gets when you ask it to show its evidence.