12 Ways You’re Making Life Harder (And How to Make It Easier Today

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I catch myself making life harder than it needs to be, and I don’t even realize I’m doing it. In this episode, I walk through some very real, everyday habits that quietly add stress, overwhelm, and heaviness to our lives. The good news? We can change them. I’ll show you simple, practical shifts, grounded in truth, that help you move from overthinking to trusting, from striving to peace. If you’re feeling tired, stuck, or stretched thin, this conversation will help you breathe a little easier and take your next step forward.

And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode!

Xo,

Donna

Key Takeaways

00:00:12 – Podcast Purpose: Encouragement for Everyday Faith

00:02:50 – Stop Overthinking and Start Trusting God

00:04:22 – Don’t Wait: Obedience Builds Confidence

00:06:40 – Comparison Is a Distraction from Your Calling

00:19:02 – Making Time for God Changes Everything

What We Talk About

• The hidden habits that quietly make life harder
• Why overthinking feels productive but isn’t
• The difference between waiting and obeying
• How avoiding conversations creates mental clutter
• Why comparison is more harmful than we think
• The cost of people-pleasing and overcommitting
• Letting go of control and embracing trust
• The importance of basic rhythms like sleep and rest
• Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness
• How time with God changes everything

Signature Teaching / Framework

11 Ways We Make Life Harder (and the Better Way Forward)

1. Overthinking → Trust
2. Waiting → Obeying
3. Avoiding → Speaking Truth in Love
4. Comparing → Staying Focused
5. Saying Yes → Setting Boundaries
6. Controlling → Releasing
7. Ignoring Basics → Caring for Yourself
8. Taking Things Personally → Extending Grace
9. All-or-Nothing Thinking → Taking Imperfect Action
10. Seeking Validation → Standing Secure
11. Not Slowing Down / Not Asking for Help
12. Not Spending Time with God → Living Connected

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my latest book -

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith.

Let’s Connect:

Instagram: @donnaajones

Website: www.donnajones.org

Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/

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