Ever felt like your to-do list is a personal failure report? In this episode, Jessica shares a powerful mindset shift that transformed how she thinks about productivity. Inspired by AGILE project management and filtered through the lens of chronic illness, this episode explores how redefining “effort” can help you plan, pace, and thrive—without guilt. If you’re tired of pushing through and ready for a more sustainable way of working, this one's for you.

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How redefining productivity through effort (not just hours or output) can support your energy reality
• Four factors to assess effort: knowledge, experience, time, and energy
• How to apply AGILE’s sprint mindset to your chronic illness business
• Why traditional SOPs and systems often fail us—and how to personalize your workflow
• How Jessica used this method to plan and launch the CICEO podcast sustainably

✍️ Gentle Reflection Prompt

Jessica shares an "Effort Audit" exercise. For a few days, track your tasks using these four questions:

1. Do I already know how to do this?
2. Have I done this before?
3. How long will this realistically take, including recovery?
4. What’s the energy cost—was it draining or energizing?

Look for patterns. What might you shift next week based on this intel?

Remember you're not failing when you rest and recover. You're managing your energy like a strategist—and that’s a strength, not a shortcoming.

🔗 Mentioned Episodes

• Episode 5: Tired of Just Surviving? How to Build a Business That Lets You Thrive
• Episode 6: How to Know If You’re Making the Right Business Decision—Especially When You Have Chronic Illness
• Episode 7: You’re Not Broken: Why Your Body Is the Blueprint for a Sustainable Business

🛠️ Resources & Links

➡️ Follow my journey on YouTube for behind-the-scenes insights. (@chronicillnessceo) ➡️ Need personalized support? Book a Sustainable CEO Strategy Day and let’s design a business that works with your body, not against it. ➡️ Learn more about the Sustainable Success Framework at ChronicIllnessCEO.com to start building your energy-conscious business today.

And if this message resonates with you, please leave a rating and review—it helps other entrepreneurs with chronic illness find this podcast and join our cozy community.

📬 Stay Cozy & Connected

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Wishing you a gentle day, Jessica