When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned

Why changing direction isn’t failure—it’s growth.

I used to believe that if you created a clear vision, worked hard enough, and trusted the process, things would naturally fall into place. Moving to the South of France felt like proof of that. It was my dream for so long—slow mornings with matcha and the sea just steps away, weekends wandering through colorful markets, and finally learning some French.

And while all of that happened, something else happened too: life reminded me that plans don’t always equal fulfillment.

At first, I wanted to resist that realization. How could something I had wanted for so long not feel like enough once I had it? But over time, I realized the answer was simple—my goals had shifted.

Right now, two things matter most to me:

• Finding my person

• Building my career

And the truth is, the South of France doesn’t feel like the place for either of those things right now. It gave me beauty, slowness, and perspective, but it also made me realize what I value at this stage in my life. That clarity doesn’t make the dream a failure—it just means it served its purpose and it’s okay to move forward.

I’m in New York City now, and the energy here feels different. It’s fast, full of opportunity, and alive in a way that matches the season I’m in. Being here is a reminder that it’s okay to pivot, even when it feels like you’re walking away from a plan you once held so tightly.

If life isn’t going as planned for you, I hope this reminds you of something: changing direction isn’t failure, it’s growth. It means you’re paying attention to what your life is asking of you now, not just what you thought you wanted in the past.

Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is let go of the blueprint you created for yourself. Because the truth is, you can’t always plan timing, people, or opportunities. But you can keep choosing what feels aligned today.

For me, that answer is here in New York.

✨ If you’re interested in renting my apartment in the South of France, I still have it until March. Send me a message if you’d like the details.

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🌿 Soft CEO Favorites of the Week

Podcast I’m Loving: Big Sean on Jay Shetty Podcast – A powerful reminder that anyone can create the life they want when they focus on what they can control and align with purpose.

Wellness Product I’m Using: Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic – My go-to probiotic for gut health and energy. It helps me feel more grounded and balanced, especially while traveling.

Everyday Essential: LOLA Organic Tampons – A cleaner, more sustainable swap for something we all use. BPA-free, simple, and reliable.

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For You

Think about one area of your life where the plan didn’t go the way you imagined. Instead of seeing it as failure, what clarity did it give you? What new direction is it pointing you toward now?

xo,

Jhánneu