Don't Shrink to Fit: Empowering and inspiring women one story at a time.
Don’t Shrink to Fit: The Podcast for women who refuse to play small.
Empowering conversations. Inspiring transformations. Limitless possibilities.
Are you ready to step into your power, break free from limitations, and create the life of abundance and joy you’ve always wanted? Don’t Shrink to Fit is more than a podcast—it’s a movement.
Hosted by Claudia Noriega-Bernstein, an abundance coach, author, and speaker, Don't Shrink to Fit isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. Each episode brings you powerful insights from incredible experts who share strategies and mindset shifts to help you break through limitations and step into your fullest potential. You’ll also hear from courageous, driven women who have faced life’s toughest challenges and transformed them into opportunities.
Every episode is an invitation to grow, heal, and evolve as we navigate the ups and downs of life together.
Don't Shrink to Fit: Empowering and inspiring women one story at a time.
When Assumptions Hurt: A Personal Story About Expectations, Reactions & Reclaiming Your Power with Claudia Noriega-Bernstein
In this deeply personal and reflective episode of Don’t Shrink to Fit, Claudia Noriega-Bernstein shares a vulnerable moment that many of us can relate to—a heartfelt gesture misunderstood, and the emotional unraveling that followed.
While planning a dream family trip to Tuscany, I envisioned a beautiful photoshoot with my daughters, complete with dresses and joyful memories but when the idea wasn’t received with the enthusiasm I expected, I was met with disappointment, hurt, and a sense of rejection.
This moment led me to unpack a powerful truth: the difference between expectations and assumptions and how both can quietly shape our experiences, reactions, and relationships.
In this episode, you’ll explore:
- Why assumptions often hurt more than we expect
- The subtle (but important) difference between assuming and expecting
- How we unconsciously create stories that distort reality
- Why emotional reactions are normal—and how awareness becomes the gateway to healing
- How to shift from taking things personally to reclaiming your power and self-worth
It reminds us that silence isn’t always rejection, and someone else’s reaction doesn’t define our value. With vulnerability, wisdom, and compassion, I invites you to pause, reflect, and examine the invisible forces that might be influencing how you show up in your life.
✨ If this episode speaks to your heart, please like it, share it, and consider who else might need to hear this today. Your support helps more women discover this space of growth and truth.
🎧 Plus, if you want to dive deeper into healing and self-awareness, grab Claudia’s book Brighter Days on Kindle for just $0.99—and receive her brand-new workbook “Unstuck” as a free gift. Don't forget to send me a screen-shot of your purcahse to get the Workbook.
🧡 Thank you for being here. We rise when we lift each other.
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Claudia@claudiaNoriegaBernstein.com - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training.
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Here is your link for your FREE Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Abundance Workbook:
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Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put yourself back on the priority list—this membership is designed to support your growth, your healing, and your radiance fr...