The Terrible Fork Phase|Awkward Beginnings Are How Progress Actually Works

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Ever felt like you’re making a change, but instead of feeling accomplished, you just feel… awkward? 

Well, then welcome. You’ve landed in your very own "terrible fork phase".  

It’s a funny way to define those moments when progress is slow and our initial efforts feel clumsy or underwhelming. But… however imperfect our actions, they represent important progress toward meaningful change. 

These flimsy forked phases are actually very necessary for growth.

Because even small moves count as progress. And consistent progress IS change.

This week, Karlee explores the concept of the "terrible fork phase" - a metaphorical stage of growth (based on a real fork) where progress feels awkward, imperfect, and potentially ineffective, but is nonetheless a step forward when you’re uncertain about what to do next. 

In this episode, we’re calling out those clunky, frustrating, not-quite-right-yet moments of growth and reframing them for what they really are—proof that you’re making progress. You’ll hear real-life stories of leaders and boundary-setters navigating their own terrible fork moments (think: tiny, useless branded blankets and a first-time “no” that came with a side of panic).  Plus, we’ll talk about why small, imperfect steps always beat waiting for perfection, and how self-compassion can help you stick with it even when it feels like a disaster.

Because the truth? If it feels a little messy, you’re probably doing it right.

If you’re ready to lean into the next step, even if it’s not the perfect one, and create momentum on the path to change, then this episode is for you. 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The concept of the “Terrible Fork Phase” (0:37)
• Relatable examples of fork phases (5:26)
• A delegation disaster turned learning moment (9:43)
• How whispers of courage can become winds of change (13:01)
• A prompt to inspire a little movement (14:55)

People Mentioned in this Episode:

Mary Anne Radmacher

Darnell Lamont Walker

Brendon Burchard

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Messy and Magnificent is produced by the folx at Ginni Media.