70: Reaction to Response: The Space That Changes Everything

🔥 What if one moment—one pause—could change everything?

In this raw and powerful solo episode, John Merkus, your energising and insightful host, opens up about a deeply personal moment that brought him to a standstill. A moment of doubt. A piece of feedback that hit hard. And a hidden belief that had been quietly shaping his life for decades.

What follows is not just a story—it’s a breakthrough.

🎧 This episode is for you if you've ever wondered: “Is it ever going to happen for me?” It’s for anyone who’s felt the sting of rejection, the weight of over-efforting, or the emotional spiral triggered by a single sentence.

💥 In this episode, John shares:

• 🧠 The truth about emotional triggers—and why your first reaction isn’t the full story

• ⏸️ The life-changing concept of "The Gap"—the space between reaction and response

• 💬 The three limiting beliefs that held him back for years (and how to identify your own)

• 🪞 How coaching became the mirror that helped him rewrite his story

• 💡 A powerful new affirmation to rewire your mindset and step into your worth

• 🧘‍♂️ The simple daily act of self-care he’s now committed to—and why your body might be holding on to more than you realise

🧭 Why it matters:

This is more than just mindset talk. It’s about reclaiming your power in the exact moment life tries to take it. It’s about slowing down just long enough to choose differently—and rewriting the stories that no longer serve you.

🔔 Listen now if you’re ready to:

✅ Break free from old patterns ✅ Reconnect with your inner strength ✅ Feel seen, heard, and supported ✅ Learn how to catch the thought before it creates the spiral

❤️ A note from John:

“This episode took something to record. But I believe there’s someone out there who needs to hear it. Maybe it’s you. If you’ve ever felt not enough, not wanted, or just different—I see you. And this one’s for you.”

🔗 Links & Mentions:

• Connect with John: www.johnmerkus.com

• Interested in coaching with Karina Murphy? www.karinamurphy.com.au

🎧 Tap play now and give yourself the gift of the gap—because that space might just be where your next breakthrough lives.

🌀 Keep thriving. You are wanted, you do belong, and you are enough.

🎧 Listen now and start your own Daily Wins List today. 💬 Loved it? Share your favourite insight with us and tag @johnmerkus on socials! 🌱 Want more? Follow Rise and Thrive: Conversations for Greatness for weekly boosts of optimism, growth, and real-life transformation.

💬 Loved it? Here's What You Can Do Next:

✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise ⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify 📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content 💌 Join the mailing list to get exclusive inspiration and free resources: www.johnmerkus.com

🙏 About Your Host: John Merkus

John is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and always filled with golden nuggets of wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest—and this episode is no exception.

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🎧 Press play, get inspired, and keep thriving. Greatness is one action away. 💬 Join the Conversation! What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you? Share it on social media with: #RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart

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