271: Mid-Year Slump? Here's How Top Performers Reset

In this episode of Life of And, Tiffany sits down with sales strategist and leadership coach Brian Kavicky to unpack what it takes to lead through uncertainty — without making excuses.

Brian and Tiffany get honest about the mental gymnastics we do as leaders to justify missed goals, slow quarters, and underperformance. You’ll hear why mid-year is when most of us double down on bad plans — and how to stop that cycle before it costs you momentum.

Together, they explore a mindset shift that turns excuses into action, and how to separate business decisions from personal emotions so you can lead with both clarity and compassion.

If you’re stuck in a tough market — or just stuck in your own head — this episode will help you reset, replan, and move forward with intention.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why leaders often fall into excuse-making mid-year — and how to spot it
• The difference between changing your plan vs. changing your goal
• A four-question belief test to unlock action when you feel stuck

Real-Life Mindset Tools: 

• Ask “What if the opposite were true?” to challenge stuck thinking
• Practice being a scientist, not a savior, in seasons of change
• Don’t let the emotional weight of leadership delay the hard calls
• Reframe the second half of the year as a prep for next year’s wins

Timestamps:
(00:27) Intro

(01:36) Why mid-year can feel like a leadership crisis

(03:52) Common excuses leaders believe (and why they’re dangerous)

(05:12) When market changes become a crutch

(07:23) The power of belief and responsibility

(09:16) How excuses cascade through organizations

(13:05) When to pivot, reset goals, or cut your losses

(24:05) Making business decisions with compassion

(25:49) Three questions to call out your own excuses

Check out the apps and sponsor of this episode:

• Book time with Brian Kavicky: This episode is sponsored by Lushin. As part of our ongoing content partnership, Brian Kavicky joins the podcast monthly to share leadership and sales insights. No compensation is received for referrals.
• Created in partnership with Share Your Genius
• Download the Summer Sanity Toolbox: Start with priorities. Add structure. Make space for joy. Because summer is yours too.