The Expectation Gap: Inner Critics, and Starting the New Year with Curiosity (Part 1 with Steve Cuss)

In the first part of this two-part conversation, Alan Briggs sits down with Steve Cuss, author of The Expectation Gap, to explore the challenges of managing expectations, staying human-sized in overwhelming spaces, and starting the year with curiosity instead of pressure.

Steve shares personal stories about imposter syndrome, the power of micro-habits, and practical tools to help you "stub your toe" on God's love throughout your day. This episode is packed with insight for leaders, parents, and anyone feeling the weight of expectations as the year begins.

• Why New Year’s resolutions often miss the mark and how to set achievable goals.


• The concept of staying “human-sized” in rooms that feel too big.


• Practical ways to manage the inner critic and reconnect with God’s love.


• Steve’s reflections on his own predictable patterns and how to break free.

Resources Mentioned:

• Steve Cuss’s book: The Expectation Gap


• Demystifying Sabbaticals Webinar - January 29th (Register now!)


• Follow us on YouTube for more practical content every single week.

Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2, where Steve dives deeper into recognizing reactivity, breaking predictable patterns, and sharing his favorite tools for lasting change.