Should Happens: How Language Shapes Our Work and Creates Self-Sabotage
Episode Title: Should Happens: How Language Shapes Our Work and Creates Self-SabotageEpisode Number: 9Host: Erin MeridethWebsite: unlearningwork.com
Episode Summary
In this episode of Unlearning Work, host Erin Merideth breaks down how one simple word—“should”—shapes our work, limits our leadership, and sabotages our side hustles.
Drawing on behavioral science and client stories, Erin explores how “should” statements often mask fear, judgment, or unmet needs. Whether you're saying “They should know better” at work or “I should be further along” in your business, the language we use creates the pressure we feel—and the patterns we repeat.
This episode is your guide to spotting those “should” traps and replacing them with clarity, compassion, and aligned action.
Key Topics Covered
✅ What “Should” Really MeansThe psychology behind the word and how it reflects hidden beliefs, expectations, and unspoken rulebooks
✅ The Four Types of “Shoulds”


Moral & Ethical Judgment


Cultural or Generational Norms


Emotional Needs in Disguise


Personal Thinking & Projection


✅ Why “Should” Shows Up Differently at Work vs. In Your Side HustleHow workplace structure and team dynamics shape “should” languageWhy entrepreneurial spaces trigger different forms of self-pressure
✅ Behavioral Science InsightsHow “should” activates the brain’s threat responseWhy vague, internalized expectations lead to avoidance, burnout, or overwork
✅ Real Client ExamplesFrom “I should be charging more” to “They should just figure it out”—what’s really going on beneath the surface
✅ Reframes that WorkPractical shifts to turn judgment into clarity, and shame into strategic action
✅ Leadership Self-Check FrameworkHow to spot hidden “shoulds” in your team culture and communication—and what to say instead
Episode Takeaways
🔹 “Should” language creates invisible pressure—and often unrealistic expectations🔹 Self-awareness is the first step to shifting your inner dialogue🔹 Clear, values-aligned language fuels better leadership and less self-sabotage🔹 You don’t have to drop all your “shoulds”—just start noticing and reframing them
Final Thought
Most of the time, no one agreed to the rulebook you’re following.Pause. Ask. Reframe. You get to choose what story shapes your next step.
 
Join the Conversation!
🎯 Ready to let go of your “shoulds”? Join the Unlearning Work Community for our May Challenge: Stop ‘Shoulding’ and Start Leading Clearly.
💬 Share your reflections with us on social media or in the Unlearning Work Community.🔗 Visit unlearningwork.com to dive deeper into tools and resources that support effective feedback.
 
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