Hannah Berner: Signs It's Time To QUIT!

The Transition from Tennis to Comedy

Berner opens up about her experiences in tennis, where she felt immense pressure to succeed. Despite being a top player at the University of Wisconsin, she struggled with performance anxiety and the fear of failure. This anxiety was compounded by the expectations placed on her by others, leading her to feel like a "punching bag." However, when she stepped onto the stage for her first stand-up set, she experienced a calmness that she had never felt before. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her transition from tennis to comedy, where she found a space that allowed her to be herself without the weight of external expectations.

Embracing Change and Quitting

Throughout the conversation, Berner emphasizes the importance of recognizing when something no longer serves you. She describes herself as an "expert in quitting," explaining that she has left various careers and situations that didn't align with her true self. Berner encourages listeners to embrace the idea of quitting as a form of self-care and growth. She reflects on her own journey, noting that quitting tennis, despite the external perception of success, was a necessary step toward finding her true passion in comedy.

Berner's perspective on quitting is refreshing; she believes that it is not a sign of failure but rather an opportunity for rebirth and self-discovery. She shares how her experiences of being fired from various jobs ultimately led her to find her voice in comedy, illustrating that sometimes setbacks can pave the way for greater success.

The Role of Intuition

A significant part of the discussion revolves around the concept of intuition and how it manifests in our bodies. Berner explains that she has learned to listen to her body and recognize when something feels off. This awareness has helped her navigate both her personal and professional life, allowing her to make decisions that align with her true self. She encourages listeners to trust their instincts and not ignore the signs that indicate a situation is no longer right for them.

The Importance of Community

Berner also touches on the importance of community and finding supportive relationships. She shares her experiences of feeling isolated in competitive environments, such as tennis, where everyone was seen as a rival. In contrast, she has found a sense of belonging in the comedy community, where she can connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges. This sense of community has been instrumental in her personal growth and happiness.

Navigating Relationships

As the conversation shifts to relationships, Berner reflects on her journey of dating and finding her partner. She discusses the societal pressures women face regarding their careers and relationships, noting that many women feel the need to be overqualified before pursuing their dreams. Berner encourages women to take risks and not wait until they feel completely ready. She emphasizes that confidence often comes from taking action and pushing through discomfort.

Berner's relationship with her husband is a testament to the power of mutual respect and understanding. She highlights the importance of being with someone who supports your growth and challenges you to be your best self. Their dynamic is characterized by humor and playfulness, which Berner believes is essential for a healthy relationship.

The Impact of Jealousy

Throughout the episode, Berner discusses the concept of jealousy and how it can serve as a signal for what we truly desire. She recalls a moment from her past when she felt jealous of a cousin pursuing acting, which ultimately led her to confront her own aspirations. Berner encourages listeners to embrace their feelings of jealousy as a sign that they should explore their own passions and dreams.

The Power of Self-Discovery

Berner's journey is one of self-discovery, and she emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself. She encourages listeners to reflect on their childhood passions and interests, as these can often provide clues to their true calling. By reconnecting with what brings them joy, individuals can find the courage to pursue their dreams, regardless of societal expectations.