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When things don’t work out (and why that’s not the end)


Issue #193 | May 5th, 2026

Presented by Ecamm

Hey there,

Last week, I wrote about the power of partnerships and how finding the right people to work with can open up a world of opportunities. But let’s be honest: sometimes, things just don’t work out.

Maybe you picked the wrong partner. Maybe you launched a course that flopped. Maybe you hired an agency that overpromised and underdelivered. Or maybe you’re staring at a project that just isn’t working, and deep down you know it’s time to let it go.

Let’s get unstuck.

Inside My Live Video Workflow

Steal My Live Video Setup

In my latest video, I’m breaking down exactly how I use Ecamm to go live, record, and create content — step by step.

No fluff. No full product tour. Just the tools, settings, and workflow I actually use every week.

If you’ve ever wondered:

  • What setup you really need
  • How to simplify your process
  • Or how to finally stay consistent on video

This is for you.

The goal isn’t perfection; it’s removing friction so you can show up more often.

Watch the video, take what works, and start building your own workflow.

And if you want to try Ecamm for yourself, there’s a special offer waiting for you.

(Sponsored by Ecamm)

Interested in sponsoring Unstuck? Fill out a sponsorship inquiry.

Story of the Week

Why We Avoid Tough Decisions

Most of us avoid making hard calls because we fear conflict, disappointing others, or admitting we made a mistake.

We worry about burning bridges, hurting feelings, or looking foolish. So we cling to what’s not working, hoping it will magically get better.

But here’s the truth: avoiding tough decisions only drags out the pain and keeps you stuck. The sooner you face reality, the sooner you can move forward.

Mistakes Are Part of the Process

Every entrepreneur, creator, and leader has made a bad call. The difference between those who succeed and those who stay stuck is not whether they make mistakes; it’s how they respond to them.

Mistakes are not the end — they’re feedback. They’re an opportunity to learn, adjust, and improve.

How to Bounce Back from a Bad Decision

1. Own It

Acknowledge what happened. Don’t sugarcoat it or blame others. Take responsibility for your choice and the outcome.

2. Analyze the Situation

Ask yourself: What went wrong? Was it a lack of research, a rushed decision, or ignoring red flags? What can you learn for next time?

3. Communicate Clearly

If your decision affects others, be honest and direct. Whether it’s ending a partnership, letting someone go, or sunsetting a project, clear communication is key.

4. Make Lemonade

Look for ways to turn the experience into something positive. Maybe you gained new skills, built meaningful relationships, or learned what not to do. Sometimes, the lessons from a failed project lead to your next big win.

5. Move On

Once you’ve learned what you can, let it go. Don’t dwell on the mistake. Use the experience to make better decisions moving forward.

Your Challenge

This week, think about one tough decision you’ve been avoiding. Is there a partnership, project, or commitment that’s not working? What would it look like to face it head-on, learn from it, and move forward?

Remember, making tough calls is part of growth. Sometimes, the best opportunities are waiting on the other side of a difficult decision.

Here’s to learning, adjusting, and moving forward.

Quote of the Week

"Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently."

—Henry Ford

SPI News and Notes

Live streaming is one of the fastest ways to build real connection. That’s why I’m teaming up with Ecamm for a free, beginner-friendly webinar TOMORROW, May 6th. I'll walk you through how to get started without overcomplicating it.

It's time to go live! Our next challenge kicks off on May 11th, and this time it's all about live-streaming. No scripts, no perfection required — just show up, be real, and connect. Turn your casual followers into true superfans.

Cheers,

Pat Flynn

Co-founder, SPI Media

Dad Joke of the Week

Last night I became a cat…

Don’t ask meow.

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