Burnout is an unsettling and an unsettled topic. Just released in the US, Running on Empty: Navigating the dangers of burnout at work, by Amy Bradley and Katherine Semler shows what we do know about burnout: the experience is brutal. Using a unique individual narrative approach, Running on Empty brings a new perspective to addressing the challenges of burnout.

Aiming for perfect is a noble goal. The trouble is that perfection is not really possible, and we often ignore perfectionism's downright harmful effects. Tapping into our ambitions in a healthy way without going over the edge is possible. It requires an understanding of perfectionism itself, a recognition of our connection to others, and a willingness to set boundaries and limits.

We are pleased to share the perspectives of our colleague Nida Balamur, a participant in the current Compassionate Leadership Certification Program cohort, reporting from the front lines of the 2023 Turkish earthquakes. We are grateful for her heartfelt perspectives on empathy and compassion during this devastating time.

This week, two new cohorts began their eight-week journey in our Compassionate Leadership Certification Training. We asked these incoming leaders from around the world about their top curiosities pertaining to compassionate leadership. Are your curiosities similar to theirs?

The dizzying pace of change today is accompanied by growing uncertainty. We humans are uncomfortable with uncertainty and change. How can compassionate leaders break through resistance to change? By keeping humans at the center, creating learning culture, leading collaboratively, and practicing courageous compassion.

Does your inner voice ever say things to yourself that you would never say to others? Do you find it hard to forgive yourself for mistakes or bounce back after a setback? We can all strengthen our capacity for self-kindness by recognizing its gifts, understanding our resistance to it, and practicing to become the leader that creates a culture of safety and caring.

People who are able to hold the tension between two conflicting demands, without feeling forced to choose between the two, can be said to have a paradox mindset. Those who utilize such a mindset have been shown to exhibit greater levels of creativity, adaptability, and productivity. But doing this is not easy. Here we examine three fundamental practices of compassionate leadership to help you target your development in ways that support your capacity to embrace paradox.

Given the existential threats we face, this year’s selections embody relevant compassionate leadership themes: start from a grounded place, be aware of what truly is, see the whole picture to change the system, embrace systemic complexities and paradox, and be courageous in action. We hope the wisdom in these books will contribute meaningfully to your compassionate leadership journey.

As a compassionate person and a compassionate leader, caring is a core value that motivates us and shapes our purpose. Yet when our caring impulses exceed our caring capacity, we burn out. Here are strategies to make sure that we fulfill our caring motivations in the most beneficial way.

Throughout history, the action of courageous individuals has led humanity through challenging moments into a period of greater flourishing. How do compassionate leaders respond in the face of challenge without disengaging, burning out or becoming overwhelmed? We all want to play our part, as far as we can. Here are some ways to help move into action and make a positive contribution.