Steering Clear of Compassion Collapse

Steering Clear of Compassion Collapse

We have a front row seat to all the suffering around the globe as our communication capacity grows and the world shrinks. Research shows that as suffering increases our compassionate feeling decreases. Is this the most helpful response? Compassionate leaders must recognize that we are at risk for compassion collapse and that leaning into our emotions is the way through. This will support our ability to respond compassionately, and tap into the regenerative nature of compassion to keep us resourced.

Book Review: "Running on Empty: Navigating the dangers of burnout at work," by Amy Bradley and Katherine Semler

Book Review: "Running on Empty: Navigating the dangers of burnout at work," by Amy Bradley and Katherine Semler

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.

Perfectionism Is Imperfect

Perfectionism Is Imperfect

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.

Compassionate Leadership in Times of Crisis

Compassionate Leadership in Times of Crisis

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.

Core Curiosities of Compassionate Leaders

Core Curiosities of Compassionate Leaders

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?

Building Culture for Change

Building Culture for Change

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.

Are You Being Kind to Yourself?

Are You Being Kind to Yourself?

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.

Embracing Paradox

Embracing Paradox

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.

Top Compassionate Leadership Books of 2022

Top Compassionate Leadership Books of 2022

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.

Can You Care Too Much?

Can You Care Too Much?

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.