Mary

Self-compassion—the practice of being kind to yourself (rather than critical) during setbacks—was coined and advanced in the early 2000s by Dr. Kristin Neff, a researcher and psychologist. There are three components: self-kindness (treating yourself with care), common humanity (acknowledging that humans are imperfect), and mindfulness (non-judgmental awareness). Self-compassion shifts how we show up at work […]

Many professionals believe that overwork is just the way to get ahead. But true success requires balance—personally and professionally. It’s about maintaining harmony between internal and external goals.  Over investing in work and under investing in life has a cost. It’s one of the most difficult truths I’ve learned. Many professionals are deeply committed to

In organizations, connection refers to the strategies used to foster a sense of belonging, collaboration, and positive relationships among employees. Research teaches us that when employees feel connected, a cascade of good things happens. They are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their work. Strong connections facilitate better communication and teamwork, which leads

Adaptability—how well you can adjust to new conditions—is one of the most valuable professional skills in today’s workplace. It shows up in everyday situations, such as learning new tools or systems, navigating change, taking on new responsibilities, and facing challenges.  Workplaces evolve when business goals shift, new technology is introduced, and customer needs change. If

The cover story of this month’s Psychology Today welcomes spring by reporting on “The Friend Effect,” which explains the many ways social connection directly influences our personal development. Friendship has been shown to provide wide-ranging benefits—from improving emotional well-being and reducing stress to enhancing cognitive performance and boosting immune function.  Our social bonds provide a

Psychology Today recently reported on Tall Poppy Syndrome (TPS), a cultural phenomenon where high achievers are diminished by others if they are too successful or too visible. TPS disproportionately impacts People of Color, often intersecting with racism and systemic bias that deeply impacts career advancement, psychological safety, and mental health. TPS is not just about

Across my work with executives, I see recurring beliefs that quietly drain energy. These beliefs were formed long ago, yet they still shape how people work, relate, and make decisions. Common internal narratives sound like: If I slow down, I will fall behind. If I say no, I will disappoint someone. If I show fear,

The Quiet Voice of Imposter Syndrome Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon where high achievers doubt their talents and fear being discovered as a fraud—despite evidence to the contrary. It is a small voice that insists your accomplishments are accidental. It tells you that your success is fragile and that at any moment someone will discover

The Interior Life of a Leader Executives are envied for their stamina and celebrated for their output. They are praised publicly while hurting privately. Solitude comes with being the person everyone depends on. The higher the role, the more invisible the emotional cost becomes.  Emotional truth does not disappear simply because it is hidden. It