As a leader, you likely extend empathy to your team, offering support and understanding when they face challenges. But how often do you extend that same empathy to yourself?
Self-empathy is a game-changing leadership skill. It’s not about lowering your standards or making excuses—it’s about offering yourself the same grace and compassion you show others. By practicing self-empathy, you create a foundation of resilience, clarity, and confidence that strengthens not only your leadership but every area of your life.
Why Self-Empathy is Essential
Leaders often hold themselves to higher standards, which can lead to self-criticism, burnout, or feeling stuck in perfectionism. Practicing self-empathy helps you:
- Build Resilience: By acknowledging your feelings and challenges, you create space to recover and grow.
- Clarify Priorities: Self-empathy allows you to focus on what truly matters, rather than getting lost in unrealistic expectations.
- Model Healthy Leadership: When you show yourself compassion, you inspire your team to do the same, fostering a culture of authenticity and balance.
How to Practice Self-Empathy
Here are three ways to start practicing self-empathy today:
- Pause to Check In: Ask yourself, “How am I feeling right now?” and acknowledge your emotions without judgment.
- Speak to Yourself Kindly: Imagine what you’d say to a close friend in the same situation, and offer those words to yourself.
- Set Boundaries for Growth: Say no to unnecessary demands and yes to the practices and habits that support your well-being.
Why It’s a Leadership Skill
Self-empathy doesn’t just make you feel better—it makes you a better leader. By understanding and addressing your own needs, you become more attuned to the needs of others. You lead with authenticity, make clearer decisions, and model the balance necessary for sustainable success.
Take the First Step Toward Self-Empathy
Understanding what holds you back from practicing self-empathy is the key to making a lasting change. Negative thought patterns, or “Saboteurs,” often undermine our ability to show ourselves compassion.
Here’s How to Start:
- Take the Free Saboteur Assessment: Discover the mental habits that may be preventing you from practicing self-empathy. Take the Assessment Now
- Explore Your Results: Schedule a complimentary Saboteur Debrief Session to dive into your results and identify actionable steps for growth. Book Your Session Here
- Consider Coaching Support: Ready for deeper transformation? Let’s discuss how coaching can help you lead with resilience and clarity. Schedule a Complimentary Coaching Consultation
Lead with Compassion, Starting with Yourself
Empathy for yourself is the foundation for thriving in leadership and life. By practicing self-empathy, you’ll gain the resilience and clarity to inspire others while showing up as your most authentic self. Start your journey today and see the difference it makes for you and those you lead.
Amanda Hahn is a Masters-trained Organization Development professional, an ICF ACC credentialed coach, a Positive Intelligence Certified Coach, and a Certified Leadership Coach. As an Adjunct Professor and Coaching Instructor at Pittsburg State University and Symbiosis Coaching, she brings together a deep commitment to leadership, teaching, and coaching. Through her work, she inspires curiosity, fosters purposeful growth, and empowers future leaders to make a lasting impact.
