In a year of research on the nature of work and mid-career evolution, one word keeps surfacing: compassion.
Compassion for others, yes. But more importantly, self-compassion.
It's essential for sustained performance at work, and essential for navigating the messy middle of mid-career.
This week’s guest reinforces that idea and expands our understanding with both science and practical tools we can put to use.
Heather Doyle Fraser is a publisher, author, entrepreneur, and coach who leads the Compassionate Mind Collaborative.
In our conversation, Heather explains the physiology of self-compassion and the “threat, drive, soothe” emotional regulation system that shape our daily experience:
Threat – the fears of not being enough, of failing, of being judged.
Drive – the fuel, values, and purpose that makes us want to do/create something
Soothe – the comfort and self-care we can introduce into the equation
Heather shows how recognizing and balancing these forces supports both career growth and creativity.
She also shares tactical tools for creative output, from creating enough time, to shaping our physical environment, to cultivating a cognitive landscape where compassion leads instead of the critic.
We also dig into
Throughout our conversation the reminder is simple but profound: even the most seasoned leaders and creators wrestle with fear and doubt. What carries them forward is practice and support.
Let’s keep making career more of a team sport.
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Connect with Heather on LinkedIn
Visit her website to learn more about how to work with her in a one-on-one or group setting
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Host: Brady Sadler
Let's connect on LinkedIn
Show Art: Kyle Mosher
