Leading the Way with Compassion

During the pandemic, it has been women who have led the way. Of the countries that had the best outcomes, New Zealand’s prime minister Jacinda Ardern is an example to us all. Not only did she do an incredible job at the outset but she has demonstrated that it is possible to lead AND be compassionate.

‘Too much focus on power and strength means leaders can lose sight of the need for kindness and empathy’ says Ardem. She believes people need authenticity and I couldn’t agree more.

As a Yoga therapist it is my job to show compassion and empathy, to offer support with kindness and to be authentic. I don’t honestly know how to be anything other than authentic! BUT I’m not always good at showing myself the same compassion.

According the compassion expert Kristin Neff, studies show that individuals who are self-compassionate experience fewer negative states like depression, anxiety, stress, shame, and negative body image—and these same people are more happy in their life, are more optimistic, and have better physical health.

So what’s stopping us from having greater self compassion?

I do believe that we should give ourselves a break! We are always doing our best after all. We could delegate more, teach our kids to help out, stop expecting perfection and take regular time look after our needs rather than always putting others first.

One of the best things though is to reach out to other women. We can empathise with one another and are most likely to understand. Even if we can’t be in the same room, we can offer kind words, advice or wisdom.

If you need to talk things over, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. We can go for a walk or have a conversation on Zoom. I’m here for you.

Stay well.

Anneliese