Self Compassion: The Foundation of a Non-Anxious Presence
I often say that self‑regulation is the key to self‑differentiation. When we can regulate our automatic responses in the moment, we’re far more capable of choosing how we want to show up—taking responsibility for ourselves while staying connected to others. But there’s another ingredient that makes this possible, and it’s one we don’t talk […]
Podcast Episode 364: Differentiation at the Edge: Why Your Growth Depends on the Hardest Moments
Edge cases don’t happen often, but they are predictable. This episode unpacks what that looks like and offers five steps to help you grow as a non-anxious presence. Show Notes: Why the Best Communicators Prepare for the Edge Cases – Matt Norman Become a Patron for as little as $5/month. Subscribe to my weekly Two for […]
The Hidden Cost of Inauthenticity: How Staying True to Yourself Prevents Burnout
We’ve all done it. We nod along in meetings, laugh at jokes that aren’t funny, or pretend to agree just to keep the peace. It feels harmless—just part of being a team player. But research suggests something deeper is happening beneath the surface. When we act in ways that don’t align with who we […]
Podcast Episode 362: Leadership through Self-Differentiation (Part 4 of 4) – Self-Regulation and Integrity in the Moment of Choice (Rebroadcast)
Self-differentiation is acting in accordance with your goals and values, especially in anxious moments. This episode shows you how, as well as what to do when you don’t. Show Notes: Anxious Church, Anxious People: How to Lead Change in an Age of Anxiety If You Met My Family, You’d Understand: A Family Systems Primer Become […]
How to Handle Annoying Family Members During the Holidays
The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and connection, but let’s be honest—family gatherings can also bring stress. We often find ourselves reacting to old patterns with siblings, parents, or extended relatives in ways we’d never tolerate at work. An article in Fast Company reminded me that while we use professional […]
Podcast Episode 361: Leadership through Self-Differentiation (Part 3 of 4) – The Problem with Seriousness and Reactivity (Rebroadcast)
The emotional intensity that comes from being super-serious can turn a challenge into a problem. Likewise, when we react automatically to the anxiety of others, it can make a bad situation worse. This episode digs into why this is the case and what you can do about it. Show Notes: Anxious Church, Anxious People: How […]
From Fight or Flight to Connection: Five Steps to Self‑Regulation
Self‑regulation is the ability to manage your own anxiety when tensions rise. It’s not about suppressing feelings or pretending everything is fine—it’s about staying grounded enough to respond in a healthy, intentional way. This Harvard Business Review article, How to Keep Your Cool in High Stress Situations, lays out five practical steps rooted in […]
Podcast Episode 360: Leadership through Self-Differentiation – Part 2 of 4 – Emotional Process, Sabotage, Pain & Responsibility (Rebroadcast)
Recognizing emotional process will not only help you avoid getting stuck, it will enable you to persist through the inevitable sabotage that comes when you are leading change. Show Notes: Anxious Church, Anxious People: How to Lead Change in an Age of Anxiety If You Met My Family, You’d Understand: A Family Systems Primer Become […]
Podcast Episode 359: Leadership through Self-Differentiation – Part 1 of 4 – Triangles (Rebroadcast)
The key to effective leadership is the ability to remain a non-anxious presence. Understanding triangles, as well as how to manage them, makes this easier. Show Notes: Anxious Church, Anxious People: How to Lead Change in an Age of Anxiety If You Met My Family, You’d Understand: A Family Systems Primer Become a Patron for […]