Caterpillar or Butterfly?

You checked all the boxes. 

You did what you were “supposed” to do.

And then something broke — stopped working — or you realized it hasn’t been working for a while. 

You’re at a crossroads - a now what moment - and it may be a little scary. 

You thought you followed the “path of certainty” and it seems to have led you astray. You may even feel betrayed by a person, a job, or just life. 

And it makes sense. You have done it all right. You were a “good girl” or a “good boy” like you were supposed to be. Maybe you are left wondering “What happened? What’s it all for?” 

Well, I have a secret for you. 

This isn’t the end of the movie. 

This moment, this crossroads, is where the journey really begins. 

It may feel scary, lonely, uncertain. You may be feeling sorry for yourself, doubting your choices, regretting your past… 

I say — NO MORE!

Yes, you can feel sad, mad, frustrated… your feelings are totally valid. 

AND this is also your moment. 

I repeat… this is YOUR MOMENT. 

The crossroads is an opportunity to begin your transformational journey.

I haven’t ever talked to a butterfly, but I imagine that if they could talk they would say the metamorphosis (aka the GOO part) was really UNCOMFORTABLE.

Going from a caterpillar to a butterfly requires the courage to be messy and it isn’t always pretty, but you don’t have to do it alone. 

If you want to walk this path to a life that is truly authentic, peaceful, and fulfilling - truly aligned with your purpose for being here—

Then I invite you to join me, or at the very least jump on the phone with me to see what all the fuss is about. 

30~ minutes. You - me - truth - laughter - and maybe some tears, a plan, and a choice — to walk through it OR not. 

The choice is yours. Red pill or blue pill. 

Caterpillar or butterfly.

Curious? Schedule a call with me

It is my pleasure to witness you. 

Laura Jack
Grief & Gratitude This Holiday Season

Do you find yourself saying, I should be grateful; other people have it worse than I do? 

The challenge with that line of thinking is that it diminishes your experience and forces you to justify your feelings of sadness, disappointment, frustration, or even heartache. What no one else is telling you is that grief comes before gratitude. But before I tell you why, you must know that grief is not just death… not just the sad, terrible feelings.

According to the Grief Recovery Institute, “Grief is the conflicting feelings that come at the end of or change in a familiar pattern of behavior.” Thus, all change, exciting and challenging, can be grieving experiences because we are saying goodbye to what was. It also includes a loss of hopes, dreams, and expectations. Maybe you thought life would be different at this point… and you don’t love the way things are.

Grief must come before gratitude because if you ignore your true feelings and hide behind a mask of “Everything’s fine”, or “I should feel happy or grateful,” you can never truly be happy.

Why? Because that isn’t life. Life is full of twists and turns... So if you diminish your sadness, frustration, and disappointment, and even deep heartache, it prevents you from feeling deep joy, gratitude, and connection in your life.

Don’t get me wrong, gratitude is amazing! You just have to start by acknowledging your story, your truth, your experiences... in other words your grief. Otherwise, gratitude is just a box you check on your to do list. And I’m also not asking you to spend hours, weeks, months, or years… dressed in black and mourning…

I am just telling you that when you are being authentic, feeling your feelings, and acknowledging your grief, you will begin to have compassion for yourself… which allows you to have compassion for others in your life. Your heart will open to forgiveness and loving communication.

You may be thinking, “I am already loving and compassionate, and I already show others my care (and I believe you…) AND, I want to ask you this… Are you ALWAYS  kind and compassionate toward yourself? If the answer is no, then I guarantee you there is room to grow in your compassion for others… because compassion starts with self.

When you understand your story, your joy and your pain, you realize that the biggest lessons in life are learned from the greatest challenges you face. When you don’t put grief before gratitude, when you don’t honor the challenges and truth of real life, when you feel shame and diminish your feelings…Deep connection, authentic love, and abundance will be elusive. You will stay stuck in the feelings you are avoiding... like fear, resentment, disappointment, frustration and anger, and they will get louder until you pay attention.

Understanding and having gratitude for you like experience is key to moving forward in a whole new way. SO just like self-care, you must start with compassion for yourself and your story. We all deserve love and we can only receive as much love from others as we can give ourselves. 

So summing up, living life fully and experiencing deep gratitude is possible, AND the way to do this is simply by allowing yourself to feel all of your feelings and honor your story as it is as important and unique as you are.

Would you love to experience authentic happiness and success? Watch my brand new mini-masterclass to find out how to begin.

Laura Jack
My Theory On Complaining: Unveiling the brag buddies solution

Ever wondered why some folks seem to be in perpetual complaint mode? Life's challenges are aplenty, that's for sure.

But here's the kicker—complaining has become a toxic default, an assumed norm. My theory? We grumble because it's far more acceptable than celebrating.

Think about it. From a young age, we're taught not to brag. "No one likes a bragger," they say. The downside? It discourages us from sharing our wins.

So, what's the remedy? Enter "Brag Buddies," a concept born out of my family routine and corporate workshops. It's a fantastic framework for people to share what they want to celebrate without the nagging guilt of "bragging."

People often keep their wins to themselves, fearing jealousy, judgment, or making others feel bad. Understandable, yet it prevents us from celebrating one another, leading to disappointment and a sense of being unacknowledged.

After losing my original Brag Buddy, my mom, in 2008, I created Brag Buddies. It might feel a bit awkward initially, but I invite you to give it a shot.

If you've ever thought, "No one notices all I do," or just fancy trying something fun, how about playing Brag Buddies today?

Here's the deal: Think of at least one thing you want acknowledgment for. Say, "I want to be acknowledged for __________." Their response? "YOU ROCK" or a simple "Thank you for sharing." Then switch and repeat.

My husband and I make this a daily ritual. "Can I share all the things I did today?" he'll ask. "Absolutely!" I'll reply. After he lists his accomplishments, I'll say, "That's awesome. Thank you so much." Then it's my turn.

We play it with our kids, with friends, and even in corporate workshops.

In a world filled with complaints, Brag Buddies creates a safe space to share wins, shifting the conversation from what's wrong to what's right.

Need a safe place to brag? Join The Compassion Collective —-> our unconditional love line —> by visiting here.

Laura Jack
The Problem With Self-Love

This past weekend I had the honor to speak and participate in a seminar entitled Loving Yourself Enough in Baton Rouge, LA.

The heart of what I shared was centered on the transformative power of shifting our internal dialogue from criticism to kindness.
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While the idea of self-love has gained much attention in the last couple years, the missing link often lies in the practical application. Many express the desire to love themselves but grapple with the "how." The journey can be challenging as it involves unraveling years of internal programming and, at times, generational patterns.

Here's a gentle starting point: "self-politeness."

Think of it as the timeless wisdom many of us were taught growing up: "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." Apply this golden rule to your inner dialogue. Begin by being self-polite, as it is a pathway to self-like, and, eventually, self-love. 

Why are we so hard on ourselves in the first place? The inner critic often echoes voices from our childhood, be it parents, caregivers, or societal expectations. Surprisingly, the positive intention behind the inner critic is usually to motivate you to be "good" so that your basic human needs for love, safety, and belonging are met.

Take a moment to reflect: How do you talk to yourself when you make a mistake or fall short of a goal? Do you berate yourself or acknowledge the effort you put in?

If you're uncertain about your inner dialogue, start paying attention. The beauty is that it's never too late to transform the most important relationship in your life—the one with yourself.

If you haven’t already, I invite you to take my Self-WELLth Assessment to determine how well you treat yourself mind, body, and spirit. This is not an opportunity for judgment, rather an opportunity for reflective curiosity.

As Carl Jung says, “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.”

Laura Jack
The Art Of Receiving Compliments

A trend I have noticed with people, particularly women, is that we often struggle to receive compliments.

Often it sounds something like this:

Person 1 : "You look nice today." Or "I love your outfit."

Person 2: "No, I don't. I am literally a train wreck right now. I had no sleep. I am running around with my head cut off. I have gained 10 pounds since I saw you last. And this dress was $6 from the clearance section at Ross."

If any of this sounds like you, please know that you are not alone. My intention is not guilt or shame, but rather to bring your awareness to this and offer an opportunity to try on something new.

Here's the thing -- a compliment is really a gift.

Imagine someone extending a beautifully wrapped present to you, and instead of accepting it with gratitude, you knock it out of their hand.

Here's what happens when we deny or reject compliments:

  • We're not just rejecting a kind gesture, we may be unintentionally hurting the other person. It's like telling them, "You and your perception are wrong." 

  •  We potentially block future compliments, and you might start wondering if others appreciate your efforts, your appearance, or your kindness.

  • We're unkind to ourselves, and we rob ourselves of the joy that comes from receiving the gift of the compliment.

So, what's the solution?

It's surprisingly simple, though not always easy.

Just say, "Thank you." That's all it takes. If you're feeling bold, you can even add, "I appreciate you noticing" or "I like this outfit too."

When you respond with gratitude, you're accepting a gift graciously, and in doing so, you're giving a gift in return. You're telling the other person that their kindness matters, that they matter. It's a beautiful exchange of positive energy.

This doesn't just apply to compliments about our appearance. It's also relevant when someone acknowledges your hard work, your kindness, or your efforts. Instead of brushing it off with "It's no big deal," acknowledge their appreciation with "You're welcome" or "It was my pleasure."

I encourage you to try this for just one day. If it feels good, go for a week. Challenge yourself to accept compliments with a simple "Thank you" and respond to gratitude with "You're welcome." It might feel a bit uncomfortable initially, as you unlearn an old societal norm, but I promise you'll notice more uplifting interactions in your life, both personally and professionally.

Let's make this week one of gracious acceptance and generous gratitude. Try it on and see how it feels. I'd love to hear about your experiences with this simple yet transformative practice.

Let us know how we can support you here.

Laura Jack
Redefine Leadership Though Compassion

Creating a culture of compassion begins with a single, powerful choice—the choice to embrace compassion in your thoughts and beliefs, both about yourself and others. It's about living the compassion code, a way of life that extends understanding, empathy, and the benefit of the doubt to everyone we encounter.

Compassion isn't just a fleeting emotion; it's a culture we cultivate every day. This culture is built on a foundation of gratitude and regular compliments, a willingness to apologize and forgive, and the acknowledgment of a greater purpose in every interaction. It's about recognizing our common humanity and understanding that every person carries a valid and unique story.

When you choose to embody compassion, even in the face of indifference or negativity, you become a catalyst for elevating the consciousness of your environment. This journey requires trust and surrender, qualities that are entirely attainable once you learn to have compassion for yourself and appreciate the inherent brilliance within you.

Belief in others' greatness is a transformative force. When you truly see and believe in the potential of those around you, they sense it, and they respond by showing up in ways you may never have imagined. It's a ripple effect that starts with you, a compassionate leader who embodies the brightest, boldest version of themselves.

As a compassionate leader, you have the power to show vulnerability as strength. Your authenticity becomes your superpower because you've mastered the art of pre-framing all things, setting the stage for open and understanding interactions.

You have the privilege of being your best self without apology, knowing that your authenticity inspires others to rise alongside you.

A culture of compassion originates from one courageous individual: You. Your actions, your choices, and your unwavering commitment to shining your unique light. Don't underestimate the impact you have on those around you—your family, friends, colleagues, and everyone fortunate enough to share your presence.

Embrace the grace in your presence, for you are a beacon of light. When you shine and wholeheartedly believe in your brilliance, true magic happens, and genuine transformations take place.

If this message resonates with you, if it ignites a spark of recognition within your heart, I invite you to join me on a profound journey of self-discovery and compassion as part of the next cohort of The Compassion Code Academy by applying here.

In the Academy, you'll heal from your past, find inner peace, and acquire the essential skills to communicate with compassion in both your personal and professional life. It's not always easy to say yes, but it's often in those moments of courage that our most remarkable transformations occur.

Are you ready to step into your role as a compassionate leader? Let's embark on this transformative journey together. Your decision to say yes can be the catalyst for a compassionate culture that transcends you and touches the lives of countless others.

Laura Jack
The Art of Caring: How to Avoid Burnout in 3 Simple Steps

Yesterday, I met up with a new friend who is a Naturopathic Doctor. When I shared with her what I do, she asked me, “How do you give to so many and care so much without being crushed by the suffering of the world?”

Here is a summary of what I shared:

As empathetic individuals, we have a remarkable gift for understanding and sharing in the emotions of those around us.

However, when it comes to fostering healthy relationships and embracing our roles as compassionate leaders, it's crucial to establish boundaries around the care we provide to others. If we don’t then we can become overwhelmed, resentful, or neglectful of our own well-being. And then something even worse happens: we have nothing left to give!

So, how can we navigate the terrain of empathy without feeling drained?

Step 1: Shift Your Mentality about Pain and Hardship

One key to maintaining emotional balance is changing how we perceive pain and hardship. Instead of viewing these experiences as inherently negative, we can recognize them as essential components of personal growth. Just as we evolve through life's challenges, so do those we care about.

By reframing our perspective, we release the impulse to "fix" others when they are struggling. Instead, we validate their experiences, acknowledging their pain as part of their unique journey. This shift from fixing to validating enables us to grow in compassion without shouldering their suffering. Our role transitions from advice-giver to empathetic listener, fostering genuine connections heart-to-heart.

Step 2: Set Healthy Boundaries

Boundaries are the foundation of compassionate self-care. Begin by understanding your own needs and communication style, and then express these to your loved ones and regular interactions. Start with a foundation of love, explaining your feelings and expectations openly. Here is an example of how this sounds:

"I want you to know that I deeply value our partnership and the roles we each play. Recently, I've been feeling frustrated because I don't feel like my contributions are being recognized. I understand we both have demanding roles, and I'm committed to validating myself. However, I would greatly appreciate it if you could share the aspects of my work that you find particularly valuable. I thrive when I receive words of affirmation from those I care about. Thank you for your support, and please let me know how I can best support you."

Step 3: Let Go of Thinking It's About You

It's a fundamental truth: most often, it's not about you. People, even those close to us, are entrenched in their own worlds. When they express anger or rudeness, take a deep breath and remind yourself, "This is not about me." Beneath their outward reactions, there usually lies a hidden story of unresolved pain or personal judgment. Although it's unfair for them to direct their frustrations at you, you can defuse the situation by not taking it personally.

Rather than assuming it's about you, consider asking yourself, "What can I learn from this experience?" or "What might this person be mirroring for me?" Every encounter, even when overheard, holds the potential for personal growth.

Remember, nurturing compassion without succumbing to burnout is an ongoing practice. By shifting your perspective, setting healthy boundaries, and letting go of personalization, you can create a space for deeper connections and personal growth.

In the spirit of continuous learning and growth, I'm excited to share that our next Compassion Code Academy cohort will begin next month. This transformative journey will equip you with invaluable skills for compassionate leadership and communication. If you're interested in learning more, you can apply here.

Laura Jack
Leading with Compassion: Are You Walking Your Talk?

In today's fast-paced world, compassionate leadership isn't just a desirable trait; it's a necessity. It's the ability to inspire, motivate, and empower those around us. But to truly lead with compassion, we must begin by leading ourselves.

We've all heard the saying, "Be the change you want to see in the world." It's a call to action, a reminder that true transformation begins within. When we embrace this principle, we not only take responsibility for our own actions but also set an example for others to follow. Leading by example with kindness, compassion, and respect is the most authentic way to motivate and inspire those in our lives. It's about walking the talk.

With curiosity rather than judgement, reflect on the qualities of a Compassionate Leader:

Authenticity:

Leading with compassion starts with authenticity. It means being vulnerable, courageous, and real. It's about showing up as your true self, without pretenses or masks. Authentic leaders are relatable because they're genuine. They inspire trust and create a safe place for others to be themselves.

**Authenticity does not mean sharing everything with everyone. Knowing how and when to share is key.

Self-Love:

Compassionate leaders love themselves enough to let go of shame and step into their power as creators of their lives. They understand that self-love isn't selfish; it's a prerequisite for genuinely caring for others. When you love and respect yourself, you set a standard for how you want others to treat you.

Honesty:

Leading with compassion requires honesty, both with yourself and with others. It's about telling the truth, even when it's uncomfortable. It's also about being open to feedback and willing to admit when you're wrong. Authenticity and transparency are at the heart of compassionate leadership.

** Part of The Compassion Code Academy, our leadership and communication training, teach you how to speak your truth with kindness.

Curiosity:

Curiosity about others is a hallmark of compassionate leaders. They're genuinely interested in people and value their perspectives. Instead of jumping to conclusions or making assumptions, they ask questions and seek to understand. I call this benefit of the doubt thinking. This curiosity fosters connection and empathy.

Growth Mindset:

Compassionate leaders embrace a growth mindset. They're open to personal growth and improvement, recognizing that there's always room to learn and develop. This mindset not only benefits them but also sets an example for others to continually strive for betterment.

** Walking the line between accepting yourself as you are and being determined to grow and improve is a delicate balance.

Global Vision:

Compassionate leaders have a global sense or a greater vision. They understand that each person's contribution is invaluable and that true success requires teamwork. They see the big picture and recognize that it takes a collective effort to bring about meaningful change.

Team Empowerment:

Empowering the team is a crucial aspect of compassionate leadership. It involves recognizing and celebrating the strengths of each team member, allowing them to shine in their unique ways. Delegation is a form of receiving that lets others contribute their strengths. It's a win-win approach.

Compassion Code:

Living the Compassion Code means embracing compassion as a practice. It's not just a passive feeling; it's an active choice to show kindness, understanding, and empathy in every situation. Compassion isn't reserved for special occasions; it's a way of life.

Integrity and Accountability:

Compassionate leaders are in profound integrity with themselves. They own their successes and their mistakes. They practice accountability, recognizing that taking responsibility for their actions is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Forgiving:

Lastly, compassionate leaders understand the power of forgiveness. They practice forgiveness, both towards themselves and others. Forgiveness liberates the spirit and allows for healing and growth.

So, gently ask yourself are you walking your talk?

Remember, leading by example isn't just a slogan; it's a powerful way to grow, evolve, and elevate yourself. It's about setting the standard for the kind of world you want to live in.

In our ever-changing and often challenging world, compassionate leadership is more crucial than ever. It's the key to building trust, fostering meaningful connections, and inspiring positive change. It starts with each one of us, and it's a journey we're all on together.

And speaking of compassionate leadership, we're thrilled to announce that our next cohort of the Compassion Code Academy will kick off next month. If you're interested in joining us on this transformative journey, feel free to apply here. Space is limited, so reserve your spot and take a significant step forward in your compassionate leadership journey.

Let's continue to inspire and empower one another, walking the path of compassionate leadership. Together, we can create a world filled with kindness, understanding, and positive change.

Laura Jack
6 Self-Care Reminders For Navigating the Post-Vacation Transition

After an incredible summer adventure with my family, I'm back home, and the reality of everyday life is sinking in. As someone who teaches self-compassion, I understand the importance of being kind to oneself, especially during this transition period. It's all too easy to fall into the trap of feeling unproductive or scattered. Just know that you are worthy of love, and your worth isn't tied to your productivity.

Here are 6 self-care reminders to help you through this transition:

1. Clear the Clutter:

The first step to regaining your sense of balance is to declutter your space. Start with your physical surroundings. Tidy up your home, organize your workspace, and clear away the post-vacation chaos. A clean and organized environment can help you think more clearly and feel more in control.

2. Do Some Healthy Movement:

Physical activity is a great way to reconnect with your body and boost your mood. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or a favorite workout routine, moving your body can release those feel-good endorphins and help you regain your focus.

3. Drink Lots of Water:

Hydration is essential, and it's often overlooked. Drinking plenty of water can help you feel more energized and alert. It's a simple but effective way to take care of yourself as you settle back into your routine.

4. Rest:

Remember that your body and mind may need some extra rest after an adventure-filled vacation. Give yourself permission to nap, take short breaks throughout the day, and sleep in this weekend. Rest is an essential component of self-compassion.

5. Be Present:

As you transition back to your daily life, practice being present in the moment. It's easy to get caught up in thoughts of what needs to be done or what you might have missed during your time away. Get back in your body by bringing your attention to your 5 senses. Mindfulness can help reduce stress and increase your overall well-being.

6. Make a Plan:

Lastly, create a plan for the upcoming weeks. I like to make a brain dump list where I get everything out of my head and onto paper. From there I can prioritize for both work and personal life. Having a plan in place can give you a sense of direction and purpose as you move forward.

Remember, it's perfectly okay to feel a bit scattered when transitioning from a vacation mindset to your daily routine. Self-compassion is about treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you offer to others. Embrace these simple self-care practices, and you'll find your center once again.

So, whether you're just returning from a vacation or facing any challenging transition in life, take a moment to be compassionate with yourself. You are worthy, lovable, and fully capable of navigating this journey.

If you haven’t already, take our Self-WELLth Assessment to reflect on how well you are treating yourself in the different areas of life.

Laura Jack
Unlocking Leadership Confidence: From Boardroom to Home

As high achievers, many of my clients have reached remarkable success in their careers, making a significant impact on the lives of those they've encountered. They've climbed the corporate ladder, built impressive resumes, and earned positions of leadership. Yet, behind closed doors, a different narrative often unfolds. A narrative of self-doubt, uncertainty, and a struggle for confidence, particularly in the realm of personal relationships and family dynamics.

It's a paradox that can leave these accomplished individuals feeling at odds with themselves. They excel in the professional arena, where their leadership and expertise are revered, but when they step into their homes, they're faced with an unsettling sense of inadequacy. The desire to be exceptional in all aspects of life, coupled with the frustration of feeling less competent at home, can create a profound internal conflict.

Imagine this scenario: a successful executive who commands the respect of their colleagues, making critical decisions with ease and influencing teams. Yet, upon returning home, they find themselves grappling with self-doubt and apprehension. It's not a lack of love for their family; rather, it's a sense of vulnerability that arises when confronted with the intimate complexities of personal relationships.

For these high achievers, wanting to be an exceptional parent, partner, or family member is a heartfelt aspiration. The motivation stems from a genuine desire to provide more, to offer the best of themselves to those they care about. However, the reality often falls short. Burnout can creep in as they strive to maintain the same level of performance at home that they do at work.

And yet, this yearning to be great is not a sign of inadequacy. Quite the opposite—it's a reflection of how deeply they care. Acknowledging this caring nature is essential, but so is remembering that self-compassion is paramount. No one is perfect; everyone grapples with moments of uncertainty. It's in these moments that the Maya Angelou quote, "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” holds significance.

The truth is, much of the way we lead, parent, and relate is influenced by our childhood experiences and role models. Often, this means we're operating on patterns and behaviors we learned unconsciously. Words attributed to Carl Jung echo in this context: "Until we make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate."

If we genuinely want to transform these patterns and upgrade our leadership and relationships both at home and in the workplace, we need to do so consciously. A common question arises: "Shouldn't I already know how to handle these situations?" The answer is no. These skills aren't typically taught in school, and they're not innate to everyone. However, they are learnable.

The path to unlocking leadership confidence—both in the boardroom and at home—begins with acknowledging that these are learnable skills. They require a willingness to explore, reflect, and grow. As high achievers, this willingness is already part of their DNA; it's what has propelled them to success.

Understanding that they're not alone in this journey is vital. Many others have faced similar challenges, even those who outwardly exude confidence. This commonality serves as a reminder that the pursuit of growth is shared. And growth involves self-compassion—the recognition that, just as they extend understanding and forgiveness to others, they must do the same for themselves.

In essence, the shift from professional prowess to domestic confidence requires embracing the understanding that growth is a continuous journey. It's about consciously choosing to evolve, to bring to light what was once unconscious. With self-compassion as the guiding light, the intricate tapestry of leadership, relationships, and personal growth can be woven into a harmonious whole.

So, to those who wonder whether they should already know how to navigate these complexities, remember that you're on a path of continuous learning. And the willingness to learn, to explore, and to evolve is where true leadership, both at work and at home, is cultivated.

If this message resonates with you, and you're ready to bridge the gap between your personal and professional worlds, the Compassion Code Academy may be the next step. Let's embark on a transformative journey together that will empower you to achieve personal and professional fulfillment. You can apply here to learn more and determine if we are a good fit!

Laura Jack
Fearless Leadership: Harnessing the Power of Love and Authenticity

Leadership isn't just about the title—it's a profound journey that requires authenticity, vulnerability, and courage. Today, let's explore a pivotal mindset shift that can redefine your leadership experience: moving from a Fear Mindset to a Love Mindset.

In a Fear Mindset, leadership can feel daunting, burdened by questions like:

  • "Will they think I am doing it right?"

  • "What if they don’t respect me?"

  • "What if I am not cut out for this position after all?"

  • "What if someone else has a better idea?"

  • "What if I am exposed as a fraud?"

These thoughts are rooted in fear, self-doubt, and a lack of self-compassion. They are the voice of drama consciousness. But there's a transformative path.

When we practice self-compassion, self-love, and self-acceptance, our thinking shifts, and so do our interactions. We transition from doubt, fear, and comparison to an abundant, loving mindset—entering presence consciousness.

In a Love Mindset, leadership resonates with thoughts like:

  • "I am grateful for opportunities to grow."

  • "I am enough as I am. I respect myself, and others respect me."

  • "Being imperfect is okay; it encourages growth in myself and others."

  • "Together, we can find solutions that benefit everyone."

  • "I trust in my authenticity and ability to make a positive impact."

  • "Asking for help empowers me and others."

  • "Even without all the answers, I fully accept myself."

Adopting a mentality of abundance, remember: "If you bring a thimble to the ocean of abundance, you will take away a thimble. And if you bring a tanker, you'll take away a tanker." Abundance remains constant; there's enough for everyone—love, connection, power.

When you realize that love is abundant and you are enough, you'll lead with compassion, without fearing your own shadow or doubting your worthiness. You'll shine your light on others, elevating them without attachment.

The journey of leadership requires that we also embrace vulnerability and healing. We don't have to share our vulnerable truths with everyone. As leaders, it's vital to have the "right support"—a team that can hold space for our growth, challenges, and evolution. "Teach from the resurrection, not from the crucifixion," as Marianne Williamson says.

In our roles as guides and mentors, let's lead from healed places, not wounded ones. Vulnerability isn't weakness—it's strength. We hold space for others from a place of humility, recognizing that our journey is ongoing.

Remember, leadership starts from within. Shifting from fear to love creates a ripple effect, transforming not just your leadership, but the entire landscape around you.

If you're ready to embrace this transformative leadership journey and shift from fear to love, I invite you to apply for our upcoming Compassion Code Academy Leadership Cohort. This training will empower you with tools, strategies, and insights to lead authentically and compassionately. Spaces are limited, so apply now to secure your spot!

Laura Jack
The Art of Communication: Building Connections Through Words and Presence

As a child, I vividly remember my father saying, “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” Over time, I've come to realize that both elements hold immense significance. Yes, the tone and delivery of our words are crucial, but the content of what we say is equally important. It's a dynamic interplay between what and how.

Consider the words you choose, the cadence of your voice, the nuances of your body language, and the intentions that shape your words. This intricate symphony of communication has the power to either strengthen or weaken connections. Before engaging in a challenging conversation, I make it a point to set the intention for a healthy exchange. I've learned that being mindful of my tone, ensuring it carries genuine curiosity rather than judgment, makes a remarkable difference.

One valuable lesson from my coach training has remained with me: humans are naturally drawn to "like kind." In the context of connections, this implies that individuals who harbor compassion for themselves and their struggles can more easily establish rapport with others. While we yearn to know we're not alone, we also seek acknowledgment that our experiences are uniquely ours. This profound commonality of emotions, the shared human experience, makes us inherently "like-kind" on a fundamental level. As a result, forming connections becomes not just possible, but often effortless.

The significance of nonverbal communication in rapport-building cannot be overstated. Here are some simple yet powerful tools:

  1. Sincere Eye Contact: While avoiding a stare, maintaining natural and gentle eye contact signals that you care, are attentive, and willing to be present.

  2. Align Words and Body Language: Ensure your body language aligns with your spoken sentiments. Facing the person with genuine eye contact reinforces your sincerity.

  3. Open Posture: Whether sitting or standing, keep your arms and legs uncrossed. Crossed limbs or turning away may inadvertently convey closure and disinterest.

  4. Stay Present: Engage fully with what the other person is saying. Even momentary distractions can make them feel unimportant.

  5. Address Distractions: Should you become distracted, honesty is the best policy. Admit your lapse and ask them to repeat their last statement. This genuine approach helps rebuild rapport quickly.

  6. Mirroring for Connection: At times, mirroring the other person's body language can foster rapport. This isn't about imitation but creating a sense of similarity. Subtle gestures of mirroring can establish a subconscious connection, enhancing the interaction.

Effective communication goes beyond words; it embodies empathy, respect, and understanding. By combining these nonverbal tools with the intention to communicate compassionately, we elevate the quality of our interactions. These practices not only build rapport but also nurture an environment where connection thrives.

In my journey with The Compassion Code Academy, I've uncovered a profound truth: compassion, a force transcending mere words, serves as the bridge that unites us, forging an unbreakable bond of shared understanding.

For a deeper dive into compassionate communication, join me by downloading The Compassion Code Starter Guide or join us in The Compassion Collective: Expert Coaching to Navigate Life’s Challenges With Compassion. Let's journey together in cultivating empathy and understanding through our words and presence.