Ep 220: Navigating change with compassion

In this episode, I look at how self-compassion can help us navigate organisational change – one of the most common, and often most difficult, experiences we face at work.

I start with a quick recap of what self-compassion actually is (and isn’t): mindful awareness of our difficulties, a sense of common humanity, and genuine self-kindness — not softness, not lowered standards, and definitely not “keep calm and carry on.”

I explore why change tends to feel threatening, even when it’s handled well and how some of our typical responses can quietly undermine us during change, and how they can tip into unsustainable coping strategies. Then I turn to how self-compassion helps: acknowledging our distress honestly, connecting with others rather than pulling away, and taking intentional, kind action to support ourselves through the process.

I also bring in Martin Seligman’s model of pessimism (personal, permanent, pervasive) and make the case for real optimism — not denial, but a mature belief in our own ability to navigate what’s ahead. I close by connecting self-compassion to how leaders show up for others during change, including the risks of toxic positivity and unhelpful labelling.

You can always get in touch with your questions and comments – it’s great to hear from listeners! Email at via ‘podcast at worklifepsych dot com’ or join the conversation over at WorkLifeSpark, our online personal development community.

Thanks for listening!

  • Date July 30, 2026
  • Tags Change, Compassion