Do you believe that you have to give up your humanity to be an effective leader?
In this episode of Life After Corporate, Deb Boulanger sits down with Massimo Backus to explore the transformative idea that self-compassion is not just a personal virtue but an essential leadership revelation. Massimo, who transitioned from a high-powered corporate role to becoming an influential executive coach, shares an inspiring story of how embracing his humanity reshaped his leadership and life. From confronting tough feedback in his corporate career to experiencing a life-changing moment during the quiet of a retreat, Massimo reveals how self-compassion serves as the foundation for authentic leadership.
His journey offers a fresh perspective on what success truly means, encouraging listeners to rethink traditional notions of leadership.”
[00:01–02:25] The Corporate Leadership Paradigm
Understand the pressure of "up into the right" in corporate culture
Realize the normalization of leaving humanity at the corporate door
Grapple with the Goldilocks syndrome and the struggle of fitting in
Reflect on the narrow lines of acceptable behavior at higher echelons
[02:26–04:10] Facing Feedback and Self-Discovery
Address the challenges of dealing with critical 360-degree feedback
Examine the internal chatter that propels defensiveness
Investigate the origins of leadership behaviors and unmet needs
Explore the significance of the Hoffman process in personal growth
[07:47–10:14] Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
Discover the value of unlearning self-criticism and embracing self-compassion
Learn how to navigate the fear and uncertainty of entrepreneurship
Explore the importance of aligning business pursuits with personal purpose
Reflect on the rituals of letting go and creating a new identity
[10:15–14:17] Thriving in Continuous Evolution
Embrace the mindset of constant self-improvement and self-actualization
Highlight the shift from achiever-driven goals to purpose-driven work
Identify the significance of emotional resilience in business ups and downs
Recognize the long-term impact of self-compassion in organizational growth
Connect with Massimo Bacchus
Massimo Backus, MA, CPCC, ACC
Executive Coaching & Leadership Development
Order Now: "Human First, Leader Second"
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Go to https://lifeaftercorporate.com/podcast for all episodes
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Tweetable Quotes:
"And what happened in that moment was an epiphany, and it was the first time in my life that I can recall where the negative critic, that horrible self-talk, that berating voice was gone." Massimo Bacchua on the journey to self-discovery
"I had something that I needed to say that I didn't see coming from anywhere else. And so I felt compelled to do that and import myself into that process."... Massimo Bacchua on finding Purpose in Passion
**TRANSCRIPT AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST**
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