Authoring a Self-Compassionate Story with Massimo Backus

Dr. Nathan Regier, your host, welcomes returning podcast guest Massimo Backus, a distinguished executive coach and leadership development consultant. He is the host of the Leadership Mind podcast and a documentary filmmaker who captures the essence of the human experience and an empathetic and holistic approach to leadership.    In today’s conversation, Massimo shares wisdom from his new book Human First, Leader Second: How Self Compassion Outperforms Self Criticism, underscores the importance of loving ourselves first, and offers insights into today’s leadership.    Key Takeaways: [2:15] Massimo’s book started off as a dream and became a reality because the message matters.  [4:21] What surprised Massimo most about the book writing process?  [5:45] The main message of Human First, Leader Second: How Self Compassion Outperforms Self Criticism is that our humanness is what connects us all together.  [8:04] Massimo’s journey is living proof of the humanness of the life journey and the importance of self-compassion.  [11:31] How Massimo designed the book and how he hopes it will be used. [14:08] Research suggests you will be more successful if you practice self-compassion.  [15:05] The unique perspective on self-compassion that Massimo wants to shine a brighter light on.  [16:36] WIMPS are well-intentioned, misinformed protectors that we have to learn to live with.  [18:35] The three steps that are an on-ramp into the practice of self-compassion.  [19:40] Without accountability, there is no self-compassion.  [20:35] Massimo unpacks the importance of awareness, acceptance and accountability.  [22:02] Feelings are for feeling, and feelings are just data points.  [24:05] Action items that will lead to accountability.  [26:06] Massimo explains how to feel feelings without losing control.  [28:25] Emotions are a language that we all need to learn to speak with fluency.  [29:28] Massimo’s word model covers awareness, acceptance and accountability.  [32:05] Becoming comfortable in your own skin is about more than just acting authentically.  [34:24] Massimo’s Declaration captures the key lessons from his book.  [37:57] Massimo’s invitation to pause and ask yourself how to employ self-compassion.   Mentioned in this episode: The Compassion Mindset Compassionate Accountability: How Leaders Build Connection and Get Results, Nate Regier Visit Next-Element On Compassion Podcast Episode 037: Self-compassion: The Key to Effective Leadership with Massimo Backus  Human First, Leader Second: How Self Compassion Outperforms Self Criticism, Massimo Backus  Massimo Backus on LinkedIn   The Compassionate Accountability Podcast is produced in partnership with Podfly Productions.    Tweetables: “The idea for this book hit me over the head and I just couldn’t let it go.” #oncompassion   “Self-compassion is the practice that allows us to accept our humanity.” #oncompassion   “We don’t need to control or be perfect all the time. That’s actually getting in our way.”  #oncompassion   “When we’re internally resourced by self-compassion, we don’t need validation from others.” #oncompassion   “I can be the author of my story, rather than the victim of it.” #oncompassion