Heather Younger: How to Master Self-Leadership

Episode recap:

Marcel and Heather Younger explored the crucial role of self-leadership in leading others effectively. Younger discussed her new book, The Art of Self-Leadership, emphasizing that self-leadership is the foundation of effective leadership and highlighting the importance of self-awareness, emotional resilience, and personal growth. Heather shared her journey from corporate challenges to entrepreneurship, underscoring the need to reframe setbacks as learning opportunities and prioritize self-care. They discussed the connection between mental health and leadership, drawing from personal experiences and high-profile examples like Simone Biles and Kevin Love. Recognizing fear-driven actions, setting clear expectations in relationships, and embracing self-love were key takeaways, reinforcing that strong leadership starts with mastering oneself. 

Bio

Heather R Younger, J.D, CSP, is a former practicing lawyer who demonstrates how to put empathy into action through the power of Caring Leadership®.

She is the visionary Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a preeminent employee engagement and workplace culture consulting firm to Fortune 100 companies. 

Heather has been named to the Thinkers50 Radar 25, is an award-winning leader in the area of Employee Engagement as recognized by Inspiring Workplaces, is a LinkedIn Learning course partner, 3-time best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and the host of the popular Leadership With Heart podcast.

Quotes:

• "If we don't get ourselves right, I don't care how big your team is. You're never going to be as effective as you want to be."
• "Our behaviors and our intentional choices determine how we show up for others and for ourselves."
• "We can't spill out into the world with all the love we really have inside of us unless we develop the love inside of us for ourselves."

Takeaways:

• Conduct a self-audit on your personal values - identify the ones you truly believe in and assess how well you are living up to them on a daily basis.
• Establish clear expectations and communication with your manager or team - don't wait for them to set the agenda, take initiative to drive your own progress.
• Prioritize self-care practices that nurture your mental, physical, and emotional well-being - find activities that recharge and fortify you.
• Approach feedback with an open mindset - view it as a gift, even if it's difficult to hear, and look for opportunities to grow.
• Stop waiting for the "green lights" - take ownership of your personal journey and create the change you seek, rather than relying on others.

Timestamps:

[00:04] Introduction

[03:54] How a tough layoff led Heather to a new purpose

[06:24] Why self-leadership is the key to real success

[11:36] The link between self-awareness, fear, and confidence

[21:51] Small wins, self-care, and treating yourself like a brand

[44:01] How to stop fear from holding you back in work and life

[45:42] The secret to better communication and stronger influence

[51:21] Why self-advocacy matters and how to take control now

Links/Resources:

Buy The Art of Self-Leadership - https://www.caringleadershiplearning.com/selfleadershipbook

Heather Younger website - https://heatheryounger.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heatherryoungerofficial/ 

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