Episode Summary:
What if the reason you feel stuck isn't your circumstance—but your comparison?
In this episode, I share a story about racing my young son—a moment that unexpectedly revealed how comparison can distort our vision and derail our growth. I unpack the dangers of comparison, the surprising results from my Leadership and Engagement study, and what PTSD studies taught me about the power of belief.
You'll hear why so many people feel stuck at a "5," and what it really takes to build the emotional strength to move forward—regardless of what life throws your way. Whether you're a leader, a parent, or someone navigating burnout, this episode will challenge you to stop looking sideways and start investing in the one skill that matters most right now: resilience. Because you're not in a race—you're on a mission.
00:00 Stretch Capacity Story: Racing My Son
01:16 The Comparison Trap
03:06 What Leadership Research Reveals
05:39 The Danger of Measuring Against Others
07:13 The PTSD Insight That Changes Everything
08:34 You Are Not Your Circumstances
10:46 Resilience Is Essential
12:26 When Your Resilience Reserves Are Low
14:16 You're Not in a Race
15:59 Own Your Emotional Wellness
17:06 Make Resilience a Habit
18:25 Resilience Education Starts with You
20:03 Emotional Intelligence in the Age of AI
21:18 Final Thoughts & Challenge
Ready to build resilience that lasts?
If you're looking to strengthen your team's capacity to thrive through change, handle pressure, and stay engaged—resilience training is the next right step.
Let's talk about how I can support your organization through a keynote, workshop, or leadership retreat. I'll bring research-backed strategies that help your team stretch without snapping—and perform at their best.
Prefer to start with a resource?
Download my Leadership and Engagement Blueprint—a practical guide to help leaders increase performance, trust, and emotional intelligence in today's fast-paced workplace.
Leadership & Engagement Blueprint
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Instagram @speakmichelle & @bethehappyist
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