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The Leader’s Compass: Cultivating Self-Compassion on a Morning Run

Carroll Macey

In the Autumn, I love to wake up early, tie my shoe laces on my running shoes and head out into a cool, misty morning. It’s early—quiet. The world feels still, as though everything and everyone is holding its breath before the day begins.


As I begin my run, I feel the familiar rhythm take over, each step grounding me, and each breath bringing me deeper into the moment. Today, this run, like so many others, is a sanctuary—a time for self-reflection, a chance to just be.


I decided to listen to a podcast on Self Compassion. It’s a concept I talk about often, especially in leadership settings. In my work with leaders, I see individuals who are driven, committed, and compassionate with their teams, yet they can be unyieldingly hard on themselves as they feel responsible, almost invincible at times, shouldering the burdens of their organisations. Yet, they forget that the same compassion they extend to others should also be given to themselves.


Running has always given me a mirror for these reflections. And as I continue down the path, I feel my muscles tighten; my breathing gets heavier. I could push harder, of course. I tell myself to keep going, to dismiss the ache as just a hurdle to overcome. My mind kicks in with that inner critic berating my pace. But today I chose to listen to what my body is telling me. I slow down, let my breathing settle, and remind myself that listening is not weakness. It’s wisdom.


This is what self-compassion looks like in leadership: it’s knowing when to pace yourself, knowing when to slow down, and allowing room for imperfection. I think about the leaders who share their stories of burnout, of feeling “never enough.” Their dedication is inspiring, but the cost is often too high when they don’t extend themselves the same kindness they so readily give to others. It is so important to pause and tune in to our own limits. To learn to listen to ourselves, to show the same understanding for our own needs as we would for a struggling team member.


The irony is, self-compassion isn’t a sign of weakness but of strength. By acknowledging our own humanity, we open ourselves up to learning, to growth, and to a sustainable path forward. When I reflect on those moments of pushing too hard, whether on a run or in life, I realise it’s not the relentless drive that brings out my best, but the gentle self-awareness that reminds me when to pause, when to regroup, and when to forgive myself. I don't always get it right.


As I round the final bend, I feel a sense of calm. This morning run, like leadership, isn’t about pushing to the limit every time; it’s about consistency, resilience, and understanding. It’s about knowing when to push and when to pace, when to extend compassion inward, just as we do outward.


Leadership demands so much, but it’s not sustained by sheer will or resilience alone. It’s nurtured by self-compassion, by the kindness we show ourselves in the moments of struggle, and by the recognition that sometimes the greatest strength lies in simply allowing ourselves to be human. So, as I finish my run and start my stretches, I remind myself: self-compassion is the compass that guides us, both on the trail and in life.


Rethinking leadership means knowing your purpose and following it, connecting to yourself and others and being a full expression of who you are. Here’s to those of us redefining what it means to lead—let’s keep rethinking leadership together.





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