Monday Musing: We all know the value of having good friends, but have you ever thought about how important it is to be your own friend?

This idea really hit home for me recently, thanks to Australian Olympic Boxer Harry Garside. Harry, who made history by winning a bronze at Tokyo 2020, recently faced the heartbreak of falling short of his gold medal dream at the Paris Olympics. For any athlete, that’s a tough pill to swallow. 

But instead of letting that disappointment define him, he’s used it as a moment of reflection and growth. He realised that his two-decade pursuit of gold was about so much more than just victory—it was about discovering who he truly is and learning to be his own best friend. (Harry recently shared these reflections with his followers—you can watch it here.)

Think about your best friend—the person who always has your back, who cheers you on no matter what. Now, what if you could be that same supportive, encouraging presence for yourself? So often, we say things to ourselves that we would never allow anyone else to say to us. Why is that? It’s time to flip the script and become our own biggest cheerleader.

In life and leadership, this self-support is crucial. When we’re kind to ourselves, we set the tone for how we treat and lead others. Yes, it’s easier said than done—some days self-kindness is tough, and we still need accountability. But research by Professor Adam Alter from NYU’s Stern School of Business highlights a common regret among palliative care patients: they wished they had been less hard on themselves.

Why wait until it’s too late to make a change?

So, what’s one kind thing you could say to yourself right now? Let’s start this Monday by giving ourselves a bit of love <3

How do you speak to yourself after a setback? Are you kind and supportive, or critical and harsh?

 Remind yourself you’re amazing just as you are—no gold medals needed!

Image: Susan David P.h.D

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed by the fast-paced world of business? In my chat with B&T Magazine, I spill the secrets on how to keep up! Learn how to embrace change, boost your confidence step-by-step, and why Africa is the next big thing. Click here to read more.

What I’ve been up to over the week that was.

I recently had the  opportunity to MC the Sydney CityTalks event, which launched the City’s new 10-year economic strategy and delved deep into what’s driving the city’s future prosperity.

Discussions centred on what would shape the next wave of innovation-led growth, and how industry, government and community groups could spark the creativity needed to realise it.  It was an inspiring night featuring an array of trailblazing Sydney stories and storytellers.

What did you think of this week’s issue? 

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