The performing arts are a world of passion, creativity, and dedication. However, behind the curtain, many artists face significant mental health challenges due to competition, financial instability, and constant self-criticism. A recent study by Walton et al. (2025) explores a promising solution: self-compassion. This research suggests that fostering self-kindness and emotional resilience may be key to supporting the wellbeing of musicians, dancers, and actors. Why Self-Compassion Matters for Performers Performers often hold themselves to exceptionally high standards, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout. Walton et al. (2025) conducted two studies to understand the impact of self-compassion in this high-pressure environment. The first study surveyed over 200 Australian performing artists and found that those who practiced self-compassion reported lower levels of anxiety and depression, as well as greater overall wellbeing. In the second study, a small group of performers participated in a three-week compassion-based intervention, including guided meditations and self-reflection exercises. The results were promising—participants showed significant improvements in self-compassion, wellbeing, and body appreciation. However, some also expressed concerns that self-compassion might lower their artistic standards, a common fear among high-achieving individuals. Breaking the Myth: Self-Compassion Doesn’t Mean Lowering Standards One of the most striking findings of the study was that many performers feared self-compassion would make them complacent. This misconception—that being kind to oneself equates to a lack of discipline—often prevents artists from embracing self-care practices. However, the research suggests otherwise. Rather than lowering standards, self-compassion helps performers recover from setbacks, manage self-criticism constructively, and sustain long-term motivation. A Call for More Compassion-Based Interventions Given the positive impact of self-compassion on mental health, the study’s authors advocate for more compassion-based interventions tailored to the performing arts. This could include workshops, meditation programs, or therapy techniques specifically designed for artists. By integrating self-compassion into their daily routines, performers may be better equipped to handle the emotional highs and lows of their careers. The performing arts demand resilience, but true endurance comes not from relentless self-criticism, but from self-kindness. Walton et al.’s study highlights the importance of embracing self-compassion as a tool for both mental wellbeing and artistic excellence. As the industry continues to evolve, prioritizing mental health through compassion-based strategies could be a game-changer for performers worldwide. Reference: Walton, C. C., Kirby, J. N., McKenzie, S., Gao, C. X., Purcell, R., Rice, S. M., & Osborne, M. S. (2025). A preliminary investigation into self-compassion and compassion-based intervention for mental health in the performing arts. Frontiers in Psychology, 16. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1512114

As election day draws near, emotions are running high. For many, the days following the 2024 presidential election will bring a mix of relief, joy, frustration, or uncertainty—depending on the outcome. The post-election period can feel like an emotional whirlwind, and managing these feelings is crucial to maintaining mental well-being. Whether your candidate wins, loses, or the results leave you uncertain about the future, performance psychology offers tools to help you cope with whatever unfolds. In this post, we’ll explore strategies used by elite performers to handle pressure, setbacks, and ambiguity—practical skills you can use to stay balanced, even when the political landscape doesn’t align with your hopes. 1. Process Your Emotions Without Judgment It’s normal to feel strong emotions after an election, especially one that has consumed so much time and energy. Whether it’s excitement, disappointment, or frustration, acknowledging your emotions without judgment allows you to process them effectively. How to Apply It: Name Your Emotions: Label what you’re feeling. Saying, “I feel anxious” or “I’m really angry” helps regulate the brain's emotional response. Accept the Full Range of Emotions: You can feel both relief that the election is over and frustration about the outcome. Allowing mixed emotions prevents you from suppressing what you feel. 2. Practice Radical Acceptance: Let Go of What You Can’t Change Election outcomes are final, and dwelling on the things you can’t control—like vote counts or policies you disagree with—can heighten stress. Radical acceptance, a concept from both mindfulness and performance psychology, involves acknowledging reality as it is, even when it’s not what you hoped for. How to Apply It: Acknowledge Reality: Accept the outcome of the election without trying to change it in your mind. Acceptance doesn’t mean approval—it means freeing yourself from the weight of resistance. Shift to the Next Step: After accepting what has happened, focus your energy on actions you can take moving forward. 3. Manage Ambiguity and Uncertainty In some elections, results take time to finalize or lead to contested outcomes. The uncertainty can fuel anxiety and make it hard to feel settled. Performance psychology teaches us that managing uncertainty is about tolerating discomfort without letting it take over. How to Apply It: Stay Present: Focus on what’s happening in the moment, rather than obsessing over what could happen next. Limit Speculation: Avoid excessive “what if” scenarios. Engage with reliable news sources, but set boundaries around how much time you spend following updates. Use Grounding Techniques: Practice deep breathing, engage your senses, or move your body to bring your focus back to the present when uncertainty feels overwhelming. 4. Find Meaning, No Matter the Outcome Whether the outcome aligns with your hopes or not, it’s important to stay connected to the deeper meaning behind your engagement. Performance psychology highlights the role of intrinsic motivation—pursuing goals that align with values and meaning—over focusing solely on external outcomes. How to Apply It: Reflect on Why You Got Involved: Remind yourself why you cared about the election in the first place. Was it to stand up for a cause? Advocate for change? Those motivations remain, even after the election. Celebrate Your Effort: Whether you volunteered, voted, or stayed informed, your participation mattered. Recognizing your contributions helps sustain long-term motivation. 5. Stay Connected to Supportive Communities Post-election emotions—whether positive or negative—are easier to process when shared with others. Like athletes rely on their teammates, it’s important to stay connected to people who support you emotionally and share your values. How to Apply It: Talk to Trusted Friends or Family: Share your thoughts and feelings with those who will listen without judgment. Join Community Groups: Engaging in advocacy or support groups can provide a sense of belonging and shared purpose, especially if you’re struggling with the results. Know Your Limits: Avoid emotionally draining conversations that leave you feeling worse. Seek out spaces where you feel heard and supported. 6. Plan Your Recovery: Avoid Burnout and Fatigue It’s normal to feel mentally and emotionally exhausted after an intense election season. Just like athletes need recovery after competitions, you need time to recharge. Pushing yourself too hard post-election, especially if the results are disappointing, can lead to burnout. How to Apply It: Step Away for a Bit: Give yourself permission to take a break from news and political discussions. Mental recovery is essential for sustainable engagement. Engage in Non-Political Activities: Spend time with family, enjoy hobbies, or get outdoors to reconnect with the other aspects of your life. Prioritize Sleep and Exercise: Rest and movement are key to recharging your body and mind. 7. Set New Goals and Look Toward the Future Regardless of the election outcome, life goes on, and there are always ways to keep working toward meaningful change. Performance psychology teaches us that setting new goals can help us move forward after setbacks and reframe challenges as opportunities. How to Apply It: Identify What Comes Next: Think about what matters most to you and how you can take small steps toward it. Set Process Goals: Focus on actions within your control—whether it’s staying politically engaged, volunteering for causes, or participating in your community. Embrace a Growth Mindset: Use the election outcome as feedback, not failure. Every experience, even disappointing ones, provides an opportunity to learn and grow. Moving Forward with Resilience The results of the 2024 presidential election will likely stir a range of emotions—relief, joy, disappointment, or uncertainty. No matter how you feel, using performance psychology techniques can help you process your emotions, stay grounded, and find meaning in the experience. By focusing on what you can control, practicing emotional regulation, and leaning on supportive communities, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the post-election period with resilience. And remember—just as athletes recover and set new goals after a season ends, you have the opportunity to rest, reflect, and take meaningful steps forward. At Persistence Psych, we specialize in helping people build mental toughness, emotional regulation, and resilience. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the election results, reach out to us for personalized strategies to help you stay grounded and move forward. Stay connected, take care of yourself, and remember—this moment is just one step in a larger journey. Best regards, The Persistence Psych Team Contact Us: Email: info@persistencepsych.com Website: http://www.persistencepsych.com

As the holiday season approaches, maintaining focus on your performance goals can become increasingly challenging amidst the flurry of activities and commitments. Whether you're an athlete, artist, student, or professional, staying on track with your goals requires strategic planning and disciplined execution. Here are effective strategies to help you stay focused, motivated, and productive despite the holiday chaos: 1. Define Clear and Realistic Goals Start by defining clear and realistic performance goals that align with your aspirations and priorities. Break down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps with specific deadlines. This clarity provides a roadmap for your efforts and enhances motivation by making progress tangible and achievable. 2. Prioritize and Schedule Effectively With a packed holiday schedule, effective time management is crucial. Prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency, allocating dedicated time slots for focused work on your performance goals. Use a planner, calendar, or digital tools to organize your schedule and minimize distractions, ensuring productive use of your time. 3. Maintain Consistent Practice and Training Consistency is key to maintaining progress towards your performance goals. Schedule regular practice sessions, workouts, rehearsals, or study periods to hone your skills and build momentum. Even during busy times, prioritize these sessions as non-negotiable commitments to uphold your dedication and discipline. 4. Adapt and Flexibility Recognize that holiday schedules may require adjustments to your routines or expectations. Embrace flexibility and adaptability in your approach to goal pursuit. Anticipate potential disruptions and proactively plan alternative strategies or contingency plans to stay on track despite unexpected challenges. 5. Set Boundaries and Manage Stress Establish boundaries to protect your time, energy, and focus during the holiday season. Learn to say no to non-essential commitments or activities that may detract from your goals. Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or physical exercise to alleviate pressure and maintain mental resilience. 6. Seek Support and Accountability Engage with a supportive network of mentors, coaches, peers, or accountability partners who can provide encouragement, feedback, and guidance. Share your goals and progress with trusted individuals who can offer perspective, motivation, and constructive support during challenging times. 7. Celebrate Milestones and Progress Acknowledge and celebrate milestones, achievements, and progress towards your performance goals, no matter how small. Recognizing your efforts boosts morale, reinforces positive habits, and enhances motivation to continue pushing towards success amidst holiday distractions. 8. Reflect and Plan for the Future Regularly reflect on your performance, identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, and adjust your strategies accordingly. Use insights gained from reflection to refine your goals, prioritize tasks, and optimize your approach for continued growth and success beyond the holiday season. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate the holiday chaos while maintaining focus on your performance goals. Stay committed to your aspirations, leverage effective planning and time management, embrace flexibility, and seek support when needed. With determination, resilience, and strategic action, you can achieve your performance objectives and thrive amidst the festive hustle and bustle. Here's to staying on track with your performance goals and making the most of the holiday season as you pursue excellence in your endeavors! Best regards, The Persistence Psych Team Contact Us: Email: info@persistencepsych.com Website: http://www.persistencepsych.com

Family gatherings provide valuable opportunities to strengthen bonds, create lasting memories, and foster meaningful connections. However, the quality of these interactions often outweighs the sheer quantity of time spent together. Whether you're gathering for holidays, reunions, or regular visits, here are ways to maximize family time and ensure meaningful connections: 1. Be Present and Engaged Prioritize presence over distractions during family gatherings. Put away electronic devices, silence notifications, and focus on being fully present with your loved ones. Actively engage in conversations, listen attentively, and show genuine interest in each family member's experiences and perspectives. 2. Plan Meaningful Activities Create opportunities for shared experiences that encourage interaction and connection. Plan activities that cater to different interests and ages, such as cooking together, playing games, taking nature walks, or engaging in creative projects. These activities foster teamwork, laughter, and shared memories that strengthen family bonds. 3. Foster Open Communication Encourage open communication by creating a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves. Initiate meaningful conversations about shared memories, personal achievements, future aspirations, or topics of mutual interest. Active listening and respectful communication deepen understanding and strengthen familial relationships. 4. Honor Family Traditions Celebrate and uphold family traditions that hold significance for your family members. Whether it's preparing traditional meals, participating in annual rituals, or sharing stories passed down through generations, honoring traditions fosters a sense of belonging and continuity. These rituals create cherished moments and reinforce familial connections. 5. Practice Gratitude and Appreciation Express gratitude and appreciation for each family member's presence, contributions, and unique qualities. Take time to acknowledge and celebrate individual achievements, milestones, or acts of kindness. Gratitude cultivates positivity, strengthens bonds, and enhances the overall atmosphere of love and appreciation within the family. 6. Respect Boundaries and Differences Respect each family member's boundaries, preferences, and differences. Recognize and embrace diversity of opinions, lifestyles, and beliefs within your family unit. Create an environment where everyone feels valued, accepted, and supported, fostering a sense of harmony and mutual respect. 7. Create Lasting Memories Capture moments of joy and connection by documenting family gatherings through photos, videos, or journal entries. Reflect on these memories together during future gatherings, creating a shared narrative that strengthens familial bonds and preserves cherished moments over time. 8. Prioritize Quality Time Regularly Incorporate regular opportunities for quality family time into your routine beyond special occasions or holidays. Schedule dedicated moments for family dinners, outings, or activities that promote bonding and nurture relationships. Consistent quality time fosters closeness, strengthens connections, and reinforces the importance of family in each member's life. By prioritizing quality over quantity in family gatherings, you create meaningful opportunities to deepen connections, celebrate shared experiences, and nurture a supportive family dynamic. Embrace each moment with intention, gratitude, and love, cultivating lasting memories and strengthening familial bonds that endure beyond the gatherings themselves. Here's to fostering meaningful family connections and creating cherished memories together. Best regards, The Persistence Psych Team Contact Us: Email: info@persistencepsych.com Website: http://www.persistencepsych.com

As the holiday season approaches, it can bring joyous festivities, cherished traditions, and opportunities to connect with loved ones. However, amidst the celebrations, the holiday rush can also bring its fair share of stress and overwhelm. Whether you're preparing for gatherings, managing expectations, or juggling commitments, it's essential to prioritize your well-being. Here are practical strategies to help you navigate holiday stress and maintain balance during this bustling season. 1. Plan Ahead and Prioritize Start by creating a holiday plan that outlines your commitments, events, and tasks. Prioritize activities that align with your values and bring you joy. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to reduce feelings of overwhelm. Setting realistic expectations and timelines can help you stay organized and focused. 2. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude Amidst the hustle and bustle, take moments to practice mindfulness and gratitude. Incorporate deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to stay grounded and present. Reflect on what you're grateful for, whether it's moments of joy, supportive relationships, or personal achievements. Cultivating a positive mindset can enhance resilience and reduce stress levels. 3. Maintain Healthy Habits Prioritize self-care during the holiday season by maintaining healthy habits. Aim for regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep. Physical exercise can alleviate stress, boost mood, and improve overall well-being. Make conscious choices about food and drink, indulging in moderation while prioritizing nourishing options that support your energy levels. 4. Set Boundaries and Learn to Say No During the holidays, there may be pressure to participate in numerous activities or meet others' expectations. It's essential to set boundaries and honor your needs. Learn to say no to commitments that overwhelm you or do not align with your priorities. Asserting boundaries allows you to conserve energy for meaningful engagements and self-care activities. 5. Simplify and Delegate Delegate tasks and responsibilities to lighten your load and foster collaboration with others. Share holiday preparations with family members, friends, or colleagues, distributing tasks according to individual strengths and interests. Simplify traditions or celebrations by focusing on meaningful activities that foster connection and joy. 6. Manage Financial Stress Financial pressures can intensify during the holidays. Create a budget that aligns with your financial resources and priorities. Consider alternative gift-giving approaches, such as homemade gifts or experiences, to reduce financial strain. Focus on experiences and moments of connection rather than excessive spending, emphasizing the true spirit of the season. 7. Stay Connected and Seek Support Maintain connections with supportive friends, family members, or community groups during the holiday season. Reach out for emotional support or practical assistance when needed. Share your feelings and experiences with trusted individuals who can offer empathy, guidance, or perspective. Connection can provide comfort, reduce isolation, and enhance resilience. 8. Embrace Imperfection and Enjoy Moments Above all, embrace imperfection and allow yourself to savor moments of joy and connection. Let go of unrealistic expectations and perfectionism, recognizing that holidays may include unexpected challenges or disruptions. Focus on creating meaningful memories and experiences that align with your values and bring happiness to yourself and others. By implementing these practical strategies, you can navigate holiday stress effectively and maintain a sense of balance and well-being during this busy season. Prioritize self-care, mindfulness, and meaningful connections to enhance resilience and cultivate a positive holiday experience for yourself and those around you. Wishing you a joyful and balanced holiday season filled with moments of love, gratitude, and peace. Best regards, The Persistence Psych Team Contact Us: Email: info@persistencepsych.com Website: http://www.persistencepsych.com

Achieving peak performance in sports, performance arts, or any competitive endeavor requires not only physical prowess but also mental fortitude and strategic focus. At Persistence Psych, we specialize in sport and performance psychology to help individuals like you optimize their performance and achieve their goals. Here’s how partnering with Persistence Psych can elevate your performance to new heights. Tailored Support for Your Goals Our team of experienced sport and performance psychology providers is dedicated to understanding your unique aspirations and challenges. Whether you’re an athlete striving for victory, a performer aiming for perfection on stage, or a professional seeking to excel in your field, we customize our approach to align with your specific goals. By focusing on your individual needs, we help you develop strategies to enhance confidence, manage stress, and maintain peak performance. Evidence-Based Strategies At Persistence Psych, we employ evidence-based techniques rooted in the latest research in sport and performance psychology. From visualization and goal-setting to mindfulness and resilience training, our methods are proven to enhance mental toughness and improve performance outcomes. By integrating cutting-edge strategies into your training regimen, we empower you to perform at your best consistently. Comprehensive Mental Skills Training Achieving success in sports and performance requires more than just physical skill—it demands a strong mental game. Our providers offer comprehensive mental skills training to equip you with the tools needed to thrive under pressure, maintain focus amidst distractions, and bounce back from setbacks. Whether you’re preparing for competition, auditions, presentations, or daily challenges, we help you build resilience and optimize your performance potential. Collaborative Partnership Working with a sport and performance psychology provider at Persistence Psych means you benefit from a collaborative partnership focused on your growth and success. We work alongside you as a supportive ally, providing guidance, feedback, and encouragement every step of the way. Our goal is not only to enhance your performance but also to foster long-term mental resilience and well-being. Accessibility and Convenience We understand the importance of accessibility in optimizing performance. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options and a range of services tailored to fit your lifestyle and commitments. Whether you prefer in-person sessions, virtual consultations, or workshops, we provide convenient solutions to support your journey towards peak performance. Take the Next Step Ready to unlock your full potential and achieve your performance goals? Contact Persistence Psych today to schedule a consultation with one of our sport and performance psychology providers. Together, we’ll develop a personalized plan to enhance your mental skills, elevate your performance, and navigate challenges with confidence. Let’s embark on this journey towards success, resilience, and peak performance together.

As the last days of summer fade away, many people experience what is commonly known as the "end-of-summer scaries." This period can be marked by anxiety and stress as we transition from the relaxed, carefree atmosphere of summer to the more structured and demanding pace of fall. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the change, know that you are not alone. Here are some effective strategies to help you cope with the anxiety and stress that often accompany the end of summer. First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge your feelings. Recognize that it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit anxious or down as summer comes to an end. Sometimes, simply acknowledging that what you’re experiencing is a common reaction can help alleviate some of the stress. Talk to friends or family members about how you’re feeling – chances are, they’re feeling it too, and sharing can be comforting. Creating a transitional routine can be incredibly helpful. Instead of abruptly switching from summer to fall activities, gradually incorporate elements of your fall schedule into your daily life. This might mean slowly adjusting your sleep schedule, starting to plan your fall activities, or even organizing your space for the upcoming season. Easing into your new routine can make the transition feel less daunting and more manageable. It’s also beneficial to reflect on your summer. Take some time to look back on the highlights and achievements of the past few months. Write them down or create a photo collage to remind yourself of the good times. Celebrating your summer experiences can help shift your focus from what you’re leaving behind to what you’ve gained, making it easier to embrace the new season. One effective way to combat the end-of-summer scaries is to plan something to look forward to. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a new hobby, or a fun event, having something exciting on the horizon can provide a positive focal point. It gives you a sense of anticipation and excitement, helping to counterbalance feelings of anxiety or loss. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial during this transitional period. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can all contribute to better mental health and reduced stress levels. Exercise, in particular, is a great way to boost your mood and energy levels. Even a simple walk outdoors can make a significant difference. Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also be incredibly effective. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and clear your mind. These practices can help you stay grounded and present, making the transition smoother. It’s important to set realistic expectations for the fall. Understand that it may take some time to fully adjust to the new routines and demands of the season. Be patient with yourself and allow for some flexibility. If things don’t go exactly as planned, that’s okay. The goal is progress, not perfection. Another helpful strategy is to stay connected with your support network. Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional if you’re feeling particularly stressed or anxious. Having someone to talk to can provide reassurance and practical advice. Sometimes, just knowing that you’re not alone in your feelings can be a huge relief. Lastly, find ways to bring elements of summer into the fall. This could be as simple as continuing to spend time outdoors, incorporating your favorite summer activities into your fall schedule, or even bringing summer flavors into your meals. Keeping a bit of summer with you can help ease the transition and keep your spirits high. Transitioning from summer to fall doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By acknowledging your feelings, creating a transitional routine, reflecting on your summer, planning ahead, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing mindfulness, setting realistic expectations, staying connected, and bringing elements of summer into the fall, you can effectively manage the end-of-summer scaries. Embrace the change and look forward to the opportunities and experiences that the new season will bring.

The saying “It’s lonely at the top” has become a modern-day adage, and it points to the ongoing mental health epidemic. John Cacioppo, who was a professor at the University of Chicago and a founder of social neuroscience, described loneliness as a “perception that one is socially on edge.” Loneliness is particularly prevalent among the “elite” (executives, top athletes, and the like) for three main reasons. 1: Power dynamics People in high positions oftentimes find that this height also lengthens the social and emotional distance from those in lower ranking positions. Social distance has been claimed as a necessary condition to project prestige and influence in senior leadership positions (Collinson, 2005). Similarly, followers may perceive these socially distant leaders as leaders who have greater skills, power, and character. On the other hand, socially close leaders have a lesser ability to hide potential weaknesses (Cole et al., 2009). There are 3 elements that build social distance: psychological distance, physical distance, and perceived frequencies of interactions (Antonakis & Atwater, 2002). Psychological distance can be exhibited in the conversations that leaders have with other people: they may feel the need to hide their emotions, only show strengths, and always be composed. Physical distance is apparent in workplaces in which c-suite executives work on the top floor, while analysts and others work on the ground floor. Oftentimes top ranking leaders only address the company as a whole a few times each year, which limits the perceived frequency of interactions. 2: Lack of social support The lack of social support at the “top” is twofold: those at the top are not often provided with sufficient support, and they are hesitant to ask for support. Top performers are often in leadership roles and expected to provide support to their subordinates, but who provides support to their leaders in return? Additionally, top performers naturally have more eyes on them, and this may cause top performers to refrain from exposing any side of themselves that could point to anything less than perfection. They may feel “the need to pretend.” Leaders are encouraged to “be authentic,” but that encouragement presents an additional danger. If they reveal too much and are too authentic, they risk losing others’ approval and lowering other people’s confidence in their leadership. The “authenticity paradox” is another pressure added to the leader’s plate, and the “surface acting” that occurs as a result can lead to abusive management. Additionally, Dr. Julie Gurner has shared that oftentimes, the “Ultra Successful” receive very little sympathy from those who have not shared their success. Their problems may be viewed as “superficial and arbitrary.” 3: Trust issues Kelly Oubre Jr., an NBA player, said, “you never know what someone may try to get from you.” Those who have achieved immense amounts of success may suffer from loneliness because their success is so great that it’s difficult to know when someone has ulterior motives. In a similar vein, CEOs may also face the same stressful analysis: Does this person truly care about me, or are they just hoping for a raise, a promotion, or to be my replacement? The Consequences of Loneliness Loneliness decreases the effectiveness of sleep – for example, lonely people have a higher likelihood of experiencing sleep fragmentation and waking up tired. In turn, this also weakens the immune system. In fact, loneliness increases the chances of early death by 20%. Additionally, Harvard Business Review’s CEO Snapshot Survey™ revealed that 50% CEOs report experiencing feelings of loneliness, and 61% of them believe it hinders their performance. The surface acting that leaders may utilize to maintain their image eats into their emotional reserves, which makes them more likely to lash out at others. It has also been shown to bleed into their personal lives as well through “bodily aches, burnout, insomnia, and drinking heavily.” Ways to Combat Loneliness Loneliness is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed of. In fact, ¼ of the population is experiencing loneliness. Loneliness can actually be a positive feeling because it pushes us toward the “nourishment of human companionship.” It is not a “personality defect or sign of weakness.” The need to belong is not just a human need – it is actually “the most fundamental social need.” Humans can fulfill this social need if they partake in (1) “frequent and pleasant” interactions with a few others and (2) these interactions are in “temporal stability and mutually affective concern.” In practice, this could look like a few things: 1. Build your challenge network: Dr. Adam Grant uses this phrase to describe your network of people who give you constructive criticism and challenge you as a way of supporting you. These people are your go-tos for honest guidance. 2. Write thank you notes: Dr. Julie Gurner shared on her X account that she writes one thank you note per month to keep herself grateful. Emotionally, these are also great reminders of the people who are in your circle who support you. These thank you notes will be a gift to the people in your life, and be a great reminder to you that you are not alone. 3. Hire a coach or a therapist: A paid professional can support you in several ways – they can help you through tough times, be your champion, and give you an edge. Undivided attention is a rare experience in modern society. 4. Be intentional about building your circle: According to Professor Cacioppo, having a “confidant” can help you combat feelings of loneliness. A coach or a therapist is better than no one, but in order to reach maximum effectiveness, there needs to be “mutual aided protection” – for example, two best friends, a healthy spousal relationship, etc. 5. Identity delineation: Dr. Julie Gurner has used the metaphor of a table to describe how people should think about their jobs. When a table has 4 legs, it is still able to stand if 1 is kicked down. Rather than thinking of your job as the only thing that creates you as a person, she recommends thinking of it as just 1 of 4 legs. This separation of the role and the person can help you think of yourself as a full person – one who is multifaceted, nuanced, and surrounded by opportunities, people, and possibilities. There is a common theme to the above solutions: all of them involve inviting either 1) more people into your life or 2) better people into your life. In fact, Forbes contributor, Kumar Mehta, wrote, “It’s never lonely at the top (because no one gets there alone).” If you’re in a lonely slump, I hope this article was an encouragement to you. Remember: you are not alone, loneliness is curable, and loneliness is temporary. “And like the moon, we must go through phases of emptiness to feel full again.” – Sources: Harvard Business Review: “It’s Time to Acknowledge CEO Loneliness” by Thomas J. Saporito Harvard Business Review: “The Emotional Labor of Being a Leader” by Dina Denham Smith and Alicia A. Grandey Forbes: “It’s Never Lonely At The Top (Because No One Gets There Alone)” by Kumar Mehta Journal of Applied Psychology: “Out of control: A self-control perspective on the link between surface acting and abusive supervision.” by Yam, K. C., Fehr, R., Keng-Highberger, F. T., Klotz, A. C., & Reynolds, S. J. The University of Chicago Magazine: “The Nature of Loneliness” by Lydialyle Gibson The Guardian: “Loneliness Is Like An Iceberg” Interview with Tim Adams and John Cacioppo The Guardian: “Money, Social Media, and Trust Issues: Why Loneliness Stalks the NBA” by Jacob Uitti Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies: “Lonely at the Top: How Do Senior Leaders Navigate the Need to Belong?” by Jessy Zumaeta

In the ever-evolving landscape of women's sports, certain athletes rise not only for their prowess on the field but for their ability to transcend traditional boundaries, challenge norms, and ignite cultural change. Ilona Maher, a standout rugby player for the USA Women's Sevens team, is one such figure. Through her fierce athleticism, unapologetic personality, and savvy use of social media, Maher is spearheading a new era in women's sports—one that embraces authenticity, body positivity, and resilience. Breaking Stereotypes in Women's Rugby Rugby, often perceived as a male-dominated sport, requires an exceptional blend of strength, speed, and strategic thinking. Ilona Maher embodies these qualities, smashing through stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a female athlete. Standing at 5'10" and with a commanding presence on the field, she challenges outdated notions that women’s sports are less intense or less demanding than men’s. Maher's physicality and skill prove that women can not only compete but excel in sports traditionally associated with masculinity. Her impact extends beyond just playing the game. By competing at the highest levels of international rugby and consistently pushing her limits, Maher is sending a powerful message to young female athletes: There is no "too strong," "too tough," or "too bold" for women in sports. Her success is paving the way for more girls and women to pursue sports like rugby, breaking down barriers that once limited participation. Embracing Authenticity and Body Positivity Ilona Maher’s influence isn’t confined to her on-field performances. Off the field, she’s using her platform to champion body positivity and authenticity in a world that often pressures women to conform to unrealistic standards. Through her candid and humorous social media presence, Maher encourages her followers to embrace their true selves, imperfections and all. In a society where female athletes are frequently judged not just for their skills but also for their appearance, Maher’s openness about her body image struggles and her journey to self-acceptance is revolutionary. She challenges the idea that female athletes need to fit a particular mold to be successful or admired. Instead, she advocates for the celebration of all body types, particularly those that break the traditional mold of femininity. By sharing her personal experiences and maintaining a genuine connection with her audience, Maher is helping to shift the narrative around women’s bodies in sports. Her influence encourages a new generation of female athletes to prioritize strength, health, and self-love over societal expectations. Social Media as a Tool for Change Ilona Maher’s rise in the public eye coincided with the explosion of social media, a platform she has leveraged masterfully. Unlike many athletes who keep their social media presence polished and professional, Maher embraces a more relatable, down-to-earth approach. Her TikTok videos, often infused with humor and authenticity, give fans a glimpse into the life of an elite athlete—warts and all. Through her candid content, Maher is dismantling the myth of the “perfect” athlete. She shares the highs and lows, from the thrill of victory to the grind of training and the sting of defeat. This transparency not only makes her more relatable but also humanizes the challenges that all athletes face, regardless of their level of fame or success. Her social media presence is also a powerful tool for advocacy. By discussing issues like mental health, gender equality, and the importance of self-care, Maher is using her platform to raise awareness and drive conversation on topics that are often overlooked in the world of sports. Her influence extends beyond her sport, making her a role model for anyone striving to make a difference, whether on the field or off. Changing the Culture of Women's Sports Ilona Maher is more than just a rugby player; she’s a cultural trailblazer in women’s sports. Her impact is multifaceted: she’s challenging gender norms, promoting body positivity, and using her platform to advocate for important social issues. By doing so, Maher is contributing to a broader shift in how women’s sports are perceived and valued. In a world where female athletes are often expected to fit a narrow definition of femininity and success, Maher stands out as a beacon of change. She represents a future where women in sports are free to be themselves—strong, bold, and unapologetically authentic. As more athletes follow in her footsteps, the culture of women’s sports will continue to evolve, becoming more inclusive, diverse, and empowering. Ilona Maher’s legacy will not just be measured in wins and medals, but in the lives she’s touched and the barriers she’s helped to break down. She’s a reminder that true change in sports—and society—comes from those who dare to challenge the status quo and embrace their authentic selves, both on and off the field.