Episodes

  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Araceli Higueras.

    The main points include:

    Strategies to combat "analysis paralysis" by adjusting thought processes over gathering excessive information.The significance of personal connections, trust, autonomy, and creative input in achieving workplace happiness.Respecting individual career goals and understanding the different phases in one's career journey.Techniques to uncover personal career aspirations through reflection and values exercises.Benefits of group workshops that focus on self-awareness, networking, and strategic goal setting.The importance of lifelong learning and integrating new skills, as personal growth contributes to career satisfaction.Encouragement for broadening career perspectives to include lateral moves and personal ventures.Ara's balanced approach to exploring multiple income streams and integrating career with personal life.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Ara

    LinkedIn

    Instagram

    Ara's Book

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 42: Casey Ryals on Leading Yourself First

  • How can you overcome "analysis paralysis" and empower yourself with self-leadership?

    In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I sat down with Araceli Higueras, a seasoned coach and business professional, to delve into the world of decision-making and self-leadership. Ara shares her unique approach to circumventing "analysis paralysis" by encouraging individuals to evolve their thought processes, rather than seeking exhaustive information before acting. We explore the pivotal role of values in decision-making and how fostering personal connections, trust, and creative autonomy can lead to greater happiness at work.

    Throughout our discussion, Ara emphasises respecting the multifaceted nature of life and career ambitions. She introduces techniques to help individuals discover what they truly want, facilitating workshops that are rich in group learning and accountability. 

    This episode offers an enlightening perspective on self-empowerment and the transformative power of aligning professional ventures with personal fulfillment.

    The main points include:

    Strategies to combat "analysis paralysis" by adjusting thought processes over gathering excessive information.The significance of personal connections, trust, autonomy, and creative input in achieving workplace happiness.Respecting individual career goals and understanding the different phases in one's career journey.Techniques to uncover personal career aspirations through reflection and values exercises.Benefits of group workshops that focus on self-awareness, networking, and strategic goal setting.The importance of lifelong learning and integrating new skills, as personal growth contributes to career satisfaction.Encouragement for broadening career perspectives to include lateral moves and personal ventures.Ara's balanced approach to exploring multiple income streams and integrating career with personal life.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Ara

    LinkedIn

    Instagram

    Ara's Book

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 42: Casey Ryals on Leading Yourself First

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  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Maggie Jackson.

    The main points include:

    Understanding the two main types of uncertainty: aleatory (external) and epistemic (internal).How uncertainty, dubbed "wisdom in motion," can enhance focus and receptiveness.Embracing uncertainty for strategic advantage in high-stakes situations.Encouraging a questioning mindset within teams to drive innovation.Improving tolerance for uncertainty through simple, everyday exercises.Leadership strategies for leveraging uncertainty productively.Highlighting the significance of individual differences in tolerance for uncertainty.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Maggie

    Website

    LinkedIn

    Maggie’s Book

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham

  • Are you ready to harness the power of uncertainty for success?

    In this captivating episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had a thought-provoking conversation with Maggie Jackson, an accomplished journalist and author. Maggie delves into her exploration of uncertainty, offering a compelling perspective on how embracing the unknown can lead to growth and innovation both in the workplace and beyond. With her insights, she challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the dynamic advantages of uncertainty as a driver for cognitive improvement, strategic flexibility, and progressive leadership.

    Maggie distinguishes between different types of uncertainty and explains how leaders and teams can leverage this often misunderstood concept to enhance decision-making, communication, and adaptability. She provides both theoretical insights and practical examples, revealing that uncertainty, when wielded effectively, fosters a collaborative environment that is ripe for creativity and productivity.

    The main points include:

    Understanding the two main types of uncertainty: aleatory (external) and epistemic (internal).How uncertainty, dubbed "wisdom in motion," can enhance focus and receptiveness.Embracing uncertainty for strategic advantage in high-stakes situations.Encouraging a questioning mindset within teams to drive innovation.Improving tolerance for uncertainty through simple, everyday exercises.Leadership strategies for leveraging uncertainty productively.Highlighting the significance of individual differences in tolerance for uncertainty.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Maggie

    Website

    LinkedIn

    Maggie’s Book

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham

  • In this latest solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I delve deep into the challenges of career management and development. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, I discuss everything from feeling bored and unchallenged to dealing with toxic bosses and mismatches in your career.

    If you're seeking ways to overcome career stagnation and engage more passionately with your work, this episode is definitely for you.

    I talk about personal stories and practical strategies to help you identify the root causes of career stagnation and suggest steps you can take to reignite your career momentum. With a focus on understanding your own values, strengths, and goals, this episode is a timely guide for anyone considering a career refresh as the new year approaches.

    The main points:

    Understanding the feelings and signs of being stuck in your career.Strategies for reassessing your values, skills, and alignment with your role.Exploring options for pivoting within or outside your current organisation.The importance of investing in yourself through skills development, coaching, or mentorship.Building a supportive network to discover new opportunities and gain insights.Taking small, low-risk steps to build confidence and momentum.Creating an actionable career plan to set clear goals and commit to your professional journey.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 82: Creating a Better Workday with Niamh Brady

    Episode 234: From Overwhelm to Intentional Fulfilment with Cherylanne Skolnicki

  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Cherylanne Skolnicki.

    The main points include:

    The correlation between personality types and emotional barriers like guilt, FOMO, judgment, and control.The concept of reframing "have to do" tasks as "get to do" ones for empowerment.The metaphor of daily tasks as a "conveyor belt" and the power of choosing them as a "buffet."The significance of self-awareness in aligning life choices with personal values.The need to manage emotions to maintain momentum and prevent being overwhelmed.Emphasising balance as a mix of tasks rather than merely achieving work-life equilibrium.The courage required to articulate and pursue one's authentic desires free from societal expectations.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Cherylanne

    Facebook

    Personal Instagram

    Company Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 202: Leveraging Strengths and Setting Boundaries with Lucy Gernon

  • Are you ready to redefine your work-life balance and live authentically?

    In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I engaged in a compelling discussion with Cherylanne Skolnicki, founder and leader of Brilliant Balance. Cherylanne, a seasoned proponent for empowering professional women, delves deep into the complexities of balancing work and life. She shares insights into personality types and their relation to emotional barriers like guilt, FOMO, and control, offering a fresh perspective on achieving a full and fulfilling life. 

    The episode underscores the importance of aligning daily actions with personal priorities and values, encouraging listeners to view life changes as experiments that can lead to true happiness both in and out of the workplace.

    The main points include:

    The correlation between personality types and emotional barriers like guilt, FOMO, judgment, and control.The concept of reframing "have to do" tasks as "get to do" ones for empowerment.The metaphor of daily tasks as a "conveyor belt" and the power of choosing them as a "buffet."The significance of self-awareness in aligning life choices with personal values.The need to manage emotions to maintain momentum and prevent being overwhelmed.Emphasising balance as a mix of tasks rather than merely achieving work-life equilibrium.The courage required to articulate and pursue one's authentic desires free from societal expectations.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Cherylanne

    Facebook

    Personal Instagram

    Company Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 202: Leveraging Strengths and Setting Boundaries with Lucy Gernon

  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Marijke Kershaw.

    The main points include:

    Using the Thriving Index for self-awareness and leveraging strengths at work.How the Thriving Index supports organisations in high potential identification and succession planning.The power of recognising and integrating personal "signature strengths" and managing "allowable weaknesses. Marijke's insights on job crafting to align work roles with one’s innate strengths.Strategies for succession planning using "critical role scoring" and creating "success profiles."

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Marijke

    Website

    LinkedIn

    Company LinkedIn

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 104: The Managers Dilema with Irial O’Farrell

    Episode 177: Leveraging Transferable Skills for Career Success with Janine Esbrand

    Episode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’Brien

  • How can you leverage individual strengths in your organisation for team success?

    In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I have a dynamic discussion with seasoned learning and development consultant, Marijke Kershaw. Marijke delves into the Thriving Index, a groundbreaking tool t hat leverages self-awareness of strengths within the workplace. This tool is not only a game-changer for individual growth but also helps teams unlock their collaborative potential by identifying and harmonising strengths. The conversation spans succession planning, the art of job crafting, and a fresh perspective on personal development—all aimed at fostering a work environment where individuals and organisations thrive.

    The main points include:

    Using the Thriving Index for self-awareness and leveraging strengths at work.How the Thriving Index supports organisations in high potential identification and succession planning.The power of recognising and integrating personal "signature strengths" and managing "allowable weaknesses. Marijke's insights on job crafting to align work roles with one’s innate strengths.Strategies for succession planning using "critical role scoring" and creating "success profiles."

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Marijke

    Website

    LinkedIn

    Company LinkedIn

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 104: The Managers Dilema with Irial O’Farrell

    Episode 177: Leveraging Transferable Skills for Career Success with Janine Esbrand

    Episode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’Brien

  • Are you navigating the complex RTO landscape and seeking to optimise your workplace for happier and more productive employees?

    In today's solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I delve into the ongoing RTO (Return to Office) debate, exploring what it means for leaders and their teams. I provide valuable insights into weighing the pros and cons of returning to the office vs. embracing remote or hybrid models. With my experience in professional services, I encourage leaders to tailor your approaches based on unique organisational cultures and employee preferences, rather than imitating others. Highlighting significant aspects like autonomy, workplace culture, and talent attraction, this episode offers a strategic roadmap for leaders dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

    The main points include:

    Understanding the benefits and challenges of RTO, including collaboration and workplace culture.Evaluating productivity in remote vs. office settings.The importance of aligning employee needs with organisational culture.Exploring personal preferences and career impacts when choosing work models.Leadership strategies for listening to and addressing employee preferences.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Sign up to my newsletter here: https://happieratwork.kit.com/87c84e0c06

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 70: The Future of Hybrid Remote Working with Jennifer Dowling

    Episode 82: Creating a Better Workday with Niamh Brady

    Episode 123: The Future of Work: The Remote and Hybrid road with Aoife O’Brien

    Episode 207: Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership with Robert Baker

  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Carol Mannion.

    The main points:

    The significance of creatively directing organisational resources for optimal outcomes.The impact of individual actions in driving broader sustainable change within organisations.Exploring the shift from profit-driven mindsets to a more holistic, sustainable approach.Understanding sustainability through the "people, planet, profit" framework and striving for long-term goals.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Carol

    Email

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Website

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 193: Nurturing Workplace Culture Lessons in Human-Centred Leadership with Kate Jones

  • How can you balance profit and sustainability in your organisation?

    In the latest  episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I was joined by Carol Mannion, a seasoned learning and development consultant, to explore the intricacies of sustainability within corporate functions. Carol delves into the art of resource management, emphasising the need to creatively optimise efforts and budgets for enhanced outcomes. Our discussion sheds light on the transformative power of achieving a state of flow at work, where challenge meets capability, fostering both engagement and motivation. We also explore the broader conversation around sustainability, ESG, and the pivotal role of leadership in modeling sustainable behaviors.

    Carol defines happiness at work through engagement and motivation brought on by balanced challenges. She discusses the role of leaders in influencing organisational culture and sustainability practices.

    An introduction to sustainability reporting standards and the importance of genuine improvements beyond certifications.

    Carol provides encouragement for self-awareness and personal development as tools for achieving sustainability objectives.

    The main points:

    The significance of creatively directing organisational resources for optimal outcomes.The impact of individual actions in driving broader sustainable change within organisations.Exploring the shift from profit-driven mindsets to a more holistic, sustainable approach.Understanding sustainability through the "people, planet, profit" framework and striving for long-term goals.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Carol

    Email

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Website

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 193: Nurturing Workplace Culture Lessons in Human-Centred Leadership with Kate Jones

  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Erica Anderson Rooney.

    The main points:

    Challenges women face in toxic work environments and promoting mental health.Significance of financial independence and planning for transitions.Overcoming people-pleasing, perfectionism, and the journey to authenticity.Introduction to "sticky floors" and recognizing self-imposed barriers.The influence of appearance and societal norms in professional settings.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Erica

    Website

    LinkedIn

    Instagram

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Erica’s Podcast

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 202: Leveraging Strengths and Setting Boundaries with Lucy Gernon 

    Episode 223: Imposter Syndrome - The Invisible Barrier to Workplace Success

    Episode 227: Building Confidence and Courage at Work with Ellen Taaffe

  • Do you want to break free from professional limitations and discover your true worth?

    In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, we dive into an empowering conversation with Erica Anderson Rooney, an inspiring speaker and author. Erica opens up about the challenges faced by women in toxic work environments, while sharing personal stories of breaking free from people-pleasing and perfectionism to embrace authenticity and growth.

    Together, we explore the importance of mental health, financial independence, and being deliberate about our career paths to find happiness at work. Erica also introduces the concept of "sticky floors" and how recognising these self-imposed limitations can drive change. This episode is a compelling reminder of recognising our inherent value, overcoming societal barriers, and supporting one another's journeys to the top.

    Erica emphasises the importance of knowing your worth and addressing undervaluation in women. She believes there is power in vulnerability, seeking help, and building a supportive network. In this episode, Erica gives us an insight into her own personal journey towards self-acceptance and overcoming limiting beliefs.

    The main points:

    Challenges women face in toxic work environments and promoting mental health.Significance of financial independence and planning for transitions.Overcoming people-pleasing, perfectionism, and the journey to authenticity.Introduction to "sticky floors" and recognizing self-imposed barriers.The influence of appearance and societal norms in professional settings.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Erica

    Website

    LinkedIn

    Instagram

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Erica’s Podcast

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 202: Leveraging Strengths and Setting Boundaries with Lucy Gernon 

    Episode 223: Imposter Syndrome - The Invisible Barrier to Workplace Success

    Episode 227: Building Confidence and Courage at Work with Ellen Taaffe

  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Aaron Doyle during our live recording of the podcast.

    The main points:

    The impact of cultural misalignment and the disruption caused by toxic individuals in the workplace.The pivotal role of managers in understanding and addressing employee concerns through one-on-one conversations.The significance of flexible working arrangements and focusing on output rather than input for employee motivation.The importance of aligning career roles with personal and organizational values for job satisfaction.Strategies for creating psychologically safe environments where respect, integrity, and authenticity are the norm.

    This live recording of the podcast was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who came to the event, and to all of you, our listeners, because without you, events like this would not be possible.

    Make sure to keep up to date with the podcast and make sure you are following us on social media, so you don’t miss another event like this one.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Aaron

    LinkedIn

    Website

    Instagram

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 210: How can you lead with empathy and work to your strengths with Jacqui Jagger

    Episode 218: How can you improve happiness and trust at work with Matt Phelan

  • How can you navigate the complexities of workplace culture and find true job satisfaction?

    In this special episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I sat down with Director of People Operations at Johnson Hana Aaron Doyle, in front of our first live studio audience! We explored the intricacies of cultural alignment within the workplace. We delved into the essence of a positive company culture, emphasising authenticity, respect, and integrity as foundational values that drive employee engagement and satisfaction.

    Aaron shares his insights on navigating cultural misalignment, the importance of understanding personal and organisational values, and how to foster an environment where trust and autonomy prevail. Aoife reflects on her own experiences with workplace culture, underlining the impact of unfulfilled promises and the significance of aligning roles with personal strengths. Together, they advocate for clear communication, respect, and psychological safety as cornerstones of a thriving workplace.

    The main points:

    The impact of cultural misalignment and the disruption caused by toxic individuals in the workplace.The pivotal role of managers in understanding and addressing employee concerns through one-on-one conversations.The significance of flexible working arrangements and focusing on output rather than input for employee motivation.The importance of aligning career roles with personal and organizational values for job satisfaction.Strategies for creating psychologically safe environments where respect, integrity, and authenticity are the norm.

    This live recording of the podcast was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who came to the event, and to all of you, our listeners, because without you, events like this would not be possible.

    Make sure to keep up to date with the podcast and make sure you are following us on social media, so you don’t miss another event like this one.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Aaron

    LinkedIn

    Website

    Instagram

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 210: How can you lead with empathy and work to your strengths with Jacqui Jagger

    Episode 218: How can you improve happiness and trust at work with Matt Phelan

    https://happieratwork.ie/210-how-can-you-lead-with-empathy-and-work-to-your-strengths-with-jacqui-jagger/

  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Julie Pham.

    The main points:

    The importance of authentic curiosity in conversations.The role of psychological safety at work.The need for vulnerability in sharing personal experiences to foster deeper understanding.Think not just about "what success looks like" but "what success feels like". 

    Embracing curiosity is a powerful step toward enhancing your work-life happiness. Tune in to this episode for actionable insights that could revolutionise your approach at work.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Julie

    Julie's TedX Talk

    Book Website

    Julie's LinkedIn

    CuriosityBased LinkedIn

    Youtube

    Website

    Julie's Instagram

    CuriosityBased Instagram

    Facebook

    TikTok

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 194: The power of curiosity unleashing team potential at work with Darrin Tulley.

    Episode 158: Building an effective communication strategy with internal communications expert Joanna Parsons.

  • Do you want to enhance curiosity and communication at work?

    In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast I had such an insightful conversation with Julie Pham, founder and head of CuriosityBased. Dive into the world of curiosity with us and discover how it can transform your work environment into a happier, more fulfilling space.

    Julie delves into the importance of authentic curiosity in conversations, cautioning against performative curiosity. She reminds us that genuine curiosity is essential for meaningful exchanges, fostering an environment where learning and question-asking feel safe.

    We explored the role of psychological safety at work, where curiosity is encouraged. Julie emphasises that being happier at work means having the freedom to learn, embrace uncertainty, and mutually benefit within a learning organisation.

    Julie shares her framework for nurturing curiosity through self-awareness, relationship building, and clear communication. She highlights the need for vulnerability in sharing personal experiences to foster deeper understanding.

    We reflect on societal definitions of success with Julie’s personal story of redefining success. She challenges us to think not just about "what success looks like" but "what success feels like," aligning our goals with both visual and emotional experiences.

    The main points:

    The importance of authentic curiosity in conversations.The role of psychological safety at work.The need for vulnerability in sharing personal experiences to foster deeper understanding.Think not just about "what success looks like" but "what success feels like". 

    Embracing curiosity is a powerful step toward enhancing your work-life happiness. Tune in to this episode for actionable insights that could revolutionise your approach at work.

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Julie

    Julie's TedX Talk

    Book Website

    Julie's LinkedIn

    CuriosityBased LinkedIn

    Youtube

    Website

    Julie's Instagram

    CuriosityBased Instagram

    Facebook

    TikTok

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 194: The power of curiosity unleashing team potential at work with Darrin Tulley.

  • This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Ellen Taaffe.

    The main points:

    How perfectionism and people pleasing can lead to being viewed merely as a "worker bee" and holding back from leadership opportunities.It's essential to balance preparation with timely action.While building strong relationships is vital, it should not come at the expense of your personal needs and boundaries.The importance of building networks, seeking feedback, and advocating for oneself as strongly as for others. 

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Ellen

    Ellen’s Book

    LinkedIn

    Website

    Instagram

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’Brien

    Take Radical Responsibility of your Career with Carla Miller

    Episode 219: How to Encourage Women Leaders to Speak up with Carla Miller

  • How can you overcome perfectionism and people pleasing at work?

    In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I sat down with the extraordinary Ellen Taaffe to delve deep into the intricacies of women's leadership and personal growth. Ellen, with her vast experience spanning a 25-year corporate career, board memberships, and her current teaching role at Kellogg School of Management, brings a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights to the table.

    Ellen introduces the pivotal mindset shift from "Who am I to do this?" to "Why not me?". She outlines five strategies to overcome the barriers that hold women back. These include preparing to perfection and eagerly pleasing.

    During the episode, Ellen also discusses the challenges posed by perfectionism and the tendency to eagerly please others. She shares insights on how these can lead to being viewed merely as a "worker bee" and holding back from leadership opportunities.

    Ellen’s work at the Kellogg School of Management emphasises the need for community and support among women. Ellen's research and teaching help bridge gaps specific to women in the workplace, addressing challenges like negotiating raises and overcoming biases.

    Ellen’s book, "The Mirror Door: Breakthrough the Hidden Barrier That Locks Successful Women in Place," celebrates its one-year anniversary and has received multiple awards. It explores how self-reflection and internal doubts can prevent women from advancing and emphasises the importance of courage over confidence.

    The main points:

    How perfectionism and people pleasing can lead to being viewed merely as a "worker bee" and holding back from leadership opportunities.It's essential to balance preparation with timely action.While building strong relationships is vital, it should not come at the expense of your personal needs and boundaries.The importance of building networks, seeking feedback, and advocating for oneself as strongly as for others. 

    Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!

    Connect with Ellen

    Ellen’s Book

    LinkedIn

    Website

    Instagram

    Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:

    Website

    LinkedIn 

    YouTube

    Previous Episodes:

    Episode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’Brien

    Take Radical Responsibility of your Career with Carla Miller

    Episode 219: How to Encourage Women Leaders to Speak up with Carla Miller