Leading my change from within: an exploration of self-talk, self-compassion, self-awareness, and leadership

This action-oriented thesis explored the question, “How might gaining more awareness of my daily self-talk, and treating myself with compassion, help me gain more confidence as an individual and leader?” Applying a first-person action research methodology, I utilized arts-based methods (collage and self-compassion letter) and daily reflexive journaling for 6 weeks. To gain a deeper perspective, I engaged in one-on-one coaching sessions with an arts-based research coach and a self-compassion teacher and focused sessions with two inquiry partners to explore emerging themes and personal insights. This study found individuals and leaders may be more effective and confident when they practise self-compassion, enhance self-talk awareness, and consider their impact on others. Findings included the importance of relationships, impact of ingrained beliefs on self-perception, the choice in change, and detaching from ingrained beliefs by tapping into creativity and play. Recommendations for individual and leadership practice and organizational implications arose from this study. Keywords: first-person action research; leadership; confidence; self-compassion; self-talk awareness; change

Author dc:creator

• Dunlop, Rebecca

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• DuBois-Wing, Gwen

Identifier URI

http://dx.doi.org/10.25316/IR-19109

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.viurrspace.ca/server/oai/request?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=dim&identifier=oai%3Anull%3A10613%2F27421