In this conversation, Erin speaks with Tara Paton, a team effectiveness consultant and personal success coach, Tara shares her experience of transitioning from a non-empathic leader to someone who had to flex her empathy muscle during a challenging time. She discusses the importance of self-awareness, setting boundaries, and practicing self-recovery to avoid burnout. Tara emphasizes the need to hold space for others without taking on their stress and the value of clear communication in leadership. She also highlights the benefits of empathy in building better relationships and becoming a more effective leader.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Flexing the empathy muscle is a valuable skill for leaders, even if they don’t naturally identify as empathic.
• Setting boundaries and practicing self-recovery are essential to avoid burnout when providing empathy and support to others.
• Clear communication and holding space for others without taking on their stress are key aspects of effective leadership.
• Self-awareness and understanding one’s own preferences and biases are crucial in building empathy and better relationships.
• Empathy is about being present and listening, rather than trying to fix problems.

Connect with Tara Paton:

• Website: https://redblazesolutions.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taralpaton/

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca
• Inside Out Empathy: www.erinthorp.ca/insideout
• Freebie: 5 Practices to Build Empathy Skills