Unstuck & Unstoppable

Are you doing everything “right”- sleeping, exercising, pushing through your workload yet still feeling drained?In this episode, Sarah challenges the way we think about rest. For high-performing female leaders, exhaustion isn’t always about doing too much - it’s often about recovering in the wrong way.You’ll learn why traditional ideas of rest fall short, and how to restore your energy more effectively using seven powerful (and often overlooked) types of rest.What You’ll LearnWhy sleep alone isn’t enough to restore your energyThe hidden reason high performers still feel exhaustedThe 7 types of rest and how to recognise what you’re missingSimple, practical ways to build recovery into your working dayWhy rest isn’t a reward - it’s essential maintenance for performanceTimestamps00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable 01:00 – Why rest needs a rethink for high performers 02:00 – Energy check: where are you right now? 03:00 – The real problem: under-rested, not burned out 03:30 – Default habits: pushing through, scrolling, switching off 05:00 – Why high performers struggle with recovery05:30 – Mental rest: calming an overactive mind 06:30 – Physical rest: micro-recovery during the day 07:30 – Emotional rest: managing the invisible load08:30 – Reflection: which type of rest are you missing?09:00 – Social rest: balancing interaction and energy 10:00 – Sensory rest: reducing constant stimulation 11:30 – Creative rest: bringing in new input 12:30 – Spiritual rest: reconnecting with meaning and values13:00 – Personal example: using values to shift energy14:00 – Why rest is not a reward but maintenance 14:30 – Client story: rebuilding energy after promotion 15:00 – How to choose the one type of rest to focus on15:30 – Final thoughts and next stepsKey TakeawayYou don’t need to push harder - you need to recover better.When you identify the right type of rest your body and mind need, everything from your energy to your confidence and performance becomes easier.Want more ideas for each type of rest? Send Sarah a message for her free guideRequest the Emotions Wheel to help you better identify and process how you feelUseful LinksSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

In this episode, Sarah breaks down how executive recruiters actually operate - and why the typical “send your CV and wait” approach doesn’t work at a senior level. If you’re aiming for leadership roles, you’ll learn how to position yourself strategically, build strong recruiter relationships, and stand out as a credible, low-risk candidate.What You’ll LearnThe biggest misconception about executive recruitersHow recruiters assess senior candidatesWhy positioning matters more than your CV5 practical ways to work with recruiters effectivelyHow to make recruiters a powerful part of your job search strategyTimestamps[00:00] Welcome & podcast introduction [01:00] Global reach milestone + episode overview [02:00] Client story: feeling stuck and overlooked by recruiters [03:00] The biggest misconception about recruiters [04:00] Why a passive job search strategy fails [05:00] Case study: shifting positioning and strategy [06:00] How executive recruiters actually think [07:00] What makes you “easy to place” [07:30] 5 practical strategies to work with recruiters [07:30] 1. Be specific about what you want [08:00] 2. Lead with value, not your CV [08:30] 3. Build relationships, not transactions [09:00] 4. Prepare properly for recruiter conversations [09:30] 5. Don’t rely on recruiters alone [10:00] The mindset shift: recruiters are part of your strategy [11:00] Final thoughts + how to get supportKey TakeawayRecruiters don’t find you a job - you position yourself so they can confidently place you. When you get clear, strategic, and visible, they become valuable allies rather than a frustrating dead end.Useful LinksSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

Have you ever felt like you're doing everything right in your leadership role - delivering results, working hard, supporting your team - yet still being overlooked for promotion?In this episode, Sarah lifts the lid on the unwritten rules of leadership that shape career progression at senior levels. Many ambitious female leaders are told that hard work and strong performance will naturally lead to advancement but in reality, leadership decisions are often influenced by visibility, relationships, strategic thinking, and perception.Through a powerful coaching story and practical reflection questions, this episode explores why brilliant women sometimes get passed over and, more importantly, what they can do differently to position themselves for the leadership roles they deserve.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy working hard isn’t always enough to get promotedThe hidden leadership dynamics many organisations don’t talk aboutThe 4 unwritten rules that shape career advancementHow visibility, relationships, and perception influence leadership decisionsPractical actions you can take this week to position yourself for your next roleTimestamps00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck & Unstoppable 01:00 – Episode introduction: The leadership rules nobody talks about02:00 – Coaching story: “It feels like there’s a game being played and nobody told me the rules” A real-life example of a senior female leader being overlooked for promotion.03:30 – The myth of hard work leading to promotion Why performance alone doesn’t guarantee career advancement.05:00 – Leadership advancement is about more than delivery Understanding the gap between doing a great job and being seen as ready for senior leadership.The 4 Unwritten Rules of Leadership05:45 – Rule 1: Visibility matters more than effort Why leaders can’t promote what they can’t see and how to create strategic visibility. Reflection question: Where might you be working hard but staying invisible?08:00 – Rule 2: Relationships shape opportunities The importance of networks, sponsors, and trust in career progression. Reflection question: Who are the key people who need to know and trust you?10:00 – Rule 3: Strategic thinking gets rewarded Moving from operational excellence to future-focused leadership thinking. Reflection question: Are you spending most of your time delivering or thinking about the future?11:45 – Rule 4: Perception drives promotion How executive presence and leadership perception influence decisions. Reflection question: How do senior leaders currently perceive you?13:00 – One practical action to take this week Choose one conversation with a senior leader to increase visibility, influence, or strategic contribution.14:00 – Key takeaway: Understand the system and position yourself within it Visibility, relationships, strategic thinking, and perception are the keys to leadership advancement.14:30 – How to get support and access free resources Information on coaching support and additional resources.Useful LinksEpisode 66 Strengthening Your Strategic ThinkingEpisode 31 How to Develop Executive PresenceSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.ukShine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable.

Have you been in your role for five years or more? Are you there because you love it… or because you feel a bit stuck?In this episode, Sarah unpacks the difference between healthy staying and career stagnation, the subtle signs you might be stuck (even if things look “fine” on the surface), and practical steps to help you regain momentum, confidence, and clarity in your career.If you’ve been questioning your next move or avoiding the question altogether - this episode will give you a powerful reset.Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome & Podcast Overview[00:01:00] Why This Topic Matters A real client story sparks the question: are you staying because you’re thriving or stuck?[00:02:00] The Big Question: Why Have You Stayed? Exploring the difference between loving your role and feeling unable to leave.[00:02:30] What “Healthy Staying” Looks LikeOngoing learning and developmentExpanding influence and impactIncreasing responsibility and stretchFeeling energised and engaged at work[00:04:00] When Staying Becomes StagnationRepetitive work with no growthLack of progression opportunitiesDeclining confidenceComfort replacing challenge[00:06:00] The Hidden Risk of Being Too Comfortable Why growth requires “optimal anxiety” (not stress, but not stagnation either).[00:07:00] 5 Signs You Might Be StuckYour learning curve has flattenedYou’ve stopped advocating for yourselfYou’re known for what you used to doYou feel invisible or overlookedYou keep saying “maybe next year”[00:08:30] Why We Stay Too LongComfort and securityEroded confidence“Golden handcuffs” (salary, flexibility, benefits)The busyness trapIdentity lock (“this is just what I do”)[00:10:30] The Real Cost of Staying Stuck How stagnation shrinks your confidence, identity, and sense of possibility.[00:11:00] 3 Ways to Get Unstuck1. Run a Career Audit: Ask yourself:What am I learning?What impact am I having?Where am I growing?2. Expand Before You ExitSeek stretch projectsIncrease your visibilityRedesign aspects of your role3. Explore New PossibilitiesInternal moves or secondmentsNew environments or industriesReimagining your career direction[00:13:30] A Personal Turning Point Why staying in the same type of senior role no longer felt inspiring and what that revealed.[00:14:00] The Wake-Up Call Question “If nothing changed in your role for the next 3 years, would you feel excited or quietly disappointed?”[00:14:30] Reflection & Next Steps Encouragement to pause, reflect, journal, and seek support if needed.[00:15:00] Closing Thoughts You don’t need to blow up your career - but you do need to wake it up.Resources & Next StepstExplore the Strategic Visibility episode for practical ways to raise your profileReach out for coaching support if you’re ready to move from stuck to unstoppableUseful LinksTake the Career Clarity Audit for personalised insightEpisode 47 How to get noticed in your careerSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

If you’re working hard but not getting the traction, visibility or progression you want, this episode will help you understand why.Sarah breaks down the four core Influence Blockers she sees repeatedly in senior female leaders - the hidden patterns that quietly limit confidence, authority, and advancement. Once you can spot your blocker, you can shift it.Timestamps[00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppabl-[02:00] Why Hard Work Isn’t Enough The unconscious patterns that hold capable women back.[03:30] The Four Influence Blockers Overview An introduction to the four key categories.[04:00] Blocker 1: Internal Confidence & Identity Second-guessing yourself, overthinking meetings, still feeling the need to prove your capability - and how this shrinks your influence.[06:00] Blocker 2: Communication & Presence Softening your message, over-explaining, speaking late in meetings, and why executive presence determines how much weight your words carry.[07:00] Blocker 3: Strategic Positioning Staying operational instead of visible at a strategic level. Why being excellent at delivery doesn’t automatically position you for promotion. (Referenced: Episode 66 on strengthening strategic thinking.)[08:30] Blocker 4: Environment & Power Dynamics Navigating dominant personalities, organisational politics, and male-dominated cultures - and how your response shapes your influence.[10:00] The Real Cost of Not Addressing Your Blocker Staying stuck, being overlooked, watching less capable peers move ahead - and the damage self-doubt can cause.[11:30] Your Action Step Identify your primary blocker and decide what action you’ll take to shift the pattern.[12:30] How to Get Support How coaching can accelerate your influence and position you for the next level.Key TakeawayInfluence blockers aren’t capability gaps - they’re patterns. And patterns can be changed.If you’re ready to stop playing small and start positioning yourself as the leader you already are, this episode will give you the clarity to begin.Useful LinksEpisode 66 Strengthening Your Strategic Thinking: From Operational to Big PictureSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

What happens when you’ve achieved the senior role, the title, the salary… and yet something still feels flat? In this episode, Sarah explores why meaning can quietly disappear as your leadership career progresses and why this isn’t a sign you’ve failed, but a signal worth paying attention to. She shares the powerful difference between achievement and fulfillment, introduces a simple but profound framework to help you reconnect with what truly matters, and explains why you don’t necessarily need to change your career to feel more meaning again.If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “Is this it?” or wondering why your work no longer energises you in the way it once did, this episode will help you pause, reflect, and take practical steps to redesign how you lead so your career feels meaningful again.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy career success doesn’t automatically lead to fulfillmentHow the “hedonic treadmill” keeps high achievers chasing the next milestoneThe four essential lenses that create meaning in leadershipWhy senior leaders often have more agency than they realisePractical questions and small actions to help you reconnect with purpose nowShow Notes01:00 – Why meaning matters more as you become more senior How career progression can sometimes lead to unexpected feelings of flatness or disconnection.02:00 – The warning signs that meaning may be missing Recognising the thoughts and emotions that signal it’s time to pause and reflect.03:00 – The hedonic treadmill explained Why promotions, pay rises, and achievements create only temporary satisfaction and keep you chasing more.05:00 – How your definition of success evolves over time Why what motivated you earlier in your career may no longer be enough.06:00 – Common struggles senior leaders share about meaning “I’m so busy I don’t have time to think.” “I’m not sure I’m on the right path.” “I can’t remember the last time I felt excited by my career.”07:00 – Introducing Eudaimonic Wellbeing The deeper form of fulfillment that comes from purpose, values, and alignment.07:45 – The Four Lenses of Meaning Framework The four key areas that determine how meaningful your leadership career feels:ImpactAlignmentAgencyGrowth08:15 – Lens 1: Impact Understanding the real difference your work makes and how reframing your impact can change everything.09:30 – Lens 2: Alignment The importance of using your strengths and working in line with your values.10:00 – Lens 3: Agency Why having choice, autonomy, and influence is essential for meaningful leadership.10:45 – Lens 4: Growth Why development and challenge still matter, even at the most senior levels.11:15 – Three powerful reflection questions Simple questions to help you identify what’s missing and what needs to change.12:00 – Small actions that can quickly restore meaning Why you don’t need to blow up your career to feel fulfilled again.13:00 – How senior leaders can recraft their role Using your leverage to redesign your work, relationships, and focus.14:00 – Success and fulfillment are not mutually exclusive How you can create a leadership career that delivers both.Meaning doesn’t disappear overnight. It fades when impact, alignment, agency, or growth are missing.Useful LinksSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

In this practical episode, Sarah explores why so many capable leaders struggle to delegate, what it’s really costing you when you don’t, and how to shift your mindset so delegation becomes a leadership strength rather than a stress point.Drawing on real client examples and her own experience as a senior leader, Sarah breaks down common delegation blocks (from perfectionism to fear of losing control), explains the difference between dumping, delegating and developing, and shares simple, effective tools you can use immediately to delegate with more confidence and impact.Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in the weeds, or worried about how delegation affects your reputation and progression, this episode will help you lead more strategically while growing your team’s capability.Show Notes [01:00] Why delegation is such a common struggle for leaders [02:00] What gets in the way of delegating (perfectionism, time, guilt and control) [04:00] Identifying your personal delegation blocks [05:00] The real costs of not delegating: burnout, bottlenecks and missed development [06:00] Client example: why delegation affects how strategic you’re perceived to be [08:00] Reframing delegation as leadership and capability-building [09:00] The three types of delegation: dumping, delegating and developing [11:00] How to tell if you’re setting someone up to succeed [12:00] A simple four-step approach to delegating well [13:00] Tools to identify what you can delegate [13:30] Start / Stop / Delegate method [14:00] Eisenhower Matrix: urgent vs important [15:00] Auditing your workload and matching tasks to team strengthsUseful LinksEpisode 9 How to Stop Being a Perfectionist at WorkSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

In this episode Sarah explores what it really means to bring your whole self to work and why authentic leadership matters more than ever in today’s uncertain and demanding world.Many female leaders feel pressure to appear strong, controlled, and “together” at all times, often at the expense of their own energy and wellbeing. Sarah challenges the outdated leadership model that equates vulnerability with weakness and instead shares evidence-based insights on how authenticity, empathy, and values-led leadership build trust, credibility, and high performance.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy authenticity at work builds trust, loyalty, and engagementHow vulnerability (done well) strengthens your leadership credibilityThe link between empathy, better decisions, and high performanceHow authenticity shapes your leadership brandWhat to do when your values don’t align with your organisation’s cultureShow Notes [01:00] Why authentic leadership feels challenging in uncertain times [02:30] The cost of wearing a “mask” at work [03:40] Why authenticity matters and what the research says [04:40] Vulnerability, trust, and connection at work [06:00] Why female leaders often struggle to show vulnerability [06:45] Case study: Creating a compassionate, high-performing culture [08:00] Takeaway #1: Vulnerability builds connection (and how to do it well) [09:45] Takeaway #2: Empathy strengthens credibility [10:45] Pairing empathy with data-driven decision making [11:45] Takeaway #3: Authenticity as the foundation of your leadership brand [12:45] When your values don’t align with your organisation [13:30] One small way to bring more of your true self to work this weekFinal ReflectionWhat is one small way you could bring more of your true self to work this week?Whether it’s sharing a story, listening more deeply, or consciously leading with one of your values, even small shifts can make a powerful difference.Useful LinksGlobal Leadership Forecast 2023 researchSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

In this first episode of 2026, Sarah introduces the powerful (and often overlooked) concept of a personal board for your leadership career. Drawing on the idea of organisational boards, Sarah explains how having the right people around you can help you make better career decisions, gain perspective, build influence, and stay motivated as a leader.You’ll learn about the different roles a personal board can play, how to identify who is already supporting you (often unconsciously), where the gaps might be, and how to intentionally build stronger, more strategic support around your career and leadership journey.In this episode, you’ll learn:What a personal board is and why it matters for female leadersThe three key categories of a personal boardThe 12 different roles people can play in supporting your careerHow one person can fulfil multiple rolesHow to identify gaps in your current support networkPractical steps to start building or strengthening your personal boardHow to approach people in a way that feels reciprocal and authenticWhy paying it forward is part of sustainable leadership successTimestamps[00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable and the purpose of the podcast[01:35] Episode 61 introduction and New Year reflections[02:00] Why creating a personal board can transform your career[03:00] What a personal board is (and how it mirrors organisational boards)[04:00] Overview of the personal board framework and key principles[05:00] The three categories of a personal board[05:30] Information roles: Inspirer, Expert, Navigator[07:00] Power and influence roles: Connector, Sponsor, Unlocker, Influencer[09:00] Development and support roles: Challenger, Improver, Cheerleader/Anchor[11:00] Real-life examples from Sarah’s leadership career[12:00] Becoming more intentional about who supports you[13:00] Identifying gaps in your personal board[14:00] Who to consider when building your board (beyond line managers)[15:00] How to approach people and make it mutually beneficial[15:45] Paying it forward and supporting others in their careers[16:30] Practical action to take this week[17:00] Final reflections and episode closeTake actionAfter listening, write down three people who already support your career or could play a role on your personal board. Reach out to one of them this week to reconnect, say thank you, or start a more intentional conversation.Useful LinksWho is in your Personal Boardroom? By Zella King & Amanda ScottSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallJoin The Love What You Do Facebook GroupConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

In this reflective end-of-year episode, Sarah guides you through a powerful Career Happiness Check-In to help you understand whether your work is truly giving you what you need. Using the Career Happiness Wheel, she walks you step-by-step through assessing where you're thriving, where you’re feeling stuck, and what small, practical actions can move the dial toward more joy, purpose, and fulfillment at work.If you’ve been feeling flat, disconnected, or simply unsure about your next step, this episode will help you reconnect with what matters and take back a sense of agency in your career. Show Notes00:00 — Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable02:00 — Why doing a career happiness check-in matters02:30 — Work takes up 92,000 hours - why it deserves attention03:00 — The importance of awareness: Are you actually happy at work?03:30 — Why high-achieving women rarely pause to reflect03:50 — Overview of today’s framework + three actions to take04:00 — Three signs it might be time for a shift04:15 — Sign 1: Successful on paper but feeling flat04:40 — Episode 58 on Success Fatigue (referenced)04:55 — Sign 2: You’ve outgrown your role or organization05:15 — Sign 3: You’re putting everyone else first05:45 — Introducing the Career Happiness Wheel06:00 — How to create and label your wheel06:30 — Possible segment labels: challenge, culture, learning, expertise, recognition, values, balance, team, progression07:00 — Scoring each segment and shading your wheel07:45 — Using the visual to spot areas of strength and areas needing attention08:00 — Taking a macro view: What do you want your wheel to look like in 6–12 months?08:30 — Choosing one area and breaking it down: example - work-life balance09:00 — Practical questions to improve balance (boundaries, support, deadlines, delegation)09:40 — Three actions to take this week09:50 — Action 1: One small action that energizes you10:20 — Action 2: Have one honest conversation10:50 — Action 3: Book 30 minutes of monthly “career thinking” time11:20 — Revisit your wheel every 3 months to track progress11:50 — Why this exercise matters: You deserve meaningful, joyful work12:15 — Invitation to share your Career Happiness Wheel outcomes12:40 — Where to find resources and how to connectUseful LinksEpisode 58 What to do if you're experiencing success fatigueSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallJoin The Love What You Do Facebook GroupConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

In this episode Sarah explores one of the most overlooked yet transformational leadership skills: self-compassion. So many ambitious women lead with empathy for others but are relentlessly hard on themselves. Sarah breaks down why self-compassion isn’t soft or indulgent - it’s a strategic leadership advantage.If you’ve ever felt “not good enough,” replayed mistakes, or pushed yourself to burnout levels, this episode will help you shift into a kinder, more effective, and more sustainable leadership style.What You’ll LearnWhat self-compassion really is (and isn’t)The three pillars of self-compassionHow your inner critic gets in the way of leadership effectivenessSimple techniques to create a more compassionate internal dialogueHow self-compassion improves team performance, resilience, and confidenceA weekly practice to start becoming a more self-compassionate leaderShow Notes01:00 – Why Feeling “Stuck” Happens at Every LevelNormalising self-doubt and imposter feelings — even for senior leaders.02:00 – Today’s Topic: Are You a Self-Compassionate Leader?Why self-compassion matters and how it affects leadership performance.02:30 – How High-Achieving Women Talk to ThemselvesCommon phrases Sarah hears from clients and the toll this negative self-talk takes.03:00 – A Client Story: The Compassionate Leader Who Was Brutal with HerselfA powerful example from a senior tech leader who created a safe, high-performing team — but silently battled her inner critic.04:00 – Consequences of an Unmanaged Inner CriticBurnout, indecision, perfectionism, and career self-sabotage.04:45 – Why We Don’t Notice Our Inner CriticUnderstanding how long-held thought patterns become automatic.05:00 – Why We Don’t Need to “Eliminate” the Inner CriticIts protective role — and why the goal is to develop an inner coach instead.05:40 – Introducing a Self-Compassion PracticeHow compassion builds the foundation for managing fear-based self-talk.06:00 – The Research: Why Self-Compassion Is a StrengthResilience, emotional intelligence, stress reduction — and why kindness is strategic.06:40 – The Three Pillars of Self-CompassionSelf-kindness over self-judgmentCommon humanity over isolationMindfulness over over-identification07:20 – How Over-Identification Fuels RuminationWhy noticing your thoughts is more powerful than believing them.08:00 – Technique 1: Awareness & Noticing Your Inner CriticHow to identify triggers and write down the language you use with yourself.09:00 – Technique 2: What Would You Say to a Friend?Reframing your self-talk with compassion and perspective.09:40 – Technique 3: Reframing Critical ThoughtsTurning “I failed” into “I’m learning” — without damaging your sense of self.10:30 – Technique 4: A Micro Self-Compassion Check-InA moment to breathe, acknowledge difficulty, and ask: What do I need right now?11:00 – Using Tone & Touch to Soothe the Nervous SystemHow gentle tone, a self-hug, or hand-stroking can reduce stress.12:00 – Bringing It All TogetherA summary of the steps and how to blend them into daily leadership.12:40 – Weekly Reflection QuestionsWhere does your inner critic show up? What triggers it? What’s one act of self-compassion you can choose this week?13:00 – Closing ThoughtsSelf-compassion as a leadership superpower and a way to role model healthier leadership.Useful LinksKristin Neff's Self Compassion TestSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallJoin The Love What You Do Facebook GroupConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

In this episode Sarah explores the subtle yet powerful ways imposter feelings show up for high-achieving women-often without them realising. From overthinking to perfectionism to holding back in meetings, Sarah breaks down eight common patterns she sees in her clients and shares a simple but effective mindset tool you can start using today. If imposter feelings have been draining your confidence, energy, or ambition, this episode will help you recognise the signs and take your first steps toward breaking free.Show Notes[00:00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable[00:01:00] – Why Imposter Feelings MatterThe hidden ways imposter feelings show up for successful women. Inspired by a recent LinkedIn poll, she highlights overthinking and self-doubt as the two most common manifestations.[00:02:00] – Awareness Is Step OneImposter feelings are sneaky, often long-established patterns. Sarah explains why becoming aware of how they show up is crucial before you can change them.[00:02:30] – Webinar AnnouncementSarah invites listeners to her upcoming webinar: How to Break Free From Imposter Syndrome and Shine as a Leader (25th November).[00:03:00] – Imposter Feelings in PracticeSarah shares how imposter feelings affected her early leadership career-leading to over-preparation, comparison, anxiety, and eventually burnout.[00:04:00] – What Imposter Feelings Really AreShe reframes “imposter syndrome” as “imposter feelings” and describes them as a psychological pattern-not a personal flaw. Patterns can be changed.[00:05:30] – The 8 Hidden Ways Imposter Feelings Show UpSarah introduces eight subtle but common behaviours driven by imposter feelings.The 8 Hidden Ways Imposter Feelings Show Up1. [00:06:00] Over-Preparation / PerfectionismFeeling you must deliver perfectly, leading to burnout, procrastination, and risk-aversion.2. [00:07:00] Downplaying AchievementsAttributing success to luck or others, which diminishes your visibility and value in the eyes of others.3. [00:07:30] Holding Back OpinionsStaying silent in meetings to avoid being wrong-reducing influence and visibility.4. [00:08:00] Avoiding VisibilityTurning down opportunities that stretch you, limiting growth and career progression.5. [00:09:00] Over-ApologisingUsing apologetic language unnecessarily, which can reduce perceived confidence.6. [00:09:30] ComparisonitisMeasuring your success against others rather than your own criteria, distracting from your own growth.7. [00:10:00] Second-Guessing & OverthinkingOverthinking minor or major decisions, causing procrastination, missed opportunities, and decision fatigue.8. [00:11:00] Taking On Too MuchSaying yes to everything or micromanaging to “prove yourself,” often resulting in burnout and appearing less strategic.[00:12:30] – The Fear of Changing What “Works”Sarah acknowledges the fear many women have: If I stop doing these behaviours, will I still be successful? She explains why the answer is yes and how letting go can unlock more effective leadership.[00:13:00] – Mini Mindset Exercise: Naming Your Inner CriticSarah shares a practical technique for bringing the unconscious “imposter voice” into awareness:Name your inner critic to separate it from your identity.Identify its triggers.Present evidence to counter its claims.Use self-reassurance in the moment.She shares a client story about how naming her inner critic (“Diana”) helped her shift her thinking and confidence in real time during a meeting.[00:17:00] – Final ThoughtsImposter feelings are invisible and draining but they are changeable. With awareness and intentional action, you can break free and step into leadership with confidence and clarity.Useful LinksSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallJoin The Love What You Do Facebook GroupConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

In this episode, Sarah dives into one of the biggest challenges leaders face: leadership confidence. Whether you’re leading a team, presenting to the board, or navigating new territory in your role, confidence wobbles are completely normal.Sarah shares practical tools and mindset shifts to help you strengthen your inner confidence “core,” reframe limiting beliefs, and build an authentic leadership identity that inspires trust and impact.Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction[00:02:00] The Pressure of LeadershipLeaders face constant expectations from all directions - team, boss, board, and clients. This pressure, coupled with people-pleasing tendencies or imposter feelings, can shake your confidence.[00:04:30] Normalising the “Confidence Wobble”Everyone, even the most confident leader, experiences self-doubt. Understand why these wobbles happen and why they’re a natural part of leadership growth.[00:05:30] The Importance of Inner WorkLasting leadership confidence starts within. Understand how it's comparable to building your physical core strength - once your inner foundation is strong, everything else becomes easier.[00:06:30] What Is “Inner Work”?Confidence grows when you understand your beliefs and stories about who you are as a leader. A client example of a Head of HR who discovered that being “too professional” was limiting her authenticity and connection at work.[00:08:30] Understanding Limiting BeliefsMany of our beliefs were shaped early in life or career. Understand how to spot them, why they persist, and how to reframe them to create new, empowering beliefs.[00:09:30] Spotting Your TriggersIf something or someone keeps triggering you, it’s a clue to an underlying belief. Hear the story of a Head of Marketing who uncovered a belief about not being “sharp enough” and how awareness led to growth.[00:11:00] Rewriting Your Leadership NarrativeNotice the stories you tell yourself - both positive and negative. Bringing these narratives into awareness allows you to rewrite them in a more confident, compassionate way.[00:12:30] Sarah’s Own ExperienceSarah shares her personal journey of self-doubt as an HR Director and how doing her own inner work helped her lead with resilience and authenticity.[00:13:00] The Leadership Brand ExerciseThrough her Ambition Plan programme, Sarah helps clients explore their leadership brand - what they’re known for and what makes them unique. One client’s lightbulb moment revealed how her “challenging” style was actually her greatest strength.[00:14:30] Owning Your Leadership IdentityAuthenticity, self-awareness, and amplifying your unique strengths build trust and make you a more effective, confident leader.[00:15:00] Practical TakeawaysNotice when and why your confidence feels wobbly.Identify what’s triggering you and what belief might be behind it.Pay attention to your inner narrative — and consciously reshape it.Reflect on your leadership brand: what makes you unique?Recognise that a confidence dip might mean you’re growing as a leader.[00:16:30] Closing ReflectionsConfidence work takes courage, but you don’t have to do it alone. Sarah invites listeners to reach out for coaching support and explore her free resources.Final Inspiration“Remember, you’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. And unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable.” Useful LinksSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallJoin The Love What You Do Facebook GroupConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk