FULFILLMENT THERAPY - Marriage & Family Therapy, Self Mastery, Self Actualization, Unmet Needs, LDS Parent, Family Connection

Show Notes:

Today I’m sharing one of the most remarkable stories in history of resilience, endurance, and determination. It’s SO incredible. So much so that you’ll think it’s fiction. This true story teaches us how we can develop greater grit and strength in our personal and family lives, and develop that same spirit in our children. I can’t wait to share this courageous story, so you’ll discover more courage in your own personal voyages towards greater fulfillment. 

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

I forgot to post all of January, except for one episode, about the $600 off the flash sale, so unfortunately, I missed sharing it to most of you since I’m about a month ahead in publishing my episodes, so I’ll be extending our flash sale through the first week of March, so listeners get an actual month of the flash sale. Apply the code SAVE600 to get $600 off our last flash sale for the Costa Rican Retreat when you sign up on FulfillmentTherapy.org. 

Adventure & Personal Growth Retreat includes:

All-Inclusive 6 Day & 6 Night Stay in Costa Rica

Luxurious Private Villa overlooking Bay

Enjoy Latin Cuisine as our Private Chef prepares 3 meals / Day 

& Drinks at our Unlimited Open Bar (fancy non-alcoholic drinks included)

Airport shuttle To & From Included

Professional Therapists / Coaches & Expert Team

Women’s, Men’s, and Couples Retreat at Neighboring Villas

5 Specially Created Fulfillment Meditation Sessions

Immersive Training to Elevate your Relationships & Personal Life

Transformative Meditation sessions and yoga

Private Villa is a short Walk from a Quiet, Beautiful Beach (rare for most retreats)

Breathtaking, Unforgettable Excursion in Nature like Ziplining, Hanging Bridges in the Rainforest, a 1500 ft Jungle Water Slide, Waterfall Hikes, Hot Springs, Volcanic Mud Baths, Snorkeling with Sea Life

Sailing, Surfing, Aquatic Adventures, Saunas, and even more…

Breakthrough Fulfillment Workshops + Coaching, Professional workbooks and resources

1 Week Pre-Retreat Virtual Integration Materials 

Costa Rican Retreats 

Unleashing Grit and Resilience for Fulfillment

• In the face of adversity, some people go beyond survival; they emerge as these beacons of resilience, strength, and enduring spirit. Today, we’re going to explore the incredible story of Ernest Shackleton and his Antarctic expedition and learn how he was able to  endure hardship and find fulfillment in the process, so that we can learn how to dig deep in our own arctic crossings and develop an iron strength."

Shackleton's Odyssey

• Sir Ernest Shackleton and the Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-1917) and his crew of 27.

2: The Extraordinary Human Spirit

• Picture yourself in Shackleton's crew, facing the harsh Antarctic conditions. Beyond sheer physical strength, their mental resilience, Shackleton's inspiring leadership, and their connection and interdependence got them through unimaginable challenges. Their determination and remarkable feats of endurance became legendary.

• Quotes:

• "The last of human freedoms – the ability to choose one's attitude in a given set of circumstances." – Viktor Frankl

• "I chose to fight, not just for survival but for a more fulfilling life beyond the ordeal." – Aron Ralston

3: Grit and Tenacity

• Grit is the persistent determination and resilience to pursue long-term goals despite obstacles and setbacks.

• Quotes:

• "Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. Grit is having stamina." – Angela Duckworth

4: Personal Transformation and Fulfillment

• Fulfillment through Adversity: Enduring challenges can lead to personal growth and a sense of fulfillment. (one of my first clients with kids with health challenges)

• Becoming Your Higher Self: Facing challenges helps refine our character and brings out our higher selves.

• Quotes:

• "It is not in the still calm of life … that great characters are formed." – Abigail Adams

• "Strength and growth come only through continuous effort and struggle." – Napoleon Hill

5: Lessons for Today

• Shackleton's journey to modern challenges and discuss how the lessons of endurance and resilience can be applied today in our families, faith, personal growth voyage.

• Embrace challenges, develop grit, and strive for personal fulfillment.

• "As we navigate our own seas of challenges, let Shackleton's story inspire us to dig deep, endure, and emerge not just surviving but thriving, fulfilling our true potential."

• Remember, within our own expeditions of adversity lies the forge of our greater selves. “Though the fiercest fires, the finest steel is forged.” Embrace challenges, cultivate resilience, and in this way, you’ll live a life of enduring fulfillment.

https://www.history.com/news/shackleton-endurance-survival

https://www.history.com/shows/historys-greatest-mysteries/season-3/episode-99 

Show Notes:

Today we’re talking about a no-drama approach to parenting by understanding your child's developing brain. We’ll learn why connection and understanding trump punishment, and explore  discipline techniques like the “Name it to tame it” and "Time In vs. Time Out" that work. Join us for tips on fostering a strong parent-child bond and creating an environment that will help you AND your kids thrive WITHOUT all the drama.

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

I forgot to post all of January, except for one episode, about the $600 off the flash sale, so unfortunately, I missed sharing it to most of you since I’m about a month ahead in publishing my episodes, so I’ll be extending our flash sale through the first week of March, so listeners get an actual month of the flash sale. Apply the code SAVE600 to get $600 off our last flash sale for the Costa Rican Retreat when you sign up on FulfillmentTherapy.org. 

Adventure & Personal Growth Retreat includes:

All-Inclusive 6 Day & 6 Night Stay in Costa Rica

Luxurious Private Villa overlooking Bay

Enjoy Latin Cuisine as our Private Chef prepares 3 meals / Day 

& Drinks at our Unlimited Open Bar (fancy non-alcoholic drinks included)

Airport shuttle To & From Included

Professional Therapists / Coaches & Expert Team

Women’s, Men’s, and Couples Retreat at Neighboring Villas

5 Specially Created Fulfillment Meditation Sessions

Immersive Training to Elevate your Relationships & Personal Life

Transformative Meditation sessions and yoga

Private Villa is a short Walk from a Quiet, Beautiful Beach (rare for most retreats)

Breathtaking, Unforgettable Excursion in Nature like Ziplining, Hanging Bridges in the Rainforest, a 1500 ft Jungle Water Slide, Waterfall Hikes, Hot Springs, Volcanic Mud Baths, Snorkeling with Sea Life

Sailing, Surfing, Aquatic Adventures, Saunas, and even more…

Breakthrough Fulfillment Workshops + Coaching, Professional workbooks and resources

1 Week Pre-Retreat Virtual Integration Materials 

Costa Rican Retreats 

https://feelingswheel.com/ 

No Drama Discipline 

Key Concepts from No Drama Discipline, by Dr. Dan Siegel and Tina Bryson, PhD

• "No-Drama Discipline" introduces a whole-brain approach to parenting and disciplining children.

Show Notes:

Step into a world of growth and resilience in our upcoming podcast PART 2 with our special guest, Jessica Winder, a Registered Nurse Coach! From Winston Churchill's enthusiasm in stumbling to Robin Sharma's view of failure as hidden growth, we're exploring how setbacks shape us. Join us for a dose of wisdom that not only fortifies individuals but strengthens the bonds within families.🌟🎙️ #FailingForward #GrowthMindset #ResilienceJourney

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

Costa Rican Retreats 

“Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” ― Winston S. Churchill

“Failure’s just growth in wolf’s clothing.” -Robin Sharma, 5 AM Club

“If you fail, never give up because F.A.I.L. means 'first attempt in learning'; End is not the end, in fact, E.N.D. means “Effort Never Dies'…” -Dr. A.P.J.

“The path of least resistance will never make you proud.” -Tony Robbins

Rascal Flatts, Broken Road (this can be applied to every trial - trials are like northern stars leading us to where we’re supposed to go and molding us into who we’re supposed to be)

I set out on a narrow way many years ago

Hoping I would find true love along the broken road

But I got lost a time or two

Wiped my brow and kept pushing through

I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you

That every long lost dream led me to where you are

Others who broke my heart, they were like Northern stars

Pointing me on my way into your loving arms

This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

Yes, He did

I think about the years I spent just passin' through

I'd like to have the time I lost and give it back to you

But you just smile and take my hand

You've been there, you understand

It's all part of a grander plan that is coming true

Every long lost dream led me to where you are

Others who broke my heart, they were like Northern stars

Pointing me on my way into your loving arms

This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

Yeah

And now I'm just a-rollin' home

Into my lover's arms

This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, mm, mm

Podcast Guest:

Instagram handle @jessicawinder_

Facebook page: Jessica Winder Coaching

Website: jessicawinder.cohere.live

Show Notes:

Step into a world of growth and resilience in our upcoming podcast with our special guest, Jessica Winder, a Registered Nurse Coach! From Winston Churchill's enthusiasm in stumbling to Robin Sharma's view of failure as hidden growth, we're exploring how setbacks shape us. Join us for a dose of wisdom that not only fortifies individuals but strengthens the bonds within families.🌟🎙️ #FailingForward #GrowthMindset #ResilienceJourney

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

Costa Rican Retreats 

“Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” ― Winston S. Churchill

“Failure’s just growth in wolf’s clothing.” -Robin Sharma, 5 AM Club

“If you fail, never give up because F.A.I.L. means 'first attempt in learning'; End is not the end, in fact, E.N.D. means “Effort Never Dies'…” -Dr. A.P.J.

“The path of least resistance will never make you proud.” -Tony Robbins

Rascal Flatts, Broken Road (this can be applied to every trial - trials are like northern stars leading us to where we’re supposed to go and molding us into who we’re supposed to be)

I set out on a narrow way many years ago

Hoping I would find true love along the broken road

But I got lost a time or two

Wiped my brow and kept pushing through

I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you

That every long lost dream led me to where you are

Others who broke my heart, they were like Northern stars

Pointing me on my way into your loving arms

This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

Yes, He did

I think about the years I spent just passin' through

I'd like to have the time I lost and give it back to you

But you just smile and take my hand

You've been there, you understand

It's all part of a grander plan that is coming true

Every long lost dream led me to where you are

Others who broke my heart, they were like Northern stars

Pointing me on my way into your loving arms

This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

Yeah

And now I'm just a-rollin' home

Into my lover's arms

This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, mm, mm

Podcast Guest:

Instagram handle @jessicawinder_

Facebook page: Jessica Winder Coaching

Website: jessicawinder.cohere.live

Show Notes:

Today my husband is back on with me and we’re talking about supporting your spouse through mental health challenges. We’ll discuss how your spouse’s mental health journey can be a chance to reshape your love, replacing fear with understanding and turning isolation into connection. We'll talk about how marriages aren't immune to mental health challenges but can be a safe space for healing and growth, creating understanding and compassion between partners. If you are wondering how to show up better for a loved one struggling with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health challenge, today’s episode will help you better understand what you do in those shadow lands of life. 

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

Costa Rican Retreats 

“A spouse's mental health journey is an opportunity for couples to redefine love, replacing fear with understanding and isolation with connection." - Dr. Terry Real

"Marriage isn't a sanctuary from mental health challenges; it's a safe space where healing and understanding can flourish." - Dr. David Schnarch

"In a marriage, mental health challenges aren't roadblocks; they're detours that lead to deeper understanding and compassion." - Dr. John Gottman

"In the dance of marriage, sometimes one partner takes the lead in supporting mental health, but both must be willing to move to the rhythm of understanding." - Dr. Harville Hendrix

Show Notes:

Ever feel like life's on fast forward, leaving you worn out and uninspired? Join us as we unravel the secrets of resetting and restoring. Imagine taking a break not as a luxury but a necessity, like a deep breath for your soul. Today we’ll explore how these moments of pause can breathe new life into your goals, enhance creativity, and, most importantly, prevent burnout. It's not just self-care; it's a roadmap to a more fulfilling, joyous life. Listen in to discover the art of pressing pause for a more vibrant you!

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

Costa Rican Retreats 

Sign up for our Costa Rican Adventure & Personal Growth Retreat! 

It includes:

All-Inclusive 6 Day & 6 Night Stay in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

Resetting & Restoring Tips

Physical Renewal: What It Looks Like: Engaging in activities that promote physical health, such as adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a balanced diet.

Purposeful Leisure: Engaging in activities purely for enjoyment and relaxation, whether reading a book, listening to music, or pursuing hobbies.

Disconnecting from Routine: Taking breaks from digital devices, unplugging from work-related stress, and spending time in nature.

Emotional Replenishment: Spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.

Mental Rejuvenation: Taking breaks from work, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in activities that stimulate mental clarity and creativity.

1. Recharge and Rejuvenate: Taking a break allows you to recharge both mentally and physically, providing the energy needed for personal growth. 

“No matter how strong or strong-willed you are, you cannot live a stressful, maxed-out life without that pace eventually biting you in the butt. It is necessary to take breaks, set parameters, and be kind to yourself if you want to continue making an impact in your little corner of the world.” ― Cynthia Mendenhall

“Is there a place you can go to break away for a little while? If you haven't yet built your tree house, it's never too late to start.” ― Gina Greenlee

2. Gain Fresh Perspective: Stepping back from your routine allows you to see things from a different angle. 

"When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." - Wayne Dyer

"Stepping back and reflecting is not a retreat; it's a chance to advance with a new perspective." - Unknown

3. Reflect on Goals and Values: Resetting provides an opportunity for introspection.

"In quiet reflection, we can truly understand the depth of our goals and the authenticity of our values." - Unknown

"True wisdom lies in the art of self-reflection; it's the compass that aligns our goals with our values." - Vironika Tugaleva

Taking a pause lets you reassess your goals and align them with your values.

4. Stress Reduction: Stress can hinder personal growth. A break helps alleviate stress, allowing for a more focused and resilient mindset.

 Dr. Seuss captures this: "Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple."

"Stress is the noise; silence is the remedy. Take a break, and let personal growth flourish in the stillness." - Amit Ray

5. Enhance Creativity: Creativity flourishes in a rested mind. Steve Jobs emphasized the link between creativity and taking a step back: 

"Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn't really do it, they just saw something."

6. Prevent Burnout: Continuous, unyielding effort can lead to burnout. A pause helps prevent this. Arianna Huffington advocates for balance, stating,

 "We think, mistakenly, that success is the result of the amount of time we put in at work, instead of the quality of time we put in."

"Preventing burnout is a conscious choice to pause, recharge, and let the embers of enthusiasm glow again." - Arianna Huffington

Show Notes:

Discover the keys to a more vibrant and fulfilling relationship with these expert tips on creating a safe space for open communication about needs and desires. Dive into the significance of quality couple time, non-sexual physical touch, and truth-infused communication, providing a playful guide to deepen intimacy and spark lasting connection in your relationship. Tune in to elevate your relationship game and experience a whole new level of joy and closeness!

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

Costa Rican Retreats 

Sign up for our Costa Rican Adventure & Personal Growth Retreat! 

It includes:

All-Inclusive 6 Day & 6 Night Stay in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

Show Notes:

Hey, lovebirds! Ready for some relationship wisdom for the month of love? In this episode, Kensi and I share game-changing tips for a stronger connection. Learn the art of gratitude, personal growth vibes, and how to navigate conflicts like a pro. Whether you're a rookie in love or a seasoned duo, these tips will level up your relationship game. Tune in and get ready to level up your marriage AND your love connection!

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

Costa Rican Retreats 

Sign up for our Costa Rican Adventure & Personal Growth Retreat! 

It includes:

All-Inclusive 6 Day & 6 Night Stay in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

Here are 2 FREE Worksheet on how to improve apologies and how steps on how to resolve conflict in your relationship. 

file:///C:/Users/kendr/OneDrive/Desktop/Favorite%20Canva%20Sheets/How%20to%20Apologize.pdf

file:///C:/Users/kendr/OneDrive/Desktop/Favorite%20Canva%20Sheets/Communication%20Skills.pdf

Show Notes:

Today we're discussing what to do when your child is sexually abused. Learn tips and tools on how to have difficult conversations for optimal healing for both you and your child. Discover how to help them open up and what you can do to offer the most support during an emotional time for both of you. Learn what your child needs most from you, and how to deliver it appropriately. 

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

Costa Rican Retreats 

Sign up for our Costa Rican Adventure & Personal Growth Retreat! 

It includes:

All-Inclusive 6 Day & 6 Night Stay in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

Sexual Abuse Tips:

Seek Professional Help:

Consult with a mental health professional, therapist, or counselor experienced in child abuse and trauma.

Involve a child protection agency or law enforcement as necessary.

Create a Safe Environment:

Ensure the child is in a safe and supportive environment.

Establish a stable routine to provide a sense of security.

Open Communication:

Encourage open and honest communication. Allow the child to express their feelings at their own pace.

Use age-appropriate language when discussing difficult topics.

Therapeutic Interventions:

Engage in play therapy, art therapy, or other therapeutic modalities to help the child express themselves.

Consider family therapy to strengthen relationships and support the healing process.

Empowerment and Autonomy:

Empower the child by involving them in decisions that affect them when appropriate.

Reinforce a sense of autonomy and control over their body and choices.

Educate and Normalize:

Educate the child about safe and unsafe touches.

Normalize seeking help and talking about difficult experiences.

Support Networks:

Connect with support networks, such as support groups for survivors of abuse and their families.

Ensure that the child has positive role models and supportive adults in their life.

Legal Involvement:

If applicable, cooperate with legal authorities to ensure the safety of the child and hold the abuser accountable.

Self-Care for Caregivers:

Caregivers need support too. Seek counseling or support groups to cope with the emotional impact of helping a child heal from abuse.

Show Notes:

Hey, listeners! Today, we're unpacking Pope Francis's talk on leadership health. No, it's not just for Vatican VIPs. We're talking about everyday leadership diseases – from arrogance to indifference. How does this apply to your family or personal leadership style, you may be wondering? Well, my friends. You’ll soon see why AND you’ll want to thank me. Or the Pope, or John Maxwell, who shared this in his book. Tune in for some oober helpful insights and an incredibly helpful self-check, and let's learn how to improve our leadership in ALL our spaces!

Enjoy!

-Kendra

ALL LINKS → https://linktr.ee/fulfillmenttherapy 

Website → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org

Contact → [email protected]

Instagram → @fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Community → http://bit.ly/fulfillmenttherapy 

Facebook Group → Private FB Group 

Schedule 1:1 Coaching → https://fulfillmenttherapy.org/1-on-1-coaching 

Chat → 1-986-910-5172 *text questions & topic requests

Costa Rican Retreats 

Sign up for our Costa Rican Adventure & Personal Growth Retreat! 

It includes:

All-Inclusive 6 Day & 6 Night Stay in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

15 Diseases of Leadership, by Gary Hamel

Developing the Leader Within You 2.0: Maxwell, John C.: 9780718074081: Amazon.com: Books

1. The disease of thinking we are immortal, immune, or downright indispensable, [and therefore] neglecting the need for regular check-ups. A leadership team which is not self-critical, which does not keep up with things, which does not seek to be more fit, is a sick body. A simple visit to the cemetery might help us see the names of many people who thought they were immortal, immune, and indispensable! It is the disease of those who turn into lords and masters, who think of themselves as above others and not at their service. It is the pathology of power and comes from a superiority complex, from a narcissism which passionately gazes at its own image and does not see the face of others, especially the weakest and those most in need. The antidote to this plague is humility; to say heartily, “I am merely a servant. I have only done what was my duty.”

2. Another disease is excessive busyness. It is found in those who immerse themselves in work and inevitably neglect to “rest a while.” Neglecting needed rest leads to stress and agitation. A time of rest, for those who have completed their work, is necessary, obligatory and should be taken seriously: by spending time with one’s family and respecting holidays as moments for recharging.

3. Then there is the disease of mental and [emotional] “petrification.” It is found in leaders who have a heart of stone, the “stiff-necked;” in those who in the course of time lose their interior serenity, alertness and daring, and hide under a pile of papers, turning into paper pushers and not men and women of compassion. It is dangerous to lose the human sensitivity that enables us to weep with those who weep and to rejoice with those who rejoice! Because as time goes on, our hearts grow hard and become incapable of loving all those around us. Being a humane leader means having the sentiments of humility and unselfishness, of detachment and generosity.

4. The disease of excessive planning and of functionalism. When a leader plans everything down to the last detail and believes that with perfect planning things will fall into place, he or she becomes an accountant or an office manager. Things need to be prepared well, but without ever falling into the temptation of trying to eliminate spontaneity and serendipity, which is always more flexible than any human planning. We contract this disease because it is easy and comfortable to settle in our own sedentary and unchanging ways.

5. The disease of poor coordination. Once leaders lose a sense of community among themselves, the body loses its harmonious functioning and its equilibrium; it then becomes an orchestra that produces noise: its members do not work together and lose the spirit of camaraderie and teamwork. When the foot says to the arm: ‘I don’t need you,’ or the hand says to the head, ‘I’m in charge,’ they create discomfort and parochialism.

6. There is also a sort of “leadership Alzheimer’s disease.” It consists in losing the memory of those who nurtured, mentored and supported us in our own journeys. We see this in those who have lost the memory of their encounters with the great leaders who inspired them; in those who are completely caught up in the present moment, in their passions, whims and obsessions; in those who build walls and routines around themselves, and thus become more and more the slaves of idols carved by their own hands.

7. The disease of rivalry and vainglory. When appearances, our perks, and our titles become the primary object in life, we forget our fundamental duty as leaders—to “do nothing from selfishness or conceit but in humility count others better than ourselves.” [As leaders, we must] look not only to [our] own interests, but also to the interests of others.

8. The disease of existential schizophrenia. This is the disease of those who live a double life, the fruit of that hypocrisy typical of the mediocre and of a progressive emotional emptiness which no [accomplishment or] title can fill. It is a disease which often strikes those who are no longer directly in touch with customers and “ordinary” employees, and restrict themselves to bureaucratic matters, thus losing contact with reality, with concrete people.

9. The disease of gossiping, grumbling, and back-biting. This is a grave illness which begins simply, perhaps even in small talk, and takes over a person, making him become a “sower of weeds” and in many cases, a cold-blooded killer of the good name of colleagues. It is the disease of cowardly persons who lack the courage to speak out directly, but instead speak behind other people’s backs. Let us be on our guard against the terrorism of gossip!

10. The disease of idolizing superiors. This is the disease of those who court their superiors in the hope of gaining their favor. They are victims of careerism and opportunism; they honor persons [rather than the larger mission of the organization]. They think only of what they can get and not of what they should give; small-minded persons, unhappy and inspired only by their own lethal selfishness. Superiors themselves can be affected by this disease, when they try to obtain the submission, loyalty and psychological dependency of their subordinates, but the end result is unhealthy complicity.

11. The disease of indifference to others. This is where each leader thinks only of himself or herself, and loses the sincerity and warmth of [genuine] human relationships. This can happen in many ways: When the most knowledgeable person does not put that knowledge at the service of less knowledgeable colleagues, when you learn something and then keep it to yourself rather than sharing it in a helpful way with others; when out of jealousy or deceit you take joy in seeing others fall instead of helping them up and encouraging them.

12. The disease of a downcast face. You see this disease in those glum and dour persons who think that to be serious you have to put on a face of melancholy and severity, and treat others—especially those we consider our inferiors—with rigor, brusqueness and arrogance. In fact, a show of severity and sterile pessimism are frequently symptoms of fear and insecurity. A leader must make an effort to be courteous, serene, enthusiastic and joyful, a person who transmits joy everywhere he goes. A happy heart radiates an infectious joy: it is immediately evident! So a leader should never lose that joyful, humorous and even self-deprecating spirit which makes people amiable even in difficult situations. How beneficial is a good dose of humor! …

13. The disease of hoarding. This occurs when a leader tries to fill an existential void in his or her heart by accumulating material goods, not out of need but only in order to feel secure. The fact is that we are not able to bring material goods with us when we leave this life, since “the winding sheet does not have pockets” and all our treasures will never be able to fill that void; instead, they will only make it deeper and more demanding. Accumulating goods only burdens and inexorably slows down the journey!

14. The disease of closed circles, where belonging to a clique becomes more powerful than our shared identity. This disease too always begins with good intentions, but with the passing of time it enslaves its members and becomes a cancer which threatens the harmony of the organization and causes immense evil, especially to those we treat as outsiders. “Friendly fire” from our fellow soldiers, is the most insidious danger. It is the evil which strikes from within. As it says in the bible, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste.”

15. Lastly: the disease of extravagance and self-exhibition. This happens when a leader turns his or her service into power, and uses that power for material gain, or to acquire even greater power. This is the disease of persons who insatiably try to accumulate power and to this end are ready to slander, defame and discredit others; who put themselves on display to show that they are more capable than others. This disease does great harm because it leads people to justify the use of any means whatsoever to attain their goal, often in the name of justice and transparency! Here I remember a leader who used to call journalists to tell and invent private and confidential matters involving his colleagues. The only thing he was concerned about was being able to see himself on the front page, since this made him feel powerful and glamorous, while causing great harm to others and to the organization. (The 15 Diseases of Leadership, According to Pope Francis, by Gary Hamel, April 14, 2015).