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In this inspiring conversation, Vicky and Sam chat with Dr Hayley Lewis, Chartered Psychologist and one of HR Magazine’s Most Influential Thinkers of 2021. Known for her ability to simplify complex psychology into practical, visual tools, Hayley shares frameworks and insights to help us start the year with kindness, balance, and realistic habits.
Key Themes & Insights
1. WOOP: A Framework for Achievable Goals
Hayley introduces WOOP, a science-backed method to improve goal setting, especially helpful when motivation fades:
- Wish – What’s your goal or aspiration?
- Outcome – What would achieving it look and feel like?
- Obstacle – What might get in your way?
- Plan – How can you overcome those barriers?
It’s a simple but powerful way to move from wishful thinking to action.
2. Be Kind to Yourself January
Instead of pushing for big resolutions in gloomy January, Hayley encourages gentleness and self-compassion. Inspired by “Wintering” by Katherine May, she reminds us that winter is a time to rest and recharge, to embrace the Danish concept of Hygge and focus on wellbeing rather than deprivation.
3. Rethinking Productivity: Manage Energy, Not Time
Drawing on Dr Devon Price’s book “Laziness Does Not Exist,” Hayley challenges our productivity-obsessed culture. She explains that taking rest isn’t lazy, it’s essential.
Instead of obsessing over time management, she suggests focusing on energy management, being mindful of what drains or fuels us. Hayley uses a sketchnote energy grid to help visualize where we spend our energy across work, home, and self-care.
4. Small, Sustainable Habits
Hayley promotes the idea of “little and often.” Her self-compassion bingo card is a fun, visual way to track small acts of self-kindness, like taking a short walk, pausing for tea, or stepping outside between meetings.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritise sleep – it’s the foundation of good mental health.
- Don’t overload yourself with too many goals.
- Let go of guilt for taking time to rest.
Recommended Reading
- Wintering by Katherine May
- Laziness Does Not Exist by Dr Devon Price
- When: The Science of Perfect Timing by Daniel Pink
Hayley also references Dr Magdalena Bak-Maier’s “Grid”, a practical tool to balance energy across four key life areas.
Final Thought
The episode is a reminder that success doesn’t come from doing more, it comes from caring for yourself, managing your energy, and setting realistic goals. Be kind, stay curious, and take small steps toward a balanced, fulfilling year.
All of the resources Hayley talks about are available here
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