The Courage Effect

Massimo Backus: Why Being Kind to Yourself Makes You a Better Leader

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#80: Massimo Backus, author of "Human First, Leader Second," shares his transformative journey from high-achieving "sage on the stage" to authentic leader through the power of self-compassion.

Key Moments:

The Wake-Up Call - Massimo was running global leadership development when devastating 360 feedback revealed he was defensive, didn't create psychological safety, and was even described as a bully - the opposite of his intentions.

The Epiphany - After surrendering to the Hoffman Process, Massimo experienced his first moment of unconditional self-love in the woods - realizing he'd spent his life hiding doubts and imposter syndrome behind a "leadership costume."

The Power of the Pause - Why rushing from one role to the next keeps us stuck - and how the "neutral zone" allows for healing and repatterning.

Powerful Quotes:

"We wake up most days trying to be someone we already are."

"Courage is the small things: taking good care of yourself, setting boundaries, asking for help."

"I had to fully surrender - give up all the coping mechanisms and parts of my identity that on paper worked."

Key Takeaways:

  • Self-compassion isn't soft - it takes courage to confront yourself authentically
  • Internal validation is sustainable; external validation keeps you off-balance
  • Emotions are data points, not definitions
  • Transition periods are opportunities, not just gaps to fill quickly

    • Resources:

    • Human First, Leader Second by Massimo Bacchus
    • Brené Brown's Atlas of the Heart
    • Dr. Kristin Neff's self-compassion research
    • The Hoffman Process

      • Connect with Massimo:

      • Website: [email protected]
      • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/massimo-backus/
      • Instagram: @massismoleadership  

        • Connect with The Courage Effect:

        • Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
        • Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
        • Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
        • Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about 

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            The Courage EffectBy Suzanne Weller - Weller Collaboration