In a world that tells us to hustle harder and keep on our game face, self-criticism has become endemic for many people. But what if that voice in our heads is making us more anxious and less effective?

In today’s fast-paced, perfection-driven world, self-criticism has become second nature—and for many, a barrier to mental health and professional growth. But what if self-compassion isn’t weakness, but a secret superpower?

This week, Chester and Adrian sit down with Matt Kovatchis, a certified coach, mindfulness facilitator, and founder of Purposely Present Coaching, to explore the real cost of negative self-talk—and the liberating shift toward self-acceptance.

Matt shares his personal journey from corporate burnout to emotional breakthrough, offering powerful strategies for developing resilience, reducing anxiety, and building a fulfilling life based on authenticity—not approval.

Key Takeaways

• Self-Compassion Fuels Sustainable Success
• Detach Productivity from Self-Worth
• Mindfulness Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Special Thanks

• 🎧 Production: Brent Klein
• 🌟 Guest Coordination: Christy Lawrence
• 🎯 Free Resources: TheCultureWorks.com

Notable Quotes

“Criticism comes from fear. Compassion comes from love.” – Matt Kovatchis“Detach your productivity from your worth. Your value isn’t tied to your output.” – Matt Kovatchis“When you’re kind to yourself, it becomes effortless to be kind to others.” – Matt Kovatchis

Support the show

For a weekly dose of gratitude from Chester Elton, text GRATITUDE to 908-460-2820.

Until next week, we hope you find peace & calm in a world that often is a sea of anxiety.

If you love this podcast, please share it and leave a 5-star rating! If you feel inspired, we invite you to come on over to The Culture Works where we share resources and tools for you to build a high-performing culture where you work.

Your hosts, Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton have spent over two decades helping clients around the world engage their employees on strategy, vision and values. They provide real solutions for leaders looking to manage change, drive innovation and build high performance cultures and teams.

They are authors of award-winning Wall Street Journal & New York Times bestsellers All In, The Carrot Principle, Leading with Gratitude, & Anxiety at Work. Their books have been translated into 30 languages and have sold more than 1.5 million copies.

Visit The Culture Works for a free Chapter 1 download of Anxiety at Work.
Learn more about their Executive Coaching at The Cultur...