In today’s episode, Sarah tackles a common challenge faced by high achievers: perfectionism. We explore why perfectionism can be a double-edged sword, the stress and anxiety it causes, and how you can overcome it without compromising on quality. She shares actionable insights, including a 7-step approach to embracing the concept of “good enough,” designed to help you reclaim your time, reduce stress, and achieve sustainable success.

[00:00:00] Introduction

Why tackling perfectionism is crucial for female leaders.

[00:02:00] The Downside of Perfectionism

Perfectionism’s connection to imposter syndrome and stress.

How it impacts performance, well-being, and relationships.

[00:05:00] Personal Story: My Struggles with Perfectionism

Balancing motherhood and a senior HR role.

The transformative power of the “good enough” concept.

[00:07:30] Case Study: Breaking the Cycle

A perfectionist architect’s journey to embracing good enough.

[00:08:00] The 7-Step Approach to Good Enough

Identify Two Tasks to Experiment On

Focus on low-impact tasks.

Define Good Enough for Yourself

Consider time and impact trade-offs.

Give Yourself Permission to Experiment

Use affirmations to reframe perfectionist tendencies.

Focus on the Benefits

Reclaim time for personal priorities like family or self-care.

Monitor Your Progress

Reflect on outcomes and celebrate success.

Engage Support

Seek feedback and accountability from peers or managers.

Address Underlying Beliefs

Work with a coach or therapist to reframe limiting beliefs.

[00:17:00] Recap and Final Thoughts

Quick summary of the seven steps.

Encouragement to embrace imperfection and unlock your potential.

Thank you for listening—remember, you’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock your extraordinary potential. Be unstoppable.

Useful Links

Watch on LinkedIn Live

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Rate & Review the Podcast

If 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

This episode focuses on mastering your mindset to increase your chances of success in job interviews. From mindset tips to practical strategies, Sarah provides the tools you need to ace your next interview and achieve your career aspirations.

Show Notes

[00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction

[00:02:00] The Growing Complexity of Interviews

• Insights into why interviews are becoming more extensive and the commitment required from candidates.

[00:03:00] Overcoming Negative Mindsets

• Learn how to shift your mindset from dread to confidence for interview success.

[00:05:00] Harnessing Positive Experiences

• Reflect on past successful interviews to boost confidence and frame your preparation.

[00:06:00] Reframing Nerves as Excitement

• Transform feelings of anxiety into excitement and embrace the opportunity to connect and showcase your skills.

[00:09:00] Gaining Perspective

• Put interviews into context: they’re an opportunity to assess fit and not the sole determinant of your career.

[00:11:00] Seeing Interviewers as Allies

• View your interviewers as potential colleagues who want you to succeed rather than as adversaries.

[00:13:00] Power of Affirmations

• Discover how affirmations can rewire your brain to foster confidence and positivity.

[00:15:00] Visualization Techniques

• Learn to use evidence-based visualization to rehearse and enhance your interview performance.

[00:17:00] Final Encouragement and Resources

• Sarah shares additional resources and closes with an inspiring reminder of your potential.

Remember, you are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable!

Useful Links

Watch the episode on LinkedIn Live

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Rate & Review the Podcast

If 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 delves into the concept of career change, exploring three different pathways—shift, pivot, or leap. She shares practical strategies, real-life client examples, and personal experiences to help you understand which type of change might be right for you.

Episode Shownotes:

[00:00:00] Intro: Welcome to the podcast, its purpose, and Sarah's mission to help ambitious female leaders thrive while staying true to their values.

[00:02:00] Why Career Change Happens: Common reasons people consider career change, including boredom, misalignment of values, or feeling stuck.

[00:04:00] Overcoming Career Change Fears: Addressing the fears that arise during career change, such as uncertainty, fear of judgment, and loss of identity.

[00:05:00] Degrees of Career Change: Breaking down career change into three pathways: shift, pivot, or leap.

[00:06:00] Shift: Examples of staying within your current career while making meaningful changes, such as a teacher moving into leadership or a marketer transitioning sectors.

[00:08:00] Pivot: Stories of professionals using existing skills to move into new but related roles, such as a marketing manager becoming an employee engagement manager.

[00:09:00] Leap: Transformational career changes, like a communications director retraining as a speech and language therapist.

[00:10:00] Sarah’s Career Journey: Personal examples of shifts, pivots, and leaps in Sarah’s career, from HR to career coaching.

[00:11:00] Emotional vs. Practical Aspects of Change: The importance of mindset, confidence, and motivation in making a successful career transition.

[00:12:00] Final Thoughts: Encouragement to take action, explore free resources, and connect with Sarah for guidance on career changes.

Useful Links

Watch this episode on LinkedIn Live

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Rate & Review the Podcast

If 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 tackles a common challenge: maintaining and boosting leadership confidence amidst high expectations, decision-making pressures, and self-doubt. Tune in for actionable strategies, real-life examples, and tips to help you build a strong inner foundation for sustainable confidence and success.

[00:00:00] Introduction

• Overview of the podcast's mission and goals, and the importance of addressing leadership confidence.

[00:01:00] Why Leadership Confidence Wobbles

• The pressures of leadership roles, including expectations from various stakeholders.
• How new challenges and decision-making responsibilities impact confidence.
• The influence of role models and past experiences on leadership style and self-perception.

[00:04:00] Common Challenges for Female Leaders

• People-pleasing tendencies and imposter syndrome.
• Comparing yourself to seemingly confident peers.
• Recognizing that confidence wobbles are universal and temporary.

[00:05:30] The Foundation of Leadership Confidence

• The importance of inner work to develop a resilient core of self-belief.
• How inner confidence impacts external trust and decision-making.
• Leadership confidence as a "muscle" that needs regular attention.

[00:07:00] Working on Beliefs and Narratives

• How unconscious beliefs formed early in life shape leadership confidence.
• Examples of clients who redefined their narratives to embrace their authentic selves.
• Practical steps to identify and reframe limiting beliefs.

[00:11:30] The Role of Triggers and Stories

• Identifying emotional triggers and their connection to deep-seated beliefs.
• Examining the stories we tell ourselves about success and failure.

[00:13:00] Amplifying Your Leadership Brand

• Understanding your unique leadership strengths.
• The transformative power of redefining your leadership brand through reflection.

[00:15:00] Key Takeaways

• Acknowledging when and why confidence wobbles occur.
• Practical actions: seeking support, recognizing triggers, and exploring your leadership narrative.
• The importance of continuous growth in leadership identity.

[00:16:30] Invitation for Support

• Opportunities for listeners to explore confidence coaching.
• How to access additional resources on the CareerTree Coaching website.

[00:17:00] Closing Remarks

• Encouragement to lead boldly, embrace your unique identity, and unlock your potential.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit.

Useful Links

Watch the LinkedIn Live Recording

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Sarah tackles a dilemma that most professionals face at some point in their careers: Should I stay in my job, or is it time to leave? She explores the red flags that signal it’s time to move on, how to assess whether your dissatisfaction is fixable, and how to make a robust decision that aligns with your values and goals. Sarah also shares a step-by-step diagnostic to help you gain clarity and confidence in your next career move.

Whether you’re feeling stuck, plateauing, or just unsure about your next step, this episode is packed with practical advice to guide you.

Episode Show Notes:

[00:00:00] Introduction:

Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable. Sarah introduces the show and today’s topic, sharing why the decision to stay or leave a job is so challenging.

[00:02:00] Clear Indicators It’s Time to Leave:

Toxic work environments, mental health impacts, and lack of change or growth opportunities.

[00:03:00] Subtler Signs of Dissatisfaction:

Boredom, plateauing, or feeling stuck despite great perks or pay.

[00:04:00] Diagnostic Questions to Gain Clarity:

How to evaluate what’s wrong with your job and whether it can be fixed.

[00:05:30] Assessing Growth Opportunities:

Looking internally for new challenges, projects, or lateral moves within your organization.

[00:06:30] Pros and Cons of Leaving vs. Staying:

Weighing the benefits and trade-offs of each option.

[00:07:30] Energy and Values Check-In:

How energy levels and values alignment impact your career satisfaction and decision-making.

[00:09:00] Conversations to Have:

Talking to your boss, HR, mentors, or coaches to explore options and gain perspective.

[00:10:00] Setting a Deadline for Decision-Making:

Avoiding indecision by setting a firm timeline for your next steps.

[00:11:00] Preparing for Your Next Move:

Defining criteria for your next role, whether internal or external, and making time for your search or preparation.

[00:12:30] Sarah’s Final Takeaway:

“No decision is ever wrong; it’s simply the decision you made at the time.”

Remember: Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable.

Useful Links

Stay or Go LinkedIn Live Recording

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Rate & Review the Podcast

If 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

Sarah tackles a vital topic: negotiating your worth - whether it's asking for a payrise or negotiating a better salary at job offer stage. Sarah delves into the importance of preparing both practically and mentally for salary negotiations, sharing actionable strategies to help you confidently advocate for the pay you deserve.

[01:00] The Importance of Understanding Your Motivation

• Explore why you’re considering a pay increase:
• Are you unhappy in your role?
• Do your responsibilities warrant a higher salary?
• Is it about fairness, recognition, or financial goals?

[5:00] Doing Your Research

Learn where to gather salary data, including:

• Glassdoor and industry job postings.
• Conversations with industry professionals and HR contacts.
• Membership organizations and gender pay reports.

[09:00] Preparing a Strong Business Case

Outline your desired salary and back it up with:

• A summary of your contributions and achievements.
• Responses to potential objections.
• Evidence from salary benchmarking.

[14:00] Timing & Building Relationships

Why timing is crucial: post-project success or organizational shifts can be opportune moments.

The role of your boss as an ally in the negotiation process.

[17:00] The Emotional Aspect of Negotiations

Strategies to manage anxiety and rejection.

Shifting your mindset to view the negotiation as part of long-term career development.

[17:30] The Pension Pay Gap and Future Planning

Learn why addressing salary negotiations is essential for closing the gender pension gap.

Discover how cumulative salary decisions impact your long-term financial security

[20:00] Backup Plans

Alternative benefits to negotiate, such as flexibility, additional training, or future reviews.

How to decide whether to stay or move on if your request is denied.

Useful Links

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Rate & Review the Podcast

If 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, and let Sarah know how your negotiation journey goes. Remember, you’re unstoppable!

Sarah shares practical strategies to help you get unstuck and take the first steps toward securing your next leadership role.

Sarah outlines three foundational steps to kickstart your leadership job search, focusing on motivation, clarity, and mindset. Whether you’re aiming for your first leadership role or planning a move to the next level, these actionable insights will set you on the path to success.

Episode Show Notes

[00:00] Introduction

Meet Sarah Archer and her mission to help female leaders thrive.

Overview of the episode’s focus: taking action on your leadership job search.

[01:10] Step 1: Set a Goal with a Timeline

Define a specific date for when you want to be in your new role.

Plan backwards to allocate time for your job search.

Identify "pull motivators" that inspire you to move forward.

[04:30] Step 2: Define Your Ideal Role

Clarify the elements of your next role: success factors, culture fit, stretch opportunities, and pay.

How to narrow down non-negotiables to streamline your search.

Using role criteria to make objective decisions during the offer stage.

[09:15] Step 3: Manage Mindset Wobbles

Overcome self-doubt and inner criticism that can hinder progress.

Tap into your inner coach to remind yourself of your strengths and achievements.

Strategies for staying motivated and confident throughout the job search process.

[12:30] Recap and Closing Thoughts

Summary of the three steps: setting a timeline, defining your ideal role, and managing your mindset.

Invitation to connect for personalized coaching support.

Useful Links

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Rate & Review the Podcast

If 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

Today Sarah dives into the common but often unspoken experience of imposter feelings at work. If you've ever felt like a fraud or doubted your achievements, you're not alone—and this episode will help you kickstart the process of overcoming those thoughts.

[00:00] Introduction

Meet your host, Sarah Archer, leadership coach and career strategist.

Overview of the episode: imposter feelings and their impact.

[01:15] What Are Imposter Feelings?

Statistics: 70% of adults experience imposter feelings at some point.

Triggering situations: new roles, promotions, or stepping out of comfort zones.

[04:20] The Disconnect Between Perception and Reality

Telltale signs of imposter feelings: doubting accomplishments and fearing exposure.

The role of internalized rules and harsh self-judgment.

[07:00] Roots of Imposter Feelings

Potential origins: childhood, early career experiences, or authority fears.

Sarah shares her personal story of overcoming imposter feelings.

[10:10] The Brain’s Coping Mechanisms

Strategies like perfectionism, avoidance, and overworking to manage feelings of exposure.

The exhausting impact on confidence, career growth, and mental energy.

[13:00] Breaking the Pattern

Understanding imposter feelings as a psychological pattern, not a permanent state.

Levels of change: environment, capabilities, beliefs, and identity.

[15:30] Real-Life Transformation: Sally’s Story

A client’s journey from imposter feelings to confidence in a new leadership role.

The importance of embedding new thinking patterns.

[17:30] Actionable Strategy: Identify and Reframe Your Rules

Unearthing unhelpful rules with prompts:

• “If I were really smart, I would…”
• “I know I’ll be competent when…”
• “I should always…”

Reframing rules as if advising a friend.

[18:50] Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Take time to identify unconscious rules and seek support if needed.

Resources and coaching opportunities available on Sarah’s website.

Useful Links

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Rate & Review the Podcast

If 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