Adversity is an inevitable part of life. We all experience setbacks, struggles, and hardships that challenge our sense of stability and well-being. Yet, amid difficulty, there is an often-overlooked force that can sustain us: joy. Joy is not the absence of hardship but the presence of something deeper – an inner strength that allows us to navigate challenges with resilience and hope.
Aiming for perfect is a noble goal. The trouble is that perfection is not really possible, and we often ignore perfectionism's downright harmful effects. Tapping into our ambitions in a healthy way without going over the edge is possible. It requires an understanding of perfectionism itself, a recognition of our connection to others, and a willingness to set boundaries and limits.
We are pleased to share the perspectives of our colleague Nida Balamur, a participant in the current Compassionate Leadership Certification Program cohort, reporting from the front lines of the 2023 Turkish earthquakes. We are grateful for her heartfelt perspectives on empathy and compassion during this devastating time.
