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Episode 24 How To Overcome Setbacks in Your Leadership Career
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Setbacks in leadership are inevitable — whether it's redundancy, missing out on a promotion, or feeling misaligned with your organization. In this episode, Sarah shares practical strategies to move through the emotional toll of a setback and come out stronger, wiser, and more aligned. Drawing on 16 years of coaching experience, she breaks down a clear 5-step approach to help you reflect, reframe, and rebuild your path to success. Whether you’re currently navigating a career disruption or want to future-proof your resilience, this episode is a must-listen.
Show Notes
00:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to the Podcast
00:01:00 – Why Setbacks Matter and What You'll Learn Today
Overview of today’s topic and why career setbacks can become pivotal growth moments.
00:02:00 – The Many Faces of Career Setbacks
From redundancy to value misalignment — common scenarios Sarah sees in coaching.
00:04:00 – The Emotional Impact of Setbacks
How setbacks affect identity, confidence, and emotions — and why it's important to honour that process.
00:05:00 – Navigating the Emotional Curve (Kubler-Ross Model)
Grief, denial, anger, blame — and how to begin moving through these emotions.
00:06:00 – Step 1: Reflect with Honesty
Understanding what went wrong, your role in it, and the lessons learned.
00:07:00 – Learning to Spot Red Flags in Hindsight
Real-life client story about ignoring red flags in the interview process.
00:08:00 – Step 2: Ask for Constructive Feedback
How to ask for helpful feedback and why it’s a powerful part of your rebound.
00:09:00 – Step 3: Objectively Consider What’s Next
Don’t rush — instead, reflect on your values and career success criteria.
00:10:00 – Sarah’s Personal Redundancy Story
How Sarah navigated being made redundant as a career coach and started her business.
00:11:00 – Real Client Story: From Employee to Contractor
How a challenging boss led one client to redefine success and change direction.
00:12:00 – Step 4: Mindset Shifts & Reframing Opportunity
From neuroscience to identity, how your brain reacts to setbacks, and how to reframe.
00:13:00 – Why Setbacks Spark Creativity
How dopamine dips create motivation for change and open new doors.
00:14:00 – Step 5: Take Action to Address What Needs to Change
Whether it’s mindset, confidence or leadership style — it’s time to act.
00:15:00 – Make Sure It’s the Right Opportunity (Not Just Any Role)
Avoiding knee-jerk reactions and choosing roles aligned with your purpose.
00:16:00 – Build a Long-Term Resilience Strategy
Practical tips for building internal and external visibility and support networks.
00:17:00 – Key Takeaways Recap
A step-by-step reminder of the framework to turn your setback into a springboard.
00:18:00 – Final Thoughts & Invitation to Connect
Encouragement and invitation to reach out for coaching or access free resources.
Useful Links
Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration
Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes
Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group
Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn
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You're capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. 🌟
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