Imagine if you could follow your ambition without drowning in it – how much more fulfilling life would be? That’s what Pause Purpose Play is all about – finding balance over burnout by setting you free from needing to be perfect, so that you can take action and get started with what matters to you, instead of getting stuck in procrastination and holding yourself back with self-limiting beliefs your inner critic tells you. In this podcast, Michaela Thomas, Clinical Psychologist, Couples Therapist and founder of The Thomas Connection, shares bite-sized learning around psychology of performance, habits, self-confidence, stress, anxiety, perfectionism, parenthood and couples relationships. The podcast will mix solo episodes with guest interviews; diving deep into their professional zone of genius and learning about how they have found pause, purpose and play in their life and in their work. My new book, The Lasting Connection, is available now from all good bookshops.
Episodes
Thursday May 29, 2025
Thursday May 29, 2025
In this solo episode, Michaela explores the discomfort many of us feel when receiving compliments - especially when we’re wired for self-criticism, perfectionism, or modesty.
Sharing a personal story from LinkedIn, she unpacks why our inner critics hate being seen and how we can respond with compassionate curiosity instead of avoidance. This episode is for anyone who’s ever cringed at being praised and wants to learn how to receive kindness more fully - without shame or self-doubt.
You’ll hear about:
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Why compliments can trigger our inner critic
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How upbringing and culture shape our ability to receive kindness
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Michaela’s personal experience of public praise on LinkedIn
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The two-step process of compassion: sense-making + action-taking
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How to lead with vulnerability while staying grounded in your values
Resources mentioned:
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Follow Lauren O’Carroll on LinkedIn
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Learn more about ADHD coaching for women: The Thomas Connection
Work with Michaela:
Feeling called to be more visible - but scared of the inner backlash? Get in touch for 1:1 coaching or find out more about my programmes for neurodivergent women leaders.
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