Compassion in Action: Small Daily Practices
Photo credit to Misha Safran, Canva, & Midjourney, Logo credit to Misha Safran & Christi Williford
What Does It Look Like to Lead with Compassion—Today?”
We often think of leadership as something bold or strategic—but more often, if you remember the quote from Maya Angelou*, it’s the moment you spend with others that shape how people feel in your presence. Leadership grounded in emotional intelligence and empathy doesn’t have to be grand. It simply has to be consistent.
Compassionate leadership shows up in the micro-moments: a thoughtful follow-up, a kind check-in, a pause to avoid reacting harshly and based on assumptions. When we choose to see others with care and respond with intention, we create cultures where people don’t have to earn their worth—they feel it. These small acts are more than “nice”—they are the fuel of sustainable inclusion, trust, and belonging.
đź’ś Quick Tips (and Why They Matter) đź’ś
Use the “5-Second Compassion Reset.” Before entering a meeting or replying to a challenging message, pause and ask: “How can I show care right now?” This moment of intention, if you truly get present in the pause, can shift tension into empathy and reaction into connection.
Practice micro-recognition. Acknowledge small wins or emotional labor others contribute—even if it’s not visible to everyone. A “Thank you for how you handled that” can be even more powerful than a performance review.
💌 Send a “just thinking of you” message. It doesn’t have to be long. A brief, heartfelt note can remind someone they matter—especially in emotionally charged or isolating seasons.
đź’ Reflection Questions
How do I show compassion through my daily interactions, not just my big decisions?
What small act of care can I offer someone today without being asked?
With empathy and joy,
Misha Safran
PS: Compassionate leadership isn’t extra—it’s essential. Book a FREE consultation to discuss how I can help your team build everyday habits of empathy that elevate trust, morale, and inclusion: https://calendly.com/authentic_joy/speaking-inquiry-with-keynote-speaker-misha-safran
PPS: Want to spark more mindful conversations at work? Try CEEQ’s ConnectionCatalyst™ Card Decks—designed to build empathy, reduce judgment, and bring joy back into communication. I am VERY excited to announce that they are NOW ready for Pre-orders! You can purchase one, two, or all three card decks HERE! Stay tuned for the next card deck on TRUST!
Land Acknowledgement: Born on the land of the Anacostans, Piscataway, and Pamunkey peoples. Currently living on Karkin Ohlone land.
All are valued in my practice: BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, humans of all backgrounds and ages. Through sharing my pronouns, I hope to support a safer and braver space for all professionals to share their pronouns.
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