Katie started her career as a vet, yet her experience of burnout on account of her pursuit of perfection led her down another path. She now describes herself as: speaker, imposter syndrome buster, vet entrepreneur. She’s also an author, by the way, and a few other things alongside that too. As an expert at “busting” imposter syndrome, and mastering personal narratives, in this episode, Katie shares a wealth of knowledge and academically-grounded insights and references, which I’m sure will be helpful to any listeners considering how to balance work with other things in life. Yet, it was the unexpected turn our conversation took to discussing the pursuit of balance while navigating grief that I think was most profound. Katie opens up about her own recent bereavement, and reflects on the long-lasting impact that grief has on a person’s work and life. She also delves into her experience of being a “high-achiever” and what impact this has had on her ability to establish a healthy balance between her studies, career, relationships and the time she devotes to the things that bring her joy (other than her work!). For Katie, all roads seem to lead to self-compassion and throughout our conversation she shares some practical suggestions on how to attain this, one being the power of connecting to your inner child. Now a business-owner, Katie touches on the how the transition from employed to self-employed has been for her. And much, much more… I guarantee that there is something for everyone to learn or take away from this episode. Happy listening!