JANUARY 2026 NEWSLETTER
- Antonio Tsialas Foundation
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Effective Leaders Practice Self-compassion
For leaders, self-compassion is a courageous practice. It requires slowing down, listening deeply to our own needs and caring for them with the same attention we give to the needs of those we lead. But why is it so essential?
Cultivating self-compassion is foundational to compassionate leadership. We need to fill our own cup first, because leadership rooted in exhaustion cannot be compassionate or effective. When leaders practice self-compassion, they not only model humanity, balance, and emotional intelligence, but create permission for others to do the same.
Management expert Peter Drucker explains, “You cannot manage other people unless you manage yourself first.”
Self-compassion includes treating ourselves mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually with the same care and kindness as we treat a friend. Practicing self-compassion empowers us to build healthy boundaries, say “no” without guilt, release unhealthy behaviors, and lead from a place of honesty and connection. In doing so, leaders model a deeper truth that belonging begins within.
To begin practicing self-compassion:
● Check in with your needs and feelings. Ask yourself: What do I need right now? What am I feeling now?
● Go for a walk when feeling overwhelmed
● Take regular breaks when experiencing a challenging situation
● Prioritize sleep and nourishment
● Treat yourself gently, like you would support a dear friend who is struggling.
● When setbacks happen, ask, “What can I learn from this?”
● Set and protect healthy boundaries. Say NO when a request compromises your well-being or values
● Ask for support
When leaders practice self-compassion, they lead with awareness, courage and humanity. Together as ONE, we lead with compassion.
ATLF Ambassadors’ Corner
My experience with ATLF began last year when my own classmates visited my sophomore class to teach us about compassion, empathy, and leadership. From that moment, I knew I wanted to get involved and have the opportunity to create the same positive impact for others. This year is my first year serving as an ambassador for ATLF, and I have gained so much from every meeting, activity, and discussion. Through this program, I have learned how to create more comfortable and inclusive spaces, facilitate stronger and more meaningful communication, and become more aware of how my actions affect those around me. Teaching the self-compassion module has allowed me to actively live out ATLF’s core values. As a student, it can be difficult to give yourself grace and understanding when balancing academics, responsibilities, and personal expectations. However, by guiding others through this lesson, I am constantly reminded to slow down, be mindful, and practice kindness toward myself as well. ATLF has helped me grow not only as a compassionate leader but also as a more empathetic individual.
Kaitlyn Lemus
ATLF Ambassador
Lives Remembered Futures Protected - Hazing Prevention Research Campaign
Join our family in supporting the Lives Remembered Futures Protected - Hazing Prevention Research Campaign and the vital work of the Hazing Prevention Research Lab at the University of Maine.
Please read the letter, linked below, from families like ours who have endured unimaginable loss and are asking you to join us in protecting students today and tomorrow.
CLEARING the Way to Empathy and
Self-Empathy in Action for Sophomores
at Ransom Everglades
Our ambassadors Bella, Kaitlyn and Christopher delivered the Empathy and Self-Empathy in Action module to the sophomore class at Ransom Everglades, demonstrating teamwork and compassionate leadership throughout the session. They created a supportive space where students could reflect, listen with intention, and recognize empathy within themselves and others.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the leadership team and the RE community, particularly Mr. Adatto and Mrs. Perez-Gonzalez, for their continuous support. Together as ONE, we lead with compassion!
ATLF End Of Year Celebration
In December, we gathered to celebrate ATLF and all that we have accomplished together this year. We are grateful to all the ambassadors, parents and board members who shared in this special moment. Seeing our community grow and lead with compassion is deeply inspiring. The group made the moment more meaningful by collecting toys and gift cards for the kids at the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Cancer and Blood Disorder Institute.
Thank you to our amazing ambassadors and their families for donating unwrapped toys and $400+ in gift cards to support children in the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute.
We extend a special thank you to Dr. Maggie Fader and her team for sharing their love and warmth for what they do with two of our ambassadors, Athena and Christopher. Their visit was filled with meaningful moments and stories they will carry with them!
Happy New Year from ATLF
As we reflect on the year that has passed and dream about the months to come, we hope that you will recognize your accomplishments and embrace the compassion in your hearts.
The new year 2026 offers an opportunity to plant seeds for the future that we hope to grow.
Wishing each of you a year of compassion, joy, and connection.
With warmth and gratitude,
The ATLF Family
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