In conversation with Dr Lara Pence

As a Clinical Psychologist Dr Lara Pence has spent the last decade working with elite athletes, business leaders and individuals as they peel back their outer shell, cast aside unhealthy patterns that are keeping them stuck and unfulfilled and begin to build a new, more resilient and adventurous sense of self.

But we warned none of this is easy. This straight talking US based mind doctor is out to call out the “quick fix approach” where people try to hot-wire inspiration, motivation and momentum without first putting in the hard work to understand who they really are.

Curiosity, she says, is the super power that can lead us all to a better, richer more authentic life. Understanding our own authentic self and unique values a critical first pillar for good mental health and a rich life.

Full of joy and energy, Lara has some hard messages for all of us women. Forget “woke women supporting women messages” she says. “Women are their harshest self critics”. But after that she says it is other women who are often next in line to tear us down. We need to change this, she says.

Her call to arms is for us all to get busy going inwards understanding better who we are, exercising self compassion, flexibility and open mindedness. Only then can we be less judgemental and way more open to celebrate the successes, wonder and vulnerabilities of other women.

On vulnerability she cautions “there is no such thing as vulnerability to 5 million followers on instagram. It isn'‘t safe”. Instead she counsels “vulnerability is most useful and provides the greatest return on investment when it is practiced with a small group of trusted allies”.

Visit Dr. Lara’s website to learn more about her work.