In a world where expectations weigh heavily, the constant drive to meet the needs of others often leaves little space for self-care and authenticity. The recent event, “Space to Breathe: Barely Surviving to Thriving in 3 Simple Steps,” delivered by Becs Winterborn, invites attendees to shed the myth of the ‘superwoman’ and reclaim their personal power. This transformative session focuses on practical steps to help individuals transition from a state of exhaustion to a life of fulfillment by exploring the concept of soft power, clarifying personal needs, and fostering self-compassion.
The Superwoman Myth: Breaking Free from Unrealistic Expectations
One of the key themes of the session was dismantling the “superwoman” archetype—a societal narrative that glorifies relentless multitasking, perfectionism, and constant self-sacrifice, particularly among women. Becs emphasized that this myth is not only harmful but unsustainable. Instead of striving for impossible standards, participants were encouraged to embrace their true selves and stop prioritizing external validation over their inner well-being.
By sharing her personal story, Becs highlighted how living up to such unrealistic expectations can lead to emotional burnout, stress, and even mental health challenges. Acknowledging the impossibility of being everything to everyone at all times, the audience was guided through strategies for releasing these pressures and building a life rooted in authenticity.
Embracing Soft Power: A New Approach to Empowerment
The second critical component of the session was the introduction of “soft power”—a concept that may sound gentle, but its impact is profound. Soft power is about leveraging inner strength, emotional intelligence, and influence through collaboration rather than control. Becs explained that soft power allows individuals to lead and live with empathy, intuition, and purpose rather than relying on force or external authority.
Becs’ insights on soft power were transformative, particularly for those accustomed to working in demanding environments like healthcare, where compassion fatigue can run high. She encouraged attendees to rethink their approach to leadership and interpersonal dynamics, focusing on collaboration rather than competition. This shift can foster not only personal well-being but also create more inclusive, supportive professional environments.
Clarifying Your Needs: The Path to Self-Realization
In the final portion of the session, Becs took participants through a reflective exercise to help them clarify their true needs. She explained that it’s only when we truly understand and acknowledge our needs that we can begin to set boundaries and make decisions that align with our authentic selves. This process of introspection is crucial for moving beyond survival mode and stepping into a life where thriving is the norm.
Becs emphasized the importance of tuning into one’s internal compass—understanding what nourishes you emotionally, physically, and spiritually. For many in the audience, this was a wake-up call, as they realized that neglecting their own needs had left them feeling drained and unfulfilled.
Becs Winterborn’s Personal Journey: From Trauma to Transformation
Becs’ message carried particular weight because it was grounded in her own lived experience. A seasoned NHS doctor with 25 years of experience, Becs shared her personal journey of surviving Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and rediscovering her love for medicine. Her story began with a tragic trauma case that triggered her PTSD, leading her to seek eye-movement desensitisation reflex (EMDR) therapy. This process allowed her to heal and return to work, but the trauma would re-emerge during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her second experience with PTSD, following a tragic maternity emergency, led her to take another leave of absence. It was during this time that she turned to coaching to explore her future path. Through this journey, Becs learned the importance of aligning her professional life with her true self—a process that involved shedding the “superwoman” persona and embracing soft power.
Her candidness about the toll that traditional expectations had taken on her mental health and well-being resonated deeply with attendees. Becs demonstrated how her transformation not only allowed her to thrive personally but also paved the way for her to support others in their journeys through coaching and leadership.
The Gift of Authenticity: Removing the Mask
One of the most powerful messages of the event was the importance of living authentically. Becs urged attendees to remove the masks they wear in their professional and personal lives and to stop hiding behind armor that no longer serves them. She shared how embracing her true identity had allowed her to break free from stereotypes, particularly as a vascular surgeon, where she was often seen as an outlier.
Becs’ approach to coaching is built on this foundation of authenticity. Whether working one-on-one with clients or leading group workshops, she helps people uncover their true talents, purpose, and identity. Her blend of clinical expertise, leadership experience, and coaching skills uniquely positions her to guide others in healthcare and beyond through this process of self-discovery.
Key Takeaways from the Event
The “Space to Breathe” session provided attendees with a roadmap to break free from survival mode and step into a more fulfilling, authentic life. Some key takeaways included:
- Rejecting the Superwoman Myth: Let go of unrealistic expectations and the need for external validation.
- Leveraging Soft Power: Lead and live with empathy, emotional intelligence, and collaboration rather than force.
- Clarifying Personal Needs: Take time to reflect on what you truly need to thrive, and set boundaries that honor your well-being.
- Embracing Authenticity: Remove the mask and reveal your true self to unlock your full potential.
For many participants, these insights were life-changing, providing not only a sense of relief but also a clear direction for moving forward. The tools and strategies shared during the session were practical and applicable to both personal and professional life, making this an empowering experience for everyone involved.
Watch the Full Session on Demand
If you missed the live session or want to revisit the powerful insights shared, you can watch the full event on demand. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or simply ready for a change, Becs Winterborn’s “Space to Breathe” will guide you toward a more balanced, authentic life. Don’t wait to reclaim your energy and embrace the gift of being your true self.
Contact Becs
- LinkedIn – Becs (Little) Winterborn | LinkedIn
- Instagram – @becswinterborncoaching
- X (Twitter) – @becsjlittle
- Threads – @becswinterborncoaching
- Website – www.becswinterborn.co.uk
