Leading In A Complex World
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

Leading In A Complex World

The world is on fire. And yet, we still have meetings. Still write strategies. Still try to lead.

In the face of injustice, gen*c*de, war, rising inequality, and a planet in crisis — it can feel disorienting to keep showing up in “business as usual” mode. For many leaders I coach, the question beneath the surface is this:

How do I lead with integrity when the world feels broken? How do I stay kind when I’m overwhelmed? How do I stay human in systems that aren't always humane?

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Should you turn your hobby into your job?
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

Should you turn your hobby into your job?

Turning your passion into your profession can be deeply rewarding—but it also comes with challenges. Hobbies are typically our refuge, a space where we unwind, express ourselves, and feel free of external pressures. When they become our job, they’re suddenly tied to deadlines, expectations, and financial pressures. Therefore it’s reasonable to wonder whether turning a hobby into a profession is really such a good idea.

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Is Influence Just Socially Acceptable Manipulation?
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

Is Influence Just Socially Acceptable Manipulation?

The concept of influence often gets a shiny reputation—especially in leadership, sales and marketing. It’s seen as the art of persuasion, the ability to inspire action, and a skill necessary to drive progress. As a leader myself, I’ve reflected on my ability to influence, and even had to prove it, in order to obtain promotions over the years. The more senior I became, the more important influence seemed to become. In fact, in a large matrix multinational, sometimes it felt as if influencing was all I ever did. But how comfortable should we be with this? Beneath the surface lies a question worth exploring: Is influence just a socially acceptable form of manipulation?

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Where does compromise end and sacrifice begin?
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

Where does compromise end and sacrifice begin?

From a young age, many of us learn to compromise—perhaps most intensely if we grew up with siblings. But what happens when we start to feel that we’re giving up too much? When does compromise start tipping into the territory of sacrifice? And is there a dark side to compromise that often goes unnoticed?

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Change vs. Acceptance: When to Push Forward and When to Let Go
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

Change vs. Acceptance: When to Push Forward and When to Let Go

In a world where resilience is valued and mental well-being prioritised, the call to "accept the things I cannot change" is often echoed as a mantra for peace. However, equally important is the counterpart, "change the things I cannot accept." This crucial distinction demonstrates that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution —especially when faced with injustice, harmful environments, or deep-rooted systemic issues. Knowing when to lean into acceptance and when to drive change is essential in navigating challenges effectively.

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What’s right for me: 1:1 or Group Coaching?
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

What’s right for me: 1:1 or Group Coaching?

Ready to fast-track your personal growth but not sure if 1:1 or group coaching is right for you? In this article, we break down the key differences and benefits of each coaching style. Whether you want personalised focus or the power of a supportive community, this guide will help you choose the path that maximises your potential. If you're serious about transforming your life and achieving your goals, read on to discover which coaching approach can elevate your journey.

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Live to Play (Not Work)
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

Live to Play (Not Work)

Growing up in the 80s I remember a childhood filled with all kinds of play. Long before the invention of the iphone or on-demand TV we made our own fun with go-carts, make-believe and physical games. Everyday could be an adventure and the possibilities were seemingly endless. Unfortunately, somewhere along the way, we learnt both consciously and unconsciously that play must stop; that there was simply no time or place for play amongst our many new responsibilities and evolving identities. Well I’m here to call time on this incorrect notion. Not only is play highly beneficial across a multitude of areas, it’s actually essential for health, growth and success. 


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Cult or Culture: Unveiling the Dynamics of  Organisational Belonging and Beliefs
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

Cult or Culture: Unveiling the Dynamics of  Organisational Belonging and Beliefs

What happens when a culture becomes so rigid, so insular that it starts to exhibit characteristics more akin to a cult than a healthy, dynamic environment? Does culture have a risky side, and where is the line between helpful and harmful?

This article seeks to answer such questions and ultimately to explore the fine line between cultivating a thriving business culture and slipping into the dangerous territory of cult-like behaviour. Acknowledging the dynamic challenges of modern business, it draws on insights to help leaders and followers foster authenticity and inclusion.

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EVERY body is welcome here
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

EVERY body is welcome here

Together we can nurture specific needs and limitations in partnership with an attitude of abundance, to create safer, more inclusive coaching environments that recognise and celebrate the diversity of all bodies and abilities.

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Build your empathy muscle for personal and professional success
Katie Ireland Katie Ireland

Build your empathy muscle for personal and professional success

Whatever your personal definition of empathy, one thing is clear; empathy in abundance is better for all of us. According to researchers Peter Paul Zurek and Hubert Scheithauer, it offers a range of benefits such as enhancing subjective wellbeing and strengthening relationships as well as improving self-awareness, interpersonal decision making, ethical decision making, moral judgements and altruistic behaviour.

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