An interesting discussion recently in a group session reminded me about giving ourselves permission … not an unfamiliar theme in the world I work in of coaching and leadership development.

We had a great debate about why we can give others permission to do what they need to do, when we’re often less kind on ourselves, and just don’t see the resolution to our own problems as well as we see those of others. So while we might easily be able to encourage someone else to leave work on time, take a lunch break, have an honest conversation, stand firm, speak up, balance your life … it seems we’re less able to give ourselves that great advice.

I wonder why?