#126 Breaking free from toxic productivity to find joy
"I was doing far too much and I had been doing far too much as long as I could remember. I didn't know the word burnout still at that point in time but I was burnt out and I needed to make a drastic change." In today's episode, we're joined by the incredible Tamu Thomas, who brings her wisdom and heart-centred approach to self-growth and healing. Tamu shares her story of transitioning from a high pressure, high stress career to a life more aligned with her core values, and a life filled with more joy. A move sparked by her battles with depression, anxiety, and a powerful wake-up call during a panic attack. We talk about her latest book, "Women Who Work Too Much," which is a rallying cry for women (actually anyone can read this and resonate!) to see their true selves beyond societal expectations. I loved the poetic and affirming notes in her book that seek to connect directly with the heart, and support you to break free from a toxic work culture. So often we don’t realise we are in that cycle, or that we have options. So join us for a deeply inspirational and soothing conversation about breaking free, finding our own rhythm, and embracing the beautiful messiness of life. "I thought there's no way in the world I am robbing my child of a vibrant, energetic, joyful mother. I want to make sure that I am role modelling for her something different, a ‘new form of womanhood’." Here are the highlights: 04:44 Struggling single mum vows to work for herself. 07:38 Overcoming panic, burnout, and seeking personal growth. 10:11 Supporting women to work less, live more. 15:07 Seek help and support in your journey. 19:14 Plans to publish book developed naturally and unexpectedly. 22:58 Hay House supported book on challenging topics. 24:32 Clarity in understanding and expressing core values. 30:18 Investing in coaching, growth-minded friends, and transition. 32:35 Open up, connect, and explore new perspectives. 39:17 Book addresses shadow aspects of working too much. Tamu Thomas’ Another Door go-tos The things that helped Tamu navigate change. Books: “The Shadow Effect" by Deepak Chopra, Debbie Ford, and Marianne Williamson. “Return to Love" by Marianne Williamson** Music: “Love Will Save the Day" by Des-ree* The one piece of advice: “Look at the door in front of you. Be moved by the door in front of you. Walk through that door. Take the next step and the next step and the next step. Keep your walking forward.” About your host Eleanor Tweddell: Eleanor supports individuals, teams and organisations through change. Whether it’s 121 coaching or large scale organisational change through communications and training. Eleanor’s work centres around how we, as humans, work through change, embracing the messy bits, the role of playing, with the aim to see opportunity. “Too often we get stuck in the change happening to us, when just through that next door is an exciting next chapter.” Eleanor is the founder of Another Door, and Get-Recommended.com and the author of Why losing your job could be the best thing that ever happened to you. Connect with Eleanor: Instagram:instagram/anotherdooruk LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-tweddell/ Website: eleanortweddell.com Are you looking for speakers with a fresh voice for your next workshop or conference? Check out www.get-recommended.com About Tamu Thomas Tamu Thomas is an accomplished author, executive coach, and keynote speaker who empowers ambitious individuals and organisations to achieve sustainable success through dynamic leadership. Her work focuses on creating emotional safety, self-trust, and fulfilment for high-achieving women, helping them break free from toxic productivity and embrace a more harmonious, joyful approach to work and life. Tamu's unique methodology blends somatic practices, nervous system awareness, and leadership expertise, creating a holistic approach that addresses both personal and professional growth. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Tamu has been featured in publications such as Harper's Bazaar, Stylist Magazine and Psychologies and is the author of the acclaimed book "Women Who Work Too Much: Break Free from Toxic Productivity and Find Your Joy." She is passionate about helping individuals and organisations create cultures of well-being, where everyone can thrive. Connect with Tamu: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamu.thomas/ Website: https://www.livethreesixty.com/ Produced by winteraudio.co.uk