In this insightful episode, we’re joined by Ruth Song, a career coach and communications educator who shares her journey of self-discovery and courage beginning from a childhood of keeping her voice hidden.
Recounting her personal adversities, Ruth explains how she approached these challenges with self-compassion and resilience, reminding us that even the toughest times can be transformative. To overcome her own fears, Ruth has relied on 'exposure therapy,' a strategy that involves intentionally stepping out of her comfort zone to build confidence. Courage, she reminds us, is like a muscle that strengthens with practice and persistence.
Together we explore the significant influence that others’ opinions can have on our lives and the importance of filtering helpful advice from beliefs that limit us. Ruth emphasises the need to listen closely to our inner voice rather than allowing others to determine our life’s trajectory.
For Ruth, redefining failure has been a key part of her journey and she explains the power of choosing to "fail on your own terms." Ruth suggests setting growth metrics to track progress rather than perfection, helping to reframe disappointments as valuable parts of the learning process. Ruth also teaches us the powerful idea of tuning into your 'personal radio,' aligning with our unique voice and values rather than being distracted by external expectations.
To foster continuous growth, Ruth suggests using 'After Action Reviews' as a reflection tool; examining experiences and identifying areas for improvement, and turning every situation into a learning opportunity. She also recommends conducting small 'projects' as a way to try out new ideas, allowing for manageable risks and insights that help clarify one’s path.
We hope this inspiring and practical conversation with Ruth motivates you to redefine failure, face your fears and approach life with a renewed sense of purpose.
Guest Bio:
Ruth Song wasn't always the confident coach she is today. As a child, anxiety held her back, making speaking up a daunting challenge. But at 20, she defied expectations, not only launching her own radio show, but pioneering the English language section for a non-profit broadcaster.
This ignited a 20-year career empowering others. She's coached over 1,000 individuals to craft compelling narratives that showcase their value to potential employers, and helped students launch successful startups.
But Ruth's secret weapon isn't some magic formula. It's cultivating the "creativity muscle" through continuous learning and fearless action.
Her journey is a testament to courage. From battling childhood ovarian cancer to overcoming public speaking anxiety, she's embraced challenges and grown from them. Now, she inspires organizations like Deutsche Bank, Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and the National Council of Social Services in Singapore on the power of storytelling and collaboration.
Intro & Outro Music:
"Deep Ambient" by Coma-Media
Provided by
www.pixabay.com
What is On Courage?
On Courage is a podcast where unique stories and creative voices are lifted up with gratitude.
We interview and study people that we admire, people who have dared to pursue unconventional and competitive career pathways and life endeavours. People who have tried, failed, succeeded and overcome challenges through exercising courage and creativity.
We're on a mission to showcase people with great passion and ambition; those with valuable insights to contribute to their industries and communities and importantly, with enduring wisdom to pass onto the next generation of creative thinkers and makers.