Hello and welcome to the final episode of My Pocket Psych for 2025. In this brief episode, I take a look ahead to the benefits of side-stepping unhelpful messages about the New Year, and how small changes, personal experiments and a fresh start might be what we all need instead.

No matter what holiday you're celebrating in December, I hope you get a chance to effectively disconnect from work. I hope you get a chance to engage in whatever traditions bring you a sense of meaning and purpose, and really importantly, get a chance to relax and enjoy yourself.

I'll be back in touch in 2026, but until then, I wish you an excellent holiday.

Thanks for listening!

Resources mentioned in this episode

• The WorkLifePsych Newsletter - https://www.worklifepsych.news
• The People Soup podcast by Ross McIntosh - https://rossmcintosh.co.uk/people-soup/
• Episode 200 - https://www.worklifepsych.com/podcast
• Join our online personal development community, WorkLifeSpark - https://www.worklifespark.com/sign-up
• Find out more about our January masterclass - Fresh starts in Wellbeing https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fresh-starts-in-wellbeing-tickets-1687257284959?aff=oddtdtcreator

In this special celebratory 200th episode, we turn the tables: Richard is in the hot seat and interviewed by friend of the show, Ross McIntosh.

Ross asks Richard about the origins of the show, what he learnt over 199 episodes, how he's changed and what lessons he'd share with others. We look at popular episodes, why psychics don't get invited on, and answer a series of questions from listeners.

The show wouldn't exist without its listeners. So a massive thank you to everyone who's ever given the show a chance. Huge thanks to everyone who has ever written in with feedback, questions and ideas. And, of course, thanks to the many guests and contributors who shared their time and expertise over the last eight years. Thanks also to Ross for being a fantastic host and interviewer.

To make the next 200 episodes even better, feel free to get in touch with your feedback and suggestions. Email us at 'podcast at worklifepsych dot com'.

Finally - a link to the song that lends its title to this episode: 'I'm still here' performed by the legendary Elaine Stritch.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Ep 182: Dealing with workplace challenges using psychological flexibility - https://www.worklifepsych.com/podcast/182/

• Ep 102: Building psychological safety - https://www.worklifepsych.com/podcast/102/

• Ep 156: Psychological inflexibility - https://www.worklifepsych.com/podcast/156/

• Ep168: Menopause at work with Kara Daly - https://www.worklifepsych.com/podcast/168/

• WorkLifeSpark - https://www.worklifespark.com/sign-up

Richard is once again joined by fellow psychologist Ross McIntosh to discuss the importance of coping with difficulties and setbacks - especially when it comes to leadership roles.

They outline the inevitability of challenges and the importances of using healthy and sustainable coping strategies in response. They look at why some of the more unhealthy and unhelpful strategies are so attractive and present some simple and accessible alternatives.

Thanks for listening!

And we hope you'll join us for the livestream of our 200th episode on Monday 8th December at 4pm UK time. Join our Zoom call via https://www.mypocketpsych.com/200

You'll be able to pose your questions, share your feedback and anything else you'd like. We'd love to see you there. And if you can't make it, feel free to send in your questions and comments in advance. Just email us 'podcast at worklifepsych dot com'.

Ep 198: Self-care for leaders - https://www.worklifepsych.com/podcast/198

Ep 189: Burnout – signs and symptoms - https://www.worklifepsych.com/podcast/189

Ep 190: Burnout – recognition and recovery - https://www.worklifepsych.com/podcast/190

Find out more about sustainable leadership here: https://www.worklifepsych.com/sustainableleadership

Find out about our approach to wellbeing at work here: https://www.worklifepsych.com/wellbeing