At PI LIVE Europe this year, Julia Linehan, Founder and CEO of The Digital Voice, sat down with Owen Hancock, RVP Marketing EMEA at impact.com, at the Voicebox stage to discuss the power of self-empathy and its role in improving mental health and career longevity.
Hancock’s candid insights, drawn from his professional journey and a profound personal health challenge, provided many takeaways for fostering balance, reducing burnout, and creating healthier work habits.
If you couldn’t attend, here are the key takeaways alongside the full recording:
Our Key Takeaways
Self-empathy is about removing self-judgment
Hancock defined self-empathy as treating yourself with the same patience and kindness you’d extend to a friend or colleague. It’s about stepping back and understanding that perfection isn’t the goal. “No one expects more of me than I do of myself,” he said. We often place unrealistic pressures on ourselves that others wouldn't burden us with.
Small, realistic habits make a difference
Hancock shared simple practices that help him balance mental health and productivity: journaling, meditation, and exercise. He emphasised the value of ‘five-minute chunks’—manageable time blocks that ensure self-care habits stick. “I know I can always find five minutes in my day,” he noted.
Workload and burnout require personal ownership
Addressing workload pressures, Hancock stressed that individuals must take ownership of their limits. “No one is going to tell you to do less—you need to set realistic expectations yourself,” he advised. By eliminating fear-driven work and prioritising tasks that truly add value, you can create healthier, more productive workflows.
Trauma can catalyse a mindset shift
Hancock openly discussed his experience recovering from a brain tumour—a turning point that forced him to practice patience and kindness with himself. He highlighted the importance of seeking help, such as therapy, and recognising that showing vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Businesses can foster a culture of self-empathy
From phased returns after life-changing events to flexible work policies, Hancock praised companies like impact.com for creating environments that prevent burnout. “It’s not about getting the best out of today—it’s about getting the best out of yourself over several years,” he explained.
Tools to add to your self-care toolkit
Hancock recommended tools like the Headspace app for mindfulness and sleep support, as well as carving out time for reflective practices. “Meditation helps me separate my emotions from who I am. They don’t define me,” he said.
Watch the full session recording below.
