
Leading with Fierce Compassion
Practical Wisdom for Meaningful Change
Mary Miller(Author)
Routledge (Publisher)
1st Edition
Will be published approx. on 11. February 2026
Book
Paperback/Softback
224 pages
978-1-032-95068-6 (ISBN)
Description
Bridging psychological theories on compassion with practical leadership insights, this book explores the transformative power of compassion for navigating the complexities of modern leadership and life.
In a world marked by division, burnout, and uncertainty, this book offers actionable guidance on developing essential skills like self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication. Through a blend of evidence-based research, therapeutic insights, and real-life anecdotes from leaders, the book provides practical tools for cultivating compassion for oneself and others. It highlights the concept of Leading with Fierce Compassion and explores its profound impact on organisational culture, team dynamics, and individual well-being. From navigating conflicts to fostering inclusive work environments and promoting collaboration, this book equips readers with the courage and skills needed to embrace compassion as a means for personal growth, resilience, and authentic leadership. Readers are guided on a journey to deepen their compassion capacity, foster empathetic connections, and take effective action.
The book will be a valuable resource for professionals ranging from mid-level managers to executive leadership positions within business, government, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It will be an asset to any professional interested in psychology or enhancing leadership abilities to cultivate deeper and more meaningful connections with others.
In a world marked by division, burnout, and uncertainty, this book offers actionable guidance on developing essential skills like self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication. Through a blend of evidence-based research, therapeutic insights, and real-life anecdotes from leaders, the book provides practical tools for cultivating compassion for oneself and others. It highlights the concept of Leading with Fierce Compassion and explores its profound impact on organisational culture, team dynamics, and individual well-being. From navigating conflicts to fostering inclusive work environments and promoting collaboration, this book equips readers with the courage and skills needed to embrace compassion as a means for personal growth, resilience, and authentic leadership. Readers are guided on a journey to deepen their compassion capacity, foster empathetic connections, and take effective action.
The book will be a valuable resource for professionals ranging from mid-level managers to executive leadership positions within business, government, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It will be an asset to any professional interested in psychology or enhancing leadership abilities to cultivate deeper and more meaningful connections with others.
Reviews / Votes
'Fierce Compassion is leadership wisdom with heart and spine. Dr. Mary Miller shows us how to lead with clarity, courage, and deep care, without burning out or selling out. If you've ever felt torn between being kind and being strong, this book is your map. Compassion, it turns out, is power.'Tony Fernando, PhD, psychiatrist, author of Life Hacks from the Buddha, New Zealand
'Blending her powerful personal story with deep clinical insight, Dr Mary Miller brings rare humanity to the case for disciplined, Fierce Compassion - as both a way of living and leading. In a world so often marked by conflict, polarisation, and harsh self-judgment, this book is a timely guide. It's written for all of us who've ever been too hard on ourselves or others.'
Galia BarHava, PhD, organisational culture specialist & psychologist, New Zealand
'Leading with Fierce Compassion is a powerful guide for today's leaders, blending psychological insight with practical tools to navigate complexity with integrity. There is wise advice for leaders dealing with a stressful position (that can be lonely) and stressed team members. There is a focus on acceptance of uncomfortable feelings - to be able to sit with them before rushing to fix things. This book is a must-read for leaders and team members, as both need the skills and tools within.'
Bruce Arroll, professor, general practice and primary health care, director of Goodfellow Unit, New Zealand
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
London
United Kingdom
Publishing group
Taylor & Francis Ltd
Target group
College/higher education
Professional and scholarly
General, Postgraduate, and Professional Practice & Development
Illustrations
14 s/w Zeichnungen, 14 s/w Abbildungen
14 Line drawings, black and white; 14 Illustrations, black and white
Dimensions
Height: 234 mm
Width: 156 mm
Thickness: 13 mm
Weight
360 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-032-95068-6 (9781032950686)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

Book
approx. 02/2026
1st Edition
Routledge
€211.30
Not yet published

E-Book
02/2026
1st Edition
Routledge
€45.99
Available for download

E-Book
02/2026
1st Edition
Routledge
€45.99
Available for download
Person
Dr Mary Miller is a Clinical Psychologist and Executive Coach helping leaders develop clarity and courage through Fierce Compassion. She brings together clinical insight and leadership coaching experience from legal, medical, academic and corporate settings across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Content
Acknowledgements
1. Navigating the Age of Overwhelm
Leading with Fierce Compassion
2. Beyond Nice and Kind
Revealing the Power of Compassion
3. Awakening the Soothe System
Fierce Compassion's Role in Leadership
4. Cultivating Compassionate Capacity
The Path of Fierce Compassion
5. Redefining Success
Fierce Compassion for Achievement
6. Breaking Free of Tyranny
Fierce Compassion for Perfectionism
7. The Leadership Balancing Act
Fierce Compassion for Supporting Others
8. Courageous Conversations
Fierce Compassion for Navigating Conflict
9. Bridging the Divide
Fierce Compassion for Embracing Diversity
10. Navigating Complex Systems
Fierce Compassion for the Future of Leadership
11. Embracing Humanity
Fierce Compassion for Leading and Learning
Index
1. Navigating the Age of Overwhelm
Leading with Fierce Compassion
2. Beyond Nice and Kind
Revealing the Power of Compassion
3. Awakening the Soothe System
Fierce Compassion's Role in Leadership
4. Cultivating Compassionate Capacity
The Path of Fierce Compassion
5. Redefining Success
Fierce Compassion for Achievement
6. Breaking Free of Tyranny
Fierce Compassion for Perfectionism
7. The Leadership Balancing Act
Fierce Compassion for Supporting Others
8. Courageous Conversations
Fierce Compassion for Navigating Conflict
9. Bridging the Divide
Fierce Compassion for Embracing Diversity
10. Navigating Complex Systems
Fierce Compassion for the Future of Leadership
11. Embracing Humanity
Fierce Compassion for Leading and Learning
Index