Human First, Leader Second

A self-compassion blueprint for leaders who are closed-off, constantly on the verge of burnout, and/or trapped in the myth of perfectionism.

Through this 6-step framework, leaders will learn that self-compassion is for the strong, to separate their title from their person, and how to care for themselves in order to care for others.

So many leadership and compassion books seek to remind leaders to “behave human” and treat those around them with care. But the truth is that leaders are human. They’re not playing at being human or calling forth their humanity on demand. Their struggle in marrying leadership and compassion stems from leaders ignoring self-care—the lack of compassion toward their subordinates is just a symptom.

Human First, Leader Second introduces leaders to the practice of self-compassion through a 6-step framework designed to ease even the most hard-headed and hard-assed leaders into thoughtful, and productive, introspection. 

• Backward: Biography, Biology, Backstory
• Forward: Purpose, Values, Priorities
• Inward: Intentions, Feelings, Thoughts
• Outward: Intent, Actions, Behaviors
• Leeward: Self-care and Personal Accountability
• Wayward: Regret and Self-forgiveness

Offering strategies for a personalized exploration of self-compassion—and what works best for the individual—this book will help leaders grow awareness to the importance of self-care while debunking the myth that compassion equals weakness. Regardless of our title or influence, we are all humans first, who need compassion."Backus proves that the best leaders are self-compassionate; to truly care for others, start with yourself."
—Philip Rowley, CFO, Sony Pictures Entertainment
 
“This work is the blueprint for the future of leadership. As leaders, we can only be successful and impactful if we look in the mirror and address ourselves first, and Massimo is a mastermind when it comes to self-compassion.”
—Geoffrey Roche, Director of Workforce Development, Siemens
 
"A refreshing take on leadership that showcases the undeniable strength found in kindness to oneself. This book compellingly argues for self-regard as the source code to play the infinite game of leadership."
—Paul Spiegelman, cofounder of Small Giants Community
 
“Backus has shown us that as leaders, self-kindness is not a luxury or a weakness but a strategic advantage."
—Scott Shute, author of The Full Body Yes and founder of Changing Work
 
“This book delivers a master class in self-compassion, offering actionable tools for transformative leadership that begins with oneself.”
—Julie Winkle Giulioni, author of Promotions Are So Yesterday and coauthor of Help Them Grow or Watch Them GoMassimo Backus is a master facilitator, speaker, leadership coach, and the host of The Leadership Mind podcast. He has coached and consulted companies such as Amazon, Nintendo, Salesforce, Fox Entertainment, and Cisco. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Organizational Behavioral Psychology along with certifications and credentials in DISC, MBTI, Hogan Assessment, Korn Ferry Architect, Co-Active Coaching Certification, ORSC (Organization and Relationship Systems Coaching) Certification and is a Hoffman Process Graduate.