Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions on earth - and one of the most demanding. So why do we so rarely extend to ourselves the care and kindness we pour into others every day?
In this warm, evidence-based guide, positive psychology coach and educator Chris Egan makes a compelling case for self-compassion as the missing ingredient in educator wellbeing. Drawing on 20+ years of robust research, 35 years in education, and the real stories of teachers and school leaders who have transformed their inner lives, this book offers a practical roadmap for moving from burnout and self-criticism towards genuine flourishing.
With reflective prompts, innovative practices, and honest stories from the classroom and beyond, The Flourishing Factor meets educators exactly where they are - and gently, powerfully, invites them somewhere better.
Because the same compassion you give your students? You deserve it, too.
About the Author :
Chris Egan is a positive psychology coach, facilitator and educator with more than 35 years of experience across schools in Australia and the United States. Renowned for his relational style and strengths-based approach, Chris has partnered with hundreds of schools and school leaders to build cultures of wellbeing and resilience. He is passionate about empowering educators to flourish and to show themselves the same compassion they give to others every day.
Review :
The Flourishing Factor is a powerful book for anyone, and especially those of us in the field of education, where it's easy to shoulder the weight of the needs of everyone around us and lose sight of the joy that brought us to the profession in the first place. Expert educator and leadership coach Chris Egan has compiled in one place a wellspring of life-giving insights distilled from decades of research. With clear and accessible language, personal vulnerability and relatable examples, Chris shows us how we, too, can tame the voice of our inner critics and flourish as professionals and human beings - not through grandiose resolutions or sweeping alterations to our lives, but small, yet mighty changes in our daily routines and habits of mind, starting with a bit of self-compassion.
Bryan Goodwin, CEO of the Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL) Institute, and author
Chris skilfully bridges strong scientific evidence with the lived experience of educators, making complex ideas accessible and meaningful. The real stories woven throughout lend credibility and ensure the book resonates deeply within the education landscape and across the wider community.
Dr Michelle McQuaid, wellbeing researcher, author and speaker
Chris captures the essence of what it means to be an educator, in all its beauty and nuance. Through humour, reflective techniques and a rich collection of anecdotes, he artfully illuminates the interplay between science, practice and the diverse wellbeing needs of those working in education. The book translates complex theory into practical, hopeful and empowering strategies that support genuine flourishing for all stakeholders.
Monique Welsh, Assistant Principal (Master of Applied Positive Psychology; MAPP)
