Episode 14: How To Go On from Loss with Compassion with Ken Druck, Ph.D.

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Ken Druck, a true Thought Leader in the areas of Healing after loss, Resilience, and Courageous Aging. He teaches us how to go on in times of adversity, grief, and familial crises. His most recent book, How We Go On: Self-Compassion, Courage, and Gratitude on the Path Forward, highlights his expertise and personal journey with tragedy.

Ken is a renowned figure in the fields of psychology and personal transformation. Today, he’ll tell you what steps you can take toward what he calls ‘professional grade self-care’ if you’re dealing with tragedy or crisis and to make it okay that you aren’t okay. In addition, he’ll share The Seven Honorings and The Resilience Response, plus a whole lot more.

I’m so glad I get to call Ken a friend. He has been there for me personally in miraculous ways, as well as with thousands of people navigating challenging circumstances. He’s gifted in his ability to help you with the ‘what now’ moment that comes with facing divorce, getting an unfavorable diagnosis, or dealing with an unexpected accident. When life changes and the challenge you’re facing feels impossible, Ken reminds you of miracles and opportunities in their midst.

Today, Ken shares his personal ‘what now moment’ when his beloved daughter Jenna passed away. He’ll talk about how he discovered a newfound courage to move forward in honor and reverence for his incredible loss. 

Ken beautifully acknowledges that some life challenges, pains, and losses cannot be wished away or soothed by a simple affirmation. Going on requires attention and grace. 

Join me today for a profound episode where you’ll hear how you can begin to find miracles in the most impossible circumstances. Dr. Ken Druck is the lifeline we all need.

“Our willingness and ability to meet life’s changes, challenges, crises, losses, and opportunities, determine the quality of our lives.”  – Ken Druck, Ph.D.

What we talked about:

  • Acknowledging the Miracle in the room (3:36) 
  • Ken’s story of coping with the traumatic loss of his daughter Jenna (5:09)  
  • The first steps to moving forward from trauma or crisis (9:42) 
  • The Seven Honorings and The Resilience Response (14:41)  
  • The miracle of health, getting to experience this now moment and healing through music (19:38)
  • How Ken moved from victim to victor in life (24:43)

Favorite quotes from the episode:

  • “I don’t have the luxury of being a pleaser and accommodator, deferring, hiding, denying, or repressing what I really feel when I’m in a crisis. I don’t have that luxury, I need self-care.” – Ken Druck, Ph.D. 
  • The first step is to make sure that my foot is off my throat and my hand is on my heart. It’s to show myself every kindness. And I don’t care what kind of a loss, change, or crisis somebody is going through; make sure that the voice you speak to yourself with is not the voice of self-criticism, judgment, impatience, rushing, punishment, or unforgiveness. Simply move that hand down to your heart. And speak to yourself with kindness, patience, understanding, and forgiveness” – Ken Druck, Ph.D.

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