In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by David Buirs, a leadership coach and expert in guiding emerging leaders to build confidence, develop self-awareness, and lead with authenticity.

We discuss:
- The Leadership Myth: Why being great at your job doesn’t automatically make you a great leader—and what skills are actually required.
- Task vs. People-Focused Leadership: How to find the right balance between driving results and fostering a supportive, engaged team.
- The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership: Why showing your struggles builds trust and respect rather than undermining authority.
- Healthy vs. Toxic Work Environments: How leadership styles impact workplace culture, psychological safety, and innovation.
- Mastering Delegation: Avoiding micromanagement while ensuring your team is challenged and motivated.
- Leadership as Influence: Understanding how managers shape behaviours, company culture, and even the well-being of their teams.
- Preventing Burnout & Sustainable Success: Why rewarding hustle culture over well-being leads to disengagement—and how to shift the mindset for long-term impact.
- Who Are You Without Your Job? Exploring leadership beyond work identity and the deeper questions every leader should ask themselves.

If you're a new or seasoned leader looking to improve your leadership skills, create a more positive team culture, and balance ambition with well-being, this episode is packed with insights to help you grow.

Connect with David:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbuirsleadershipcoaching/

Connect with your Realistic Happiness Community:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realistichappinesspodcast/

Connect with your host, Daisy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daisy.ilaria
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@daisy.ilaria
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaisyIlaria

Connect with our producer, Jamie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamie.everett1/