201. How to bounce back when work & life falls apart (our true story)

🎙️ Welcome Back to Truth, Lies & Work

The award-winning psychology podcast from the HubSpot Podcast Network, hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott.

This week, Al and Leanne open up about their recent experience of having to leave Bosnia & Herzegovina within 48 hours — an abrupt move that turned their lives, business, and plans upside down.

From that real-life test of resilience, they share eight tips (plus a bonus) that helped them stay calm, adapt fast, and keep moving forward. No theory here — just honest insights and practical advice for anyone dealing with unexpected change.

🗝️ What We’re Talking About Today
– How to navigate those gut-punch moments when plans fall apart
– Why flexibility and small wins are your best friends in a crisis
– The surprising upside of letting go of “perfect plans”
– The power of leaning on your network and asking for help
– How self-compassion isn’t fluffy — it’s essential
– One bonus tip to help you prepare for the unexpected

💡 Key Tips From the Episode

1. Acknowledge the shock — Accept it, don’t bury it.

2. Prioritise immediate actions — What must be done today?

3. Stay flexible — Let go of perfect plans, adapt fast.

4. Lean on your support network — Don’t try to do it alone.

5. Focus on what you can control — Stay steady by narrowing your focus.

6. Don’t be afraid to break commitments — Boundaries over burnout.

7. Self-compassion matters — Stress is real and human.

8. Look for silver linings — Find growth in the chaos.
   Bonus: Small habits now can make the big shocks easier later.

   
   

🔗 Support With Mental Health and Well-being
– Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/
– Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
– Mental Health at Work: https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/

💬 Connect with Al & Leanne
– Truth, Lies & Work on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/
– Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/
– Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne/
– Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com
– Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

🎧 Loved this episode?
Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear these reminders. Everyone hits roadblocks — what matters is how we rise.