The Power of Small Tip #11: Detach Your Identity from Your Job; Lead with Self-Compassion

The Power of Small: How Little Things Make a Big Difference

Think about the last time something small made a big difference: a word of encouragement, a small idea, a two-minute lesson that stuck. This season on I Love Learning, we’re diving into The Power of Small. Host Dr. Gina Anderson will unpack stories of how learning doesn’t have to be big to be powerful because sometimes, it’s the smallest spark that ignites the biggest change.

For more on the Power of Small, check out Dr. Gina Anderson’s TEDx Raleigh talk “How Microlearning and Connections Transform Us: The Power of Being Present,”.

I Love Learning Podcast, S3 EP11: Melissa Cohen

Melissa Cohen is a personal branding and LinkedIn strategist who helps professionals clarify their voice, build authority, and lead with authenticity. In this episode, Melissa shares her journey from corporate fashion to entrepreneurship after losing her dream job in 2020, a pivotal moment that forced her to confront a powerful question: Who am I without my job? That moment of uncertainty became the small but mighty catalyst that reshaped her life and work.

Melissa is also a co-author of the Amazon bestselling book Letters to Lily, where “LILY” stands for Lessons in Leadership and Loving Yourself. She shares how learning to separate identity from job titles, practicing self-compassion, and rewriting the stories we tell ourselves are essential to sustainable success. Her message is clear: personal branding isn’t about self-promotion, it’s about self-trust, alignment, and showing up as who you truly are.

Throughout the conversation, Melissa reminds us that growth doesn’t come from massive, sweeping changes, but from small, intentional shifts, being kinder to ourselves, honoring our experiences, and allowing our stories to evolve. When you lead with heart and clarity, everything else begins to fall into place.

Tip: Detach Your Identity from Your Job; Lead with Self-Compassion

Be sure to connect with Melissa using the link below:

Check out this week’s episode:
Never miss an episode! Be sure to subscribe to the I Love Learning Podcast with Dr. Gina Anderson on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.