As we reach the conclusion of the first quarter of the year, I find it relevant to talk about the impact of my New Year’s resolution so far.
Over the past couple of years, I’ve been on a quest to champion the cause of well-being among my peers. As part of this journey, I decided to level up and become a Mental Health First Aider and trainer for mental health well-being. Armed with knowledge, empathy, and a touch of swag, I’ve been on a mission to equip others with the tools they need to navigate the ups and downs of life with confidence and resilience within the workplace. It’s been an exhilarating start to my journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, but knowing that I’m making a real difference in the mental health stigma makes every step worth it.
As the New Year dawned of 2024, I found myself reflecting not only on personal growth but of course on the well-being of those around me. In a world where mental health struggles are often overlooked, I made a conscious decision to make my resolution for 2024 about more than just self-improvement, I’m not made for the gym anyways. Instead, I committed to reaching out to old friends and colleagues each month, not only to catch up but also to check in on their mental health and offer support and an ear where needed. L.E.F.T. is my new mission to help create a culture where conversations about Mental Health in the workplace are normalised, and what better way to keep my knowledge and skills alive but by supporting those I care about closer to home. Normalising this in the workplace will create a better and safer workplace for colleagues and, in turn, improve the productivity of companies, retention, and brand. It’s a win win for everyone.
The journey began with a simple realisation: we never truly know what someone else is going through behind the scenes, we’ve all been there. Social media may paint a picture-perfect image, but beneath the surface, friends may be grappling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges. By making an effort to reconnect, I hoped to create a safe space for honest conversations and genuine connection.
In January, I picked up the phone and called a friend I hadn’t spoken to in years. As we exchanged pleasantries, I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more beneath the surface. With a gentle nudge, they opened up about the struggles they had been facing feelings of loneliness, uncertainty about the future, and a constant battle with their career goals. In that moment, I realised the power of a simple check-in — to let someone know that they are not alone in their struggles and that there is always someone willing to listen.
Since then, each month has brought a new opportunity to reach out to someone from my past—a high school buddy, a friend from my 20’s, and a co-worker from a previous job. And with each conversation, I’ve been reminded of the importance of human connection in navigating life’s ups and downs. Whether it’s offering a listening ear, sharing resources for professional help, or simply being a source of support, I’ve found that even the smallest gestures can make a world of difference to someone in need.
But perhaps the most rewarding aspect of this resolution has been the realisation that showing someone you care doesn’t require grand gestures or extravagant gifts. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple text saying, “Hey, I’ve been thinking about you. How are you doing?” In doing so, I’ve not only rekindled old friendships but also reaffirmed the importance of human connection in my own life, this should not stop within friends and family!
In the hustle and bustle of our professional lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind, exchanging pleasantries with colleagues as we rush from one task to the next. But here’s a thought-provoking question: How often do we genuinely check in on the mental well-being of our peers, pushing past the surface-level “Hi, how are you?” greetings? It’s a crucial inquiry that warrants reflection. Because here’s the deal: a cared-for colleague, one who feels genuinely valued and safe within their professional environment, is bound to give you more. It’s not just about productivity; it’s about fostering a workplace culture where compassion and support reign supreme. So, the next time you pass someone in the hallway or hop on a virtual meeting, consider going beyond the pleasantries. Take a moment to ask how they’re really doing. You might be surprised by the impact a simple gesture can have on someone’s day. After all, building a strong, supportive team starts with genuine human connection.