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When spending some time at this year’s MAD World Summit in London (the UK’s biggest mental health event for corporates), it is refreshing to see so many companies and organizations taking the mental health and well-being of their employees seriously and openly. They are also coming up with plans and programs which focus on the individual and see beyond narrow commercial aspects. Attitudes have indeed moved on significantly from the idea of “pull yourself together”, “cheer up, it might never happen” and “have you tried thinking positively?”.
Now, there is much more emphasis on a holistic approach involving a better work/life balance, targeted support and the encouragement of the idea that it is good to talk about worries and concerns in an open way. Showing such a commitment to employee welfare underpins a happier workforce which is more motivated and productive. This, in turn, leads to enhanced efficiency, higher profitability, more loyal employees and a culture built around effective communication. It can also help to break the cycle of high absenteeism.
Even before the pandemic, taking care of everyone on the payroll was a key way to create commercial success. That is no different now as work patterns change with a different mix of home and office working backed up by a greater emphasis on remote communication. However, human relationships retain their dynamism and there remains a fundamental and natural need to have actual contact with our colleagues, customers and clients. Although international business travel will not be quite so frequent (perhaps something of a relief to those of us used to frequent flying), is there ever going to be a substitute for closing the deal or identifying business opportunities in person?
I was interested, therefore to take a moment to catch up with Simon Berger, founding partner of Make A Difference Events and Media and organizer of the event to hear his take on how work patterns have changed. As he explains: “The pandemic has provided a once in a lifetime opportunity to reinvent ways of working that enhance mental health and well-being and create cultures of trust and belonging, where everyone feels safe to speak up and be actively listened to.”
Joining in our animated conversation was Dr Wolfgang Seidel from Mercer Marsh Benefits and he and Simon set out a range of ways to build sustainable inner happiness. While there are many techniques and approaches to follow, here are just a few of the ideas put together to make you wake ready for the day rather than worrying about the hours that lie ahead. Some have resonance too in a world beyond work:
Of course, happiness and better mental health and well-being do not have an on/off switch. It takes effort and focus to make the long-term changes that we need. It is a process which involves ongoing reflection about ourselves and our surroundings holistically.
Founded in 2014 and reimagined in 2019 by Nel-Olivia Waga, HER/etiquette is an international blog rooted in Zurich, and shaped by conscious luxury. It explores global trends and everyday rituals across art, longevity, wellness, innovation, beauty, and design, highlighting brands and individuals who bring meaning and creative solutions to modern living.
Nel-Olivia Waga is the Founder & Publisher of HER/etiquette. She is a Brand Consultant, Author, and Entrepreneur. Her work regularly appears in her FORBES column. She is also the founder of YMPACT LAB, a consultancy that develops innovative concepts for global brands with a focus on purpose and impact.
#ConsciousLuxury is the theme of HER ETIQUETTE. We spotlight pioneers who rethink excellence through transparency, intention, and care for both people and planet. Each story opens a window into what drives meaningful change, whether it’s a new perspective, a responsible approach, or a quiet detail that speaks volumes. It’s our way of inviting more depth into the way we experience modern life.
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