In our pursuit of productivity and success, we often overlook a critical dimension: human well-being. Now more than ever, nurturing our whole selves is key for sustainable high performance. Let’s explore insights from Brene Brown and Tony Robbins on elevating wellbeing, plus the practical role elements like the fold up desk can play in empowering teams and individuals.
The Courage of Emotional Openness
Bringing our real, imperfect selves to work requires courage. According to acclaimed researcher Dr Brene Brown, embracing uncertainty through vulnerability is critical for innovation and collaboration. Rather than weakness, she views opening ourselves up as demonstrating strength.
What Emotional Openness Looks Like In Practice
What does emotional openness look like day-to-day? It means sincerely sharing creative ideas even when success isn't guaranteed. Building trust gradually through small personal disclosures like talking about a difficult situation you faced or a weekend hobby you enjoy.
Sharing Creative Ideas and Admitting Mistakes
Admitting mistakes candidly when things go wrong rather than pointing fingers or shifting blame. Extending sincere compassion towards colleagues when stress runs high on a deadline rather than snapping in frustration.
Listening Without Judgement
It also means listening without judgment when someone shares an opinion you disagree with. Making space for humour and levity to lift spirits during exhausting stretches. Speaking up when a team member seems withdrawn and checking in on how they're doing. Bringing empathy into performance conversations rather than cold criticism.
Essentially, it's embracing that all humans have bad days and good days emotionally. We all experience uncertainty, frustration, and disappointment at times. By giving each other grace and focusing on the shared mission, teams access deeper reserves of strength and innovation.
The Benefits of Vulnerability at Work
This degree of emotional openness and support lays the foundation for agility even in uncertainty. It enables tackling complex, evolving challenges together while still making space to support each individual's needs.
Builds Trust and Authentic Connection
By bravely bringing our real, imperfect yet sincere selves to work each day, we pave the way for authentic human connection and create fertile ground where our teams and organisations can truly grow and thrive. The benefits of rising together through vulnerability are immeasurable.
Of course, safe emotional spaces rely on prioritising mental health. Teacher Tony Robbins stresses that our mindset - how we see ourselves and the world - shapes our actions, results, and well-being.
Choosing Courage Over Armoring Up
Making mental health a priority through reasonable workloads, flexible schedules, and access to support builds resilience for weathering stress. Promoting open dialogue about mental health diminishes stigma. Empowering teams with mindfulness reduces anxiety.
Focusing on the Collective Mission
In psychologically safe environments, we gain the courage to acknowledge when the time for self-care or a reset is needed. People come before productivity. Imagine the potential when teams feel securely empowered mentally and emotionally.
Optimising Physical Spaces
Workspace design also profoundly impacts team well-being. For example, access to outdoor green spaces provides cognitive restoration during breaks. Shared lounges foster community. Providing equipment like the fold up desk enables workers to quickly adapt spaces for changing needs.
Even small elements like plants, artwork, and calming colours reduce stress. Purposeful design choices benefit wellbeing while boosting focus and creativity.
For remote workers, thoughtfully organising home workspaces is equally important. The Murphy Desk allows smooth transitioning of dining rooms or bedrooms into professional work zones then folding away clutter to decompress. Dedicated spaces, proper lighting, and ergonomic seating all help empower teams’ well-being and performance.
Here are some simple ways to optimise a fold up desk home workspace:
- Incorporate calming accents like plants, artwork, and cheerful desk organisers
- Ensure proper lighting for tasks and use natural light when possible
- Alternate sitting and standing with height-adjustable desks or platforms
- Use comfortable, supportive chairs and wrist pads
- Minimise clutter and distractions in the workspace
- Create routines around opening/closing the office area
Essentially, human-centric office environments, whether in-person or remote, allow people to thrive holistically by making space for renewal and authentic connection. The physical atmosphere reflects the priority of nurturing humanity within each employee.
Key Takeaways
By bravely nurturing emotional health, empowering mental well-being, and designing thoughtful spaces, organisations can unlock sustainable achievement. The path towards maintaining passion and purpose is continuous. But the end goal is joyful work where our best selves thrive.
Stay tuned next week as we continue exploring insights from thought leaders on elevating employee experience through intentional workspace design and whole-person wellness practices. Click Here!
