From as early as I can remember I wanted to change the world. I am a liberal to my core, and believe that everyone should have equality of opportunity. I see that the greatest inequities in our time are not just in foreign lands, but in every workplace I encounter. Untrained and unsupported managers are damaging the mental health of those they should be there to serve. I will serve those managers, so that they can be a positive force in their worlds.
I believe in making the workplace a safer, friendlier, and more desirable place to be. In a complex world where creativity leads to profitability, it is crucial that management can hold a space that inspires and where creativity can flourish. I support and coach managers and teams to bring out the best in themselves and those around them.
Self-Determinism
When an individual has control over their life they will create good in every part of their life. I can provide opportunities for people to understand themselves and those around them better so that they can take control of their future. A well supported team showing respect and courage can support each other to become the best versions of themselves. I will support and encourage people to find their way, but it is for each of them to determine what their best self looks like.
Reserved Understanding
I shall be slow to show my emotions and opinions, but quick to show that I understand what those I support are telling me. I will look for the patterns that people and teams exhibit, support them through reflecting upon those behaviours, and help them to create strategies for self-improvement. When those I’m serving are directing their emotional responses to change towards me, I will be compassionate that they are experiencing discomfort and not engage in an emotional response.
Creative Space
I don’t need to have all the answers, and must not pressure myself when I cannot provide one. A team of brains will always be greater than my own alone. I will ask the people I work with what help they need and how I can provide it for them. I will create an environment that allows those around me to think of, speak about, and create the solutions to the problems they aim to solve.
Acknowledgement
I will watch for and acknowledge the positives that I see. I must self-manage any feelings that I experience, whether positive or negative, that may push away those that I am trying to serve. Without acknowledging the good of the now I risk alienating those who have fought and won battles to achieve it. Without acknowledging the bad of now I risk alienating those who are fighting hard to beat it. The place I meet individuals, teams, and organisations in is the place I have to move to in order to support their growth beyond it.
Mental Wellbeing
Toxic environments create toxic behaviours. I look after most those who behave the worst. Dysfunctional behaviour is a symptom of someone who is unable to express what they are feeling or what they need from their environment. I will do my best to build bonds with everyone so that they all feel safe enough to express themselves in a healthy and positive manner. Once people can express their fears, hopes, and dreams, I will support them to overcome the negative and achieve the positive. I will do my best to not exhibit dysfunctions when I enter a toxic environment, and shall strive to know when it is time to leave such a place no matter how hard it is to leave behind those that I love.
Georgina Hughes 