Wellbeing | Workplace Mental Health Institute

Why Forced Positivity Could Be Breaking Your Team

21/08/2025

I was in a meeting once when someone mentioned burnout. You could feel the air change like everyone held their breath for a moment. Nobody spoke. Then someone chirped up with, “Let’s just focus on the positives!”

It was meant to lighten the mood. But the way people shifted in their seats, you could tell it didn’t really land. The silence that followed wasn’t relief. It was the kind of quiet that says, “We don’t talk about this here.”

I’ve seen it happen in plenty of workplaces. A team member admits they’re swamped, maybe even at breaking point, and instead of space to share, they get lines like:

“Just stay positive.”

“Count your blessings.”

“Others have it worse.”

They sound harmless, even kind. But sometimes they shut the door on real conversation. That’s when toxic positivity sneaks in.

What Is Toxic Positivity?

It’s that unspoken expectation to be upbeat, all the time, no matter what’s going on. In a workplace, it can look like:

“We don’t do negativity here.”

“Good vibes only.”

“Let’s not dwell on problems.”

A bit of positivity is healthy. But when it replaces empathy, it sends a message that some feelings don’t belong. People keep things to themselves. Stress builds up. Burnout follows.

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Why It’s a Mental Health Awareness Issue

A healthy workplace isn’t one where everyone says they’re “fine.” It’s one where you can be honest and know you won’t be judged or punished for it.

When staff feel like they can’t speak openly, trust takes a hit. Morale slips. Productivity goes with it. And eventually, good people leave not because they can’t do the job, but because the culture doesn’t feel safe.

That’s why smart organisations put time into mental health awareness programs, strong leadership training, and anti bullying training in the workplace. Toxic positivity might seem softer than workplace bullying, but both can leave people feeling silenced.

What Actually Helps

Positivity doesn’t need to disappear. It just needs to leave room for honesty too.

A few ways to start:

Listen first — sometimes that’s all they need.

Acknowledge feelings — a simple “That sounds tough” can help.

Make openness normal — it’s not weakness to admit you’re struggling.

Train managers — so they spot the signs early and respond with care.

Create safe channels — regular check-ins, policies, and training that show it’s okay to speak up.

It’s Not About Being Negative

At the Workplace Mental Health Institute, we’ve seen the change that happens when teams move away from forced cheerfulness and towards genuine care.

It’s not about inviting negativity. It’s about making room for the truth. That’s how trust grows. That’s how teams stay engaged.

Our programs — from Mental Health Essentials to anti bullying training in the workplace — are built to help leaders and teams create respectful, supportive environments where people can bring their real selves to work.

Because if your team can talk about the hard stuff? They can handle just about anything together.

Author: Peter Diaz

Peter Diaz is the CEO of Workplace Mental Health Institute. He’s an author and accredited mental health social worker with senior management experience. Having recovered from his own experience of bipolar depression, Peter is passionate about assisting organisations to address workplace mental health issues in a compassionate yet results-focussed way. He’s also a Dad, Husband, Trekkie and Thinker.

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Why Good People Leave Without Making a Fuss

04/08/2025

Sometimes, your best worker just calls you in for a quick chat.

No problems raised. No obvious tension. Just a quiet “Thanks for everything—I’ve decided to move on.”

And you sit there wondering,

“Since when?”

Truth is, top performers rarely kick up a stink. They put their head down, get things done, and help others stay on track. They don’t shout when something’s off—they just slowly stop showing up in the same way. Not physically, but emotionally.

And by the time you notice, they’re already halfway out the door.

It Doesn’t Come Out of Nowhere

It’s rarely about one big thing. Usually, it builds up over time.

One day, they’re not as chatty. They say less in meetings. They start declining invites. No one thinks much of it—they’re just “busy” or “a bit quiet lately.”

But in their mind, they’re already weighing up their next move.

And if no one checks in, they’ll take it.

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Money Isn’t Always the Dealbreaker

A pay rise might tempt someone to leave. But it’s often not the root cause.

More often, it’s that feeling of being overlooked. Of doing the hard yards and wondering if anyone even notices. Or being stuck doing the same thing, with no chance to stretch or grow.

Sometimes, it’s because they’re tired of cleaning up other people’s messes. Other times, it’s deeper—they just don’t feel like they fit anymore.

That’s where mental health awareness training can make a difference. Not as a box to tick, but as a tool to actually understand what your team needs—before you lose them.

The Real Loss Isn’t in the Job Title

You don’t just lose a role when someone leaves. You lose their insight. Their history with the company. The way they hold the team together behind the scenes.

You lose a sounding board. A calming presence. Someone who genuinely gave a damn.

And when they walk, others start thinking…

“If they’re going, should I be looking too?”

This is why culture matters more than ever. Having an anti-bullying course is great, but it’s not enough. What matters is whether people feel safe, supported, and respected—every day, not just during induction.

If You Want to Keep Them, Start Here

Forget gimmicks. Here’s what works:

Ask real questions.

Not the fluffy ones. Ask, “Is there something we’re not doing well?” or “What would make work better for you?”

Give them room.

If someone’s ready to take on more, let them. Let them mess it up a bit. That’s how people grow—and growth keeps people engaged.

Say thanks, and mean it.

Not just for smashing goals. For showing up with a good attitude. For staying late when no one asked. For keeping the mood up during tough weeks.

Address the hard stuff.

If someone isn’t pulling their weight, speak up. Staying silent sends the wrong message to the people who are showing up every day.

Look after their mental space.

Check in. Make time. Join in on the little things, like workplace chats or activities for mental health month. It shows you care, even when things are busy.

Make Work Somewhere They Want to Be

People don’t just leave for better jobs. They leave when they feel like no one’s paying attention.

But they stay when they’re challenged. When they’re trusted. When they feel like their work means something.

You don’t have to be perfect. Just real.

Maybe now’s the time to ask,

“How’s work feeling lately?”

And really listen.

Because once someone’s made their mind up, your chance to keep them has already passed.

Author: Peter Diaz

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The Quiet Shift Happening in Our Workplaces

23/07/2025

A while ago, I read a piece about this so-called “loneliness epidemic.” I didn’t think much of it at first. Just another buzzword, right?

But then I remembered someone I used to work with.

She showed up. Got her work done. Seemed fine. But over time, her energy started to dip. Her camera was off more often than not. She didn’t speak much in meetings. And then one afternoon, out of nowhere, she said, “I don’t think I’ve talked to anyone all week.”

It hit me. We were working in the same team — daily. And still, she felt that alone.

It made me wonder how many others are feeling that way too — and just aren’t saying it.

Loneliness Doesn’t Shout. It Slips In.

The thing about loneliness at work is that it doesn’t come with a big warning sign.

No one really says, “Hey, I’m feeling disconnected.” They just start to withdraw. Quietly.

They still show up. Still meet deadlines. But something’s missing — the spark, the motivation, the sense of belonging. And over time, it affects more than just morale. It shows up in productivity, engagement, even absenteeism.

In fact, we’re seeing more workplaces turn to burnout prevention strategies without realising that, sometimes, burnout starts with disconnection.

Some Workplaces Are Getting It Right

We’ve seen a shift lately. Employers are investing more in mental health training for managers. These aren’t just compliance sessions — they’re about helping leaders pick up on the quiet stuff. The changes in tone. The subtle signs someone’s struggling.

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It’s also become common to run corporate mental health training workshops, especially around Mental Health Month. These programs don’t just talk about anxiety or stress — they also encourage activities for mental health month that get people talking, connecting, sharing something beyond to-do lists.

More teams are also using employee wellbeing programs that go beyond fruit bowls and yoga apps. They’re creating space — even just a few minutes — for check-ins that feel real.

It Doesn’t Have To Be Big

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you don’t need to be a psychologist to support your team’s mental health.

You just have to be willing to notice.

It’s saying, “How are you going, really?” and being okay with the answer taking longer than 10 seconds. It’s recognising that some people don’t need solutions — just someone who listens.

And if you’re a leader? Having access to a mental health awareness course or anxiety management course might not just help your team — it might help you, too.

Because loneliness might be quiet. But connection? That’s powerful.

Author: Peter Diaz

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Is Social Media Fuelling a Youth Mental Health Crisis?

19/03/2024

Digital interactions have become central to our daily lives, especially for the younger generations. The pervasive use of social media among teenagers has led to growing concern about its impact on their mental health. Now, school boards, municipalities and parents across the country are taking social media companies to court in an effort to curb their influence on young minds. New York City is the latest to mount an offensive against social media, prompting many to question how these platforms affect our well-being.

Taking Social Media to Court

New York City announced a major move against social media companies in February, filing a lawsuit against TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube.

The lawsuit claims these platforms harm the mental health of young people, costing the city $100 million yearly for related health services. It has accused the companies of knowingly creating addictive platforms that cause serious damage to users.

This lawsuit coincides with heightened attention from media and lawmakers regarding the platforms’ impact on teenagers’ mental health and self-image. The city’s legal step is part of a broader push to make these companies responsible, calling to mind previous campaigns against other public health challenges with tobacco and guns.

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New York City is not the only entity taking social media to court. Dozens of states and hundreds of school boards across the country have filed cases, starting with Seattle over a year ago. They affirm that social media companies are knowingly fuelling a mental health crisis among youth with their intentionally addictive platform designs. Hundreds of parents are joining them in filing lawsuits for harm caused to their children.

The U.S. Surgeon General published guidance last year warning of the serious risks social media poses to kids and teens, calling for more research and action from both lawmakers and tech firms. The message is clear: we must make the digital world safer for our young people. But it’s also important to equip our children with the mental resilience needed to navigate the digital world safely.

Looking at the Bigger Picture

It is obviously time for us as a society to take a deeper look at how social media impacts our mental health. Given how much time the average teen spends using these platforms (4.8 hours a day) — not to mention the average adult (2.5 hours a day) — it is important to understand the effects they can have on our well-being.

Social media giant Meta has been accused of using algorithms intentionally crafted to tap into the dopamine-driven reward systems of young users, based on documents leaked by a whistleblower in 2021. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward, which plays a crucial role in addiction. The design of these platforms allegedly exploits this biological mechanism, encouraging continual engagement by triggering these pleasure signals.

The dangers of such addictive designs have been linked to tragic consequences for teens, including a higher incidence of negative body image, low self-esteem, eating disorders, and suicide. Investigations into the suicide of a 14-year-old in the UK indicated that overexposure to social media content likely worsened her pre-existing depression. However, social media companies have denied responsibility, insisting that their products follow rigorous safety protocols.

Scientific research into social media’s influence has found both positive and negative effects on those who use the platforms regularly. Some highlight the beneficial aspects, such as social connections, peer support, and open discussion which can enhance mental well-being and foster a sense of belonging. However, other studies have found a correlation between heavy social media use and increased feelings of loneliness, decreased life satisfaction, and heightened anxiety.

The bigger picture indicates that while social media can be a positive source of social support, it’s important to be aware of its downsides, especially with overuse. Teaching young people about these risks and about how to use social media wisely is crucial to building a healthier, more positive online life.

Empowering Our Youth

What can we do to start empowering young people to take control of their mental health today? We don’t need to wait for new laws to be passed to begin improving our social media habits. Educating ourselves about safe online practices, discussing our online experiences, and encouraging open conversations about social media’s impact can empower users to navigate these platforms more wisely.

By creating an environment where mental health topics are openly discussed, we can destigmatize mental health issues and encourage young people to seek help when needed. These discussions can take place in various settings, from schools and homes to online communities, making it clear that it’s okay to talk about mental health struggles and seek support. Open dialogue can lead to greater empathy and community support, which are vital in building a supportive network for anyone facing mental health challenges.

In addition to promoting open conversations, building mental resilience is key to empowering young people to overcome difficult experiences. This involves teaching coping skills, such as stress management techniques, problem-solving, and emotional regulation, which can help them adapt to adversity and bounce back from difficult situations.

Encouraging healthy habits like regular physical activity, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices can also strengthen mental resilience. If young people are equipped with the right tools and support, they can build their ability to navigate through tough times with strength and confidence. These are skills that will serve them throughout the rest of their lives.

Strategies for Parents: Building Mental Resilience and Healthy Online Habits

Limit time on social media to avoid overexposure and addictive behavior
Educate kids about the risks of social media and how the platforms are designed to keep them coming back for more
Start a conversation with your teenager about what kind of interactions they have on social media and how these make them feel
Discuss the lawsuits against social media with your teen and encourage them to think about different points of view on the issue
Promote a positive mindset in the face of negative experiences: “It’s ok, I don’t need that person in my life!” or “This hurts now, but I’ll get over it!”
Encourage teens to question what they’re seeing on social media
Take an active role in teaching your kids about mental health and healthy routines like sleep, exercise and diet
Find positive uses for social media — encourage teens to give supportive comments and share inspiring stories

In Conclusion

The recent lawsuits against social media platforms are groundbreaking, urging us to seriously consider the influence these platforms have on young people’s mental health. They challenge us to rethink our engagement with social media and demand meaningful changes from those who manage these platforms.

At the same time, these events underscore the need to actively build mental resilience and healthy habits that can counteract negative influences in our lives. Everyone has a role in shaping a future where social media supports rather than harms our mental health. Let’s seize this chance to advocate for a digital world that fosters positive connections and promotes mental well-being.

Gwyneth Chew

WMHI Wellbeing Correspondent

SOURCES

https://edition.cnn.com/2024/02/14/tech/new-york-city-sues-social-media-platforms-youth-mental-health/index.html

https://www.reuters.com/legal/judge-says-social-media-companies-must-face-lawsuits-over-harm-children-2023-11-14/

https://www.reuters.com/legal/dozens-us-states-sue-meta-platforms-harming-mental-health-young-people-2023-10-24/

https://www.edweek.org/policy-politics/school-district-lawsuits-against-social-media-companies-are-piling-up/2024/01

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/05/23/health/social-media-kids-surgeon-general-advisory-wellness/index.html

https://news.gallup.com/poll/512576/teens-spend-average-hours-social-media-per-day.aspx

https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2024-deep-dive-the-time-we-spend-on-social-media

https://bmcpsychology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40359-023-01243-x

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9915628/

What Is Behavioural Health and How Does It Differ From Mental Health?

25/05/2022

Behavioural health and mental health are often used interchangeably. But they do not mean the same thing. While they both revolve around the mind and its ability to function normally, they are different in definition and types.

Mental health deals with an individual’s ability to handle significant life stressors, work productively, and function in society. On the other hand, behavioural health revolves around the impact one’s habits have on physical and mental health.

This article delves into the significant differences between the two. By knowing what sets them apart, you will better understand your psychology and its role in your life.

Understanding Behavioural Health

Most people are familiar with mental health issues, as it is a common social topic backed by several campaigns to raise awareness. However, very few people know and understand behavioural health. Interestingly, the behavioural health concept has been around for over 40 decades.

Over time, the term’s meaning has changed, making more people mistake it for mental health. So, what does behavioural health mean?

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Behavioural health deals with how your daily mental habits affect your overall well-being, biological emotions, and behavior. Everything from what you eat to how you stay fit impacts your mental and physical health.

This is why behavioural health manifests in several ways. Also, several factors affect this condition, namely:

Trauma
Medication
Chronic health issues
Relationships
Diet
Alcohol and drug use
Exercise habits

Behavioural patterns are crucial in assessments conducted by healthcare professionals. For instance, a behavioural health therapist treating an anorexic person will first look at the behaviors that triggered their weight loss. The identification helps in developing treatment methods that address the core issues.

Examples of Behavioural Health Disorders

The following are examples of behavioural health issues:

Substance Abuse/Addiction

Data shows that about 21 million Americans have at least one addiction, but only 10% get treatment. Addiction is a severe disease that sometimes has fatal consequences. Unfortunately, people addicted to drugs or alcohol often fail to acknowledge their addiction even when it affects their relationships and causes health problems.

Common symptoms of this behavioural health disorder include:

Using the additive substance more than once daily
Spending money on the addictive substance even when unable to afford it
Driving under the influence
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you fail to consume the substance or after quitting

Addiction also affects one’s physical health and cognitive ability. If you are struggling with substance abuse/addiction, you will experience a lack of energy or a weight change.

Gambling

Gambling in moderation is socially acceptable behavior, as evidenced by the casinos in Las Vegas. However, the story is different when dealing with gambling addiction. Approximately 1% of the adult population in the U.S. has a gambling problem.

People with a gambling addiction feel an uncontrollable urge to buy lottery tickets, play slot machines at casinos, bet on sports, etc. The severity of the behavior varies, but if you have this condition, you will keep gambling despite financial, social, and legal consequences.

If you have a gambling problem, you will exhibit one or more of the following behaviors:

Obsession with any gambling type
Taking large and insensible risks when gambling
Skipping work or other commitments to gamble
Stealing money and selling possessions
Gambling to feel better about life

Sex Addiction

Sex addiction was excluded in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This is because there remains controversy on the diagnosis of sex addiction as a mental health problem. But it qualifies as a behavioural health condition.

Sex addiction is a compulsive need to perform sexual acts to achieve the type of feeling or emotion a person with a substance addiction gets from drugs or alcohol. It negatively impacts a person’s mental and physical health, including relationships, life quality, and safety.

Common symptoms include:

Chronic, obsessive sexual thoughts and fantasies
Feelings of remorse or guilt after sex
Lying to cover sexual behaviors
Compulsive intercourse with multiple partners
Inability to control or stop sexual behaviors

Eating Disorder

Eating disorders qualify as behavioural and mental health conditions. Statistics show that it affects at least 9% of the population worldwide. Also, 9% of the U.S. population, or 28.8 million Americans, will have an eating disorder in their lifetime.

This condition causes severe health problems and, in extreme cases, death. Common eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, binge eating, and avoidant and restrictive intake disorders. Others are night-eating syndrome and purging disorder.

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health deals with one’s ability to relate with others, their environment, and develop skills in managing stressful behaviors. It revolves around social, psychological, and emotional health. As a result, it plays a crucial role in your overall well-being.

This is why there are several conversations on ways to manage one’s mental health effectively. Usually, this involves knowing how to manage personal relationships, deal with stressors, and embrace positivity.

So, no matter your age or stage in life, ensure you take active steps to protect your mental health. Failure to do this has long-lasting consequences that affect different areas of your life. You can, do the following to maintain your mental health:

Getting therapy and counseling
Following a healthy fitness routine
Staying in contact with friends and loved ones
Eating gut healthy meals
Dealing with relationship problems in a healthy and productive way

Some mental health disorders are moderately linked to behaviors like:

Bipolar disorder
Schizophrenia
Depression
Anxiety disorder

However, there are mental health problems that are strongly connected with behavior. These include:

Personality Disorders

A person with this ailment deals with thinking patterns and behaviors that stray from the norm and cause problems with their day-to-day functioning. Some of the common personality disorders are:

Borderline personality disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Histrionic personality disorder
Narcissistic personality disorder

Symptoms vary from one to the next, and medical professionals classify them in different clusters.

Psychotic Disorders

People with this disease deal with abnormal thoughts and perceptions about other people. One common psychotic ailment is delusional disorder. These often result in delusions and hallucinations, and the person affected loses touch with reality.

This explains why people dealing with psychotic disorders see and hear unreal things. Early warning signs of these disorders include:

Feeling suspicious when with other people
Trouble differentiating between fantasy and reality
Withdrawing from family and friends

The Link Between Behavioural Health and Mental Health

Unhealthy habits tend to characterize most behavioural health disorders. But, since behavioural health problems usually co-occur with mental illness, it makes it hard to draw a line between the two.

For instance, anxiety disorder and borderline personality disorder are two conditions commonly diagnosed as a behavioural health disorder and a mental health illness. This is because the two share a common cause: trauma.

Also, constantly engaging in harmful behaviors like using drugs and alcohol might result in behavioural disorders and mental health conditions. These similar triggers make it harder to diagnose the two accurately. As a result, diagnosis is primarily subjective and conducted on a person-to-person basis.

Therefore, to effectively develop a treatment plan for behavioural health and mental health disorders, the medical practitioner must be able to draw a line between the two. Usually, they do this by asking specific questions related to your symptoms.

The Importance of Getting Treatment

At present, the gold standard for treatment plans for behavioural health and mental health problems is the collaborative approach.

Collaborative care focuses on improving the overall quality of care patients receive by ensuring that healthcare professionals work together to meet their physical and mental health needs. This treatment approach involves employing a team of experts to consider all the aspects of a patient’s wellbeing.

The treatment is multi-faceted and includes medical interventions, cognitive behavioural therapy, group counseling, etc. Collaborative care is particularly important when dealing with dual diagnoses. For example, where a person is experiencing mental health problems and has a substance use addiction.

So, if you are dealing with both disorders, yourself, together with a team of doctors and therapists using collaborative approach will endeavor to find the best possible treatment for you. This way, you get the help you need to live your best life. Ensure the healthcare provider you choose is compassionate with a stable and supportive environment.

Conclusion

Remember, regardless of how unwell you may feel now, recovery is probable and there are treatments that help you get better. But you are not alone. You can choose to surround yourself with a positive support system and engage in collaborative care. With commitment, discipline, and dedication you will succeed.

Want to know more about mental health, wellbeing, and resilience? Visit our extensive resource page to learn more.

Creativity Fostering Transformation

08/02/2022

That erroneous quote, “Houston, we have a problem,” sums up 2021. Between a rampant global virus, climate change, economic distress, racial inequity, and social isolation, we have pressing problems to solve. Given this, we would do well to turn to our innate super power— creativity, as a mean for addressing our most salient concerns of the day.

Creativity can be defined as the ability to transcend traditional ideas, rules, patterns, and relationships. It entails the emergence of meaningful new methods and interpretations and uses imagination and originality as tools for transformation. By tapping into these to forge new paths, we improve mental health and the well-being of our society. As Einstein said, “Logic will take you from A to B, imagination will take you anywhere.”

Creativity is not the Frosting; it’s the Cake

Creativity is often viewed as the icing on the cake—meaning creativity isn’t essential or the highest priority in our personal or work lives. In fact, some people view it as a luxury or leisure activity reserved for the elite. Yet creativity isn’t something doled out to the chosen few. It’s a trait we all have and is a primary agent of growth and change. It allows us to:

Renew ourselves
Recharge our minds
Reclaim hope
Restore connections
Resolve problems

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Given this, it’s unfortunate that creativity isn’t always valued as a high priority. In fact, most of us are familiar with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. It’s a theory in psychology that states humans have basic needs that are ranked in order of importance and priority. Our need for food, clothing, shelter, and safety is paramount, followed by the need for love and belonging. Creativity is ranked last. Obviously, if we’re starving and don’t have shelter, we might not be thinking about painting the Sistine Chapel or self-actualization. However, what if creativity, which is at the top of Maslow’s pyramid was viewed as the primary vehicle for meeting all of our needs?If this was the case and we tapped into this approach, we might:

Prioritize creativity within schools and organizations
Address economic problems and inequity to create a more just world
Foster empathy through arts programs in communities and businesses
Think outside the box and envision change and possibilities

With creativity, we see possibilities even when our current reality indicates otherwise. We need this vision or we will remain stuck in our circumstances. And while it can be hard to dream, if life hasn’t given us much reason to, creativity helps build the imagination muscle. It revises our viewpoints allowing us to “see again”. When this occurs, we have increased personal agency and these areas of our lives become enhanced: our vision and goals, systems, jobs, relationships, stories, issues and problems.

Misconceptions about Creativity

It’s interesting how we categorize creativity and tend to think only certain people or industries are creative. “I’m not creative,” someone might say, or “I’m not an artist.” In fact, we often deify people in the entertainment industry for their talents yet neglect to recognize creativity in the people around us.

Here are just some groups that also tend to be highly creative:

Children
Artists (painters, writers, dancers, actors & musicians)
Scientists
Leaders
Entrepreneurs

Parents
Teachers
Builders
Cooks
Gardeners

Another misconception is that there is a causal link between creativity and mental illness. While many individuals living with mental illness might be highly creative, there are equally as many who would not be described that way at all – by themselves or others.Instead, I would argue that creativity is healing and restorative whether we have a diagnosis or not. Creativity helps us transform our challenges into works of beauty and endows life with purpose. Not to mention the enormous contribution it makes to society and humanity.

Creativity in the Workplace and Education

Without a doubt, work and school environments have changed radically in the last year. We’ve all had to “pivot” and adapt to a new normal. Creativity increases flexibility and spontaneity as we learn new ways of doing things. In the work place it can help us navigate interpersonal conflict, balance budgets, innovate, market, produce, and make a profit.

That said, work and school environments often operate counter-intuitively. Instead of embracing approaches that enhance learning and productivity, sometimes these methods are stifled. We look to companies like Apple or Tesla and praise them for their innovation, yet creative strategies are often not supported in the work environment. And students at school who color outside the lines are sometimes frowned upon. Instead of being viewed as mavericks who can reach new heights, companies and schools often prefer folks keep to the status quo.

If creativity is to flourish in our communities, work and school environments must allow a degree of play, risk, connection, exploration, trial and error, and rest and reflection. These are the ingredients that foster new configurations and possibilities.

Jumping into the Void

Creating takes courage. It’s often a leap of faith and into the unknown. It can make us feel vulnerable as we wonder if we will succeed or fail. Do we dare dream? And can we step into something new and unfamiliar?

To begin revitalizing your creativity, why not take an on-line class, work with a mentor, or sit down with few distractions and focus on a task you’d like to work on. Feel free to take a little time out to explore and play. You will most likely begin to feel renewed.

Not only that, when we look at our lives from a creative vantage point, we start to see ourselves as characters within our own narrative. We can shape the story, honoring core scenes and events that have occurred while creating new ones too. This is really key because during the pandemic, most of us have been stuck in an unhappy narrative and we might feel a little short changed on hope. Yet creativity allows us to foster optimism and to rebuild. We can turn to the poetry of Emily Dickinson who wrote, “I dwell in possibility, a fairer house than prose…” And from this sense of possibility, we can soar to new heights and see things from a radically different view.

Lise Porter is a licensed marriage and family therapist, consultant, and trainer for the Workplace Mental Health Institute. She is based in Los Angeles and is also a working actor. Her book, Own Your Life: How Our Wounds Become Our Gifts is available on Amazon or through her website, liseporter.com.

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How to Stop Being Fake and Start Living Your Authentic Self

31/01/2022

Authentic. It’s a word we use to describe when something is real or genuine and not a copy or something false. You can say that a Rolex watch or a painting by Picasso is authentic. But what about a person…?

By this definition, humans too, are naturally authentic. Your mere existence makes you so. Just look at a newborn baby – they are completely themselves. They want to cry, they cry, they want to sleep, they sleep, they want to relieve themselves, they just go for it. There´s no guilt, no shame, no over analysis.

But we can´t keep doing that forever! You wouldn´t get very far in the world. As we are socialized, we learn to modify our behavior, to adapt to different circumstances, in order to survive, and to get the best outcomes.

But often, through the process of interacting with the world around us, we can take this too far, and start to behave in a way that is not necessarily true to ourselves and to our own nature.

And so, people can also lose that authenticity, and become fake, or false, doing things that are in conflict with, or even the opposite to their core personality and beliefs.

People put on a fake persona for many different reasons. Many people struggle with showing their authentic selves due to fear, anxiety, and other uncomfortable emotions. They feel that if people knew who they really were, they wouldn’t be as well-liked, lose their respect or even lose their love.

However, being authentic is actually one of the crucial aspects needed for healthy relationships that are impactful and meaningful. How can anyone love you for who you are, if you are not being yourself to begin with? And second, wearing a mask, or putting on a persona day in and day out can be tiring. It´s a heavy costume to wear, and we can end up exhausted and burned out. It is so much lighter and easier to let go of that person and just Be You.

Which leads to the question; how can you start living your authentic self? Below we’ll answer that question and take a closer look at the common mistakes and misperceptions people have when it comes to being authentic.

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What Does it Mean to be Your Authentic Self?

Being authentic isn’t difficult but does take practice (as with everything in life). To be authentic, you must have a keen awareness of who you indeed are, including what you care about, believe in, and stand for.

An authentic person, for example, says and does things that are in absolute alignment with their core beliefs and identity. They don’t change their views, actions, or opinions to please other people, and they answer questions with honesty and consistency. For example, authentic people:

Make decisions that align with their core beliefs and values.
Pursue their passions no matter what others might say.
Set boundaries and, in all circumstances, enforce those boundaries by walking away from toxic or harmful relationships.
Let themselves be vulnerable and open-hearted under the right situations and with the people they love and care about.
Listen to their conscience, the “inner voice” that guides us and, amazingly, is always right.

The examples above should give you a good idea of what it means to be authentic and live an authentic life. To make it even more profound, though, being authentic will show you where you’re going and give your life clarity.

As an authentic person, you know what your core values are, and you make every decision in your life based on those values. In turn, this allows you to build the life you dream about, give you more joy and happiness, and inspires those around you to be more authentic.

Common Mistake People Make About Authenticity

As with all things in life, becoming your authentic self takes time, effort, and practice. The fact is, we all change and grow as we get older, and our core beliefs and values change also.

As with everything in life, there will be obstacles and bumps along the way. To be authentic means to evaluate those obstacles, get over those bumps, and be the person you are inside on the outside. Some of the mistakes people make on the road to becoming theory authentic selves include:

Equating Being Authentic With Being Rude, Aggressive, or Mean

Being authentic means sticking to your core beliefs and values under all circumstances. For some, this is often mistaken, if you will, for being an A-hole. Many people think authenticity is speaking your mind and saying your opinion no matter what the situation.

In fact, the opposite is true. An authentic person doesn’t feel the need to force their opinions or beliefs on others. Yes, they will undoubtedly try, under some circumstances, to persuade people to see things “their way.”

However, authentic people know who they are and don’t waste time trying to change people who don’t want to, or aren’t ready, to be changed. Also, they use tact, compassion, and respect when talking to those whose opinions differ from their own.

Not Being Sure of Who You Are

Less a mistake than a situation, not knowing exactly who you are is one of the obstacles you need to overcome on the journey to being your authentic self. That’s why authenticity is so difficult for teens and younger adults as they simply don’t know who they are, at least not entirely.

Making the time to understand yourself, realize your core values and set your life on course to be authentic is necessary for all people. It takes listening to others, reading books, meditating, and being open to at least hear all opinions before making a judgment.

Trying To Remove the Risk of Failure, Embarrassment, or Pain

Many people make this mistake on the road to become their authentic selves,. They try to be someone whom they are not, to avoid pain, embarrassment, and failure. However, all of these emotions and feelings are natural and need to be confronted in a healthy way.

For example, you need to realize that failure, though not optimal, is a natural part of life.Embarrassment? The only valid reason to be embarrassed is if you try to be someone you’re not, and it blows up in your face. If you are behaving in an authentic way, and you accept yourself as you are, then there is never anything to be embarrassed about.

How To Start Being Your Authentic Self

Being authentic, as we mentioned earlier, takes time, effort, and introspection. Below are a few methods you can use to let your authentic self shine through:

Learn what your strengths are, whether with language, emotions, physical skills, etc.
Look at failure as a natural part of life rather than a roadblock or weakness. Everyone fails. The real winners are those who don’t let failure stop them from achieving their dreams.
Spend time every day doing things that help you realize who you are and what you stand for. Read books, listen to podcasts, learn from a mentor, practice being authentic, etc.
Actively practice spotting and dropping judgement – of yourself and others.
Don’t try to do it all at once. Start with smaller goals like becoming healthier, setting boundaries, and speaking from the heart.

Final Thoughts

Becoming your authentic self is a worthy goal; it’s true. It’s also a goal that will take some time to achieve, so don’t rush it. Instead, take little steps, be unafraid to fail, and never, ever let anyone try to tell you who you are.

Remember, becoming your authentic self isn’t something that one day happens and is set for the rest of your life. As you grow and mature, your authentic self will change and evolve also. If you allow that person to shine, your life and the lives of those around you will be much brighter.

Read the WorkLife Magazine – The Freedom to Express

3 Top Tips from Ancient Wisdom on how to exceed in 2021

14/10/2021

Imagine having a map of the upcoming year, something to guide you forwards, to show you which roads to take, and pointing out the pot holes to avoid.

Welcome to the ancient world of Chinese Metaphysics and Wisdom. The ancient 10,000-year Chinese calendar converts each moment of time into characters, these can have a Yin or a Yang(strategic or active) component and belong to one of 5 elements (metal, water, wood, fire, or earth). The combination is unique to each hour, day, month, and year creating patterns for each moment of time, from which wisdom and insights can be gained.

What was the pattern for the year just passed, 2020 you may ask? The image was one of a heavy metal object, sinking into the cold ocean.

A few signposts, predictions I had identified were ;

Companies will be axed and some large ones will sink
The economy will decline and pessimism and despair will be seen
There will be more unrest and uprising amongst the people.
People will start to hoard
Lungs and mental health issues will be prominent.

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Each year I guide companies, senior management teams, and leading individuals on how to maximize the year, what to look out for, and what strategies to adopt.

In addition to the chart of the year, each one of us has our own personal chart and once we analyze both charts in conjunction, (personal and the year chart), this gives clarity on how to maximize the year for personal and professional / benefits.

What’s in store for 2021? The Metal / Ox year.

2021 is the Year of the Yin Metal / Ox, and the year begins on the 3 February which is classed as the first day of spring (following the solar /farmers calendar).

The elements involved are strong water and metal, similar to 2020, which means a year of high emotion, many clashes, challenges and depression to begin with.

What is the Visual for 2021?

The year is visualized as beautiful jewels encased in ice or freshly dug out from the icycold ground. The frozen and cool jewels are mysterious and admired.

They appear cool and reserved, almost beyond reach.

The good news is there are “diamonds in the dirt” to be discovered in 2021.

However to benefit from 2021, a new mindset needs to be cultivated.

We need to dig in the correct field to find these diamonds.

Here are my 3 top tips to maximize your success in 2021.

1) It all starts with NEW thoughts!

Problems this year will be solved with new ways of thinking. The old thinking patterns will no longer work. There will be new discoveries, new solutions, new successes when the thinking patterns change; New ideas, New products, New ways of Business, New ways of living. A year to develop strong intuition and instinct. Creativity in 2021 will be high, however communication skills will be lacking. There is a feeling of preferring to hold back and not share with others.

2) Specialize

Specialize, do not generalize this year. Do not try to be good at everything. There is a need to focus on the Value you add to the world, providing solutions that are practical and that work. Many companies will want to shine, to stand out from the crowd and to be seen. Over confidence can lead to downfalls this year. Ensure the foundations are strong on which you are building the confidence.

3) Sensitivities

An emotional year and one where people do not take rejection well. Words can heal or harm, remember this in 2021. Bitter words are hurtful and once issued they cannot be taken back. Separate the issue from the person. Lead with kindness and sensitivity in 2021. Become more “human”. If Ego is high, then people become fearful, destructive and behind the scene events start to happen. The leader becomes more isolated, loses respect and is plotted against. Be hard on the issues and soft on the people

Covid will remain with us for the duration of 2021, and the vaccine will feature prominently.

Turbulent times are still ahead and so managing cash flow and considering different business models will be critical.

There will be a feeling of “every man/woman for herself” in 2021 and so team building, opening communication channels and encouraging sharing will be critical.

Sally Forrest is renowned for her expertise in Chinese Metaphysics and works with leading companies, families, entrepreneurs and professionals. She is also a certified Pharmacist, has an MBA and is the co-founder and CEO of SoulCentre – Asia’s Premier Personal Development Centre

Learn To Survive And Thrive Despite Narcissists, Sociopaths And Psychopaths

08/09/2021

Have you ever had an interaction with someone that wasn’t quite violent or blatantly rude but left you feeling ‘off, rattled or shaken? What was going on there?

Have you found yourself falling for liars, con artists, or manipulators on more than one occasion? We have too.

What about psychopaths? Ever wondered if someone you know is a psychopath? Sometimes it’s essential to know.

We are seeing situations where people face more extreme and antisocial behavior- and master manipulators end up using them and pulling their strings.

Having delivered mental health and resilience training across the world, to organizations of all sizes and in all industries, and to individuals from all walks of life, we know very clearly that one of the things people struggle with most, in maintaining their health and wellbeing, is dealing with difficult people.

Everyday interactions and relationships with friends, family and colleagues can be tricky enough, even when everyone involved has the best intentions at heart.

But more and more, we see more extreme antisocial behavior to the point where they could be dealing with psychopaths, sociopaths, and other master manipulators.

Suppose you are not prepared, not alert, or not equipped with techniques to deal with these people and situations. In that case, you could be at risk – sometimes physically, sometimes financially, but often psychologically too.

Therefore, for good mental health and so many other reasons, we need to build our awareness and understanding of people who may not have our best interests at heart. And develop a skill set to deal with these people, behaviors, and situations more effectively.

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We want to raise awareness and help people develop their psychological toolbox. We want good people to feel confident and in control when dealing with bad people out there – knowing that most people are good, well-intentioned people, but that, from time to time, they will come across dangerous people to their psychological and physical health. We also want them to know how to handle them.

We want to be aware and prepared to be able to:

identify different types of manipulators and understand their inner psychology
know how to spot other signs of manipulation and how to respond effectively to nip those in the bud
understand the dozen or so different strategies people can use in an attempt to shape your behavior, and how to neutralize them
look after your psychological safety and mental health effectively and securely when dealing with these people and their behaviors

So, what are some things you can do to protect yourself, your loved ones or your teams at work?

Well, here are four things you can do, in a nutshell (we go into more detail and more strategies in our Psychological Self Defense course):

Spot it early and leave, but if you can´t go, then…
Get clear and confident in your own beliefs and knowledge
Don´t try to play their game. Don´t try to outsmart them or trick them, or play pretend to catch them out. You´re not likely to win.
Communicate in a way that is very clear, firm and transparent.
Don’t try to control their actions, but stay cool, calm, and collected no matter what happens.

There’s a lot to talk about, and it’s imperative we do. But it’s hard to put this much detail here in writing. That’s why we created the Psychological Self Defense course where people can discover the strategies, tools and skills, to better deal with difficult people and to develop a type of “psychological armor” to protect themselves and their team from harm.

This online course shows you how to spot the different types of manipulators, the signs of manipulation, the ten sneaky strategies they use to pull the wool over your eyes, and the best ways to respond to this manipulation.

We consider this essential knowledge for everyone. Of course, suppose you’re a manager or supervisor. In that case, this is even more critical knowledge to protect the wellbeing of your team – and avoid the legal implications these types could create for your company.

Please, do yourself a favor and check out the Psychological Self Defense course

It could be the best thing you do this year.

Author: Peter Diaz

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Category Archives: Wellbeing

What Is Toxic Positivity?

Why It’s a Mental Health Awareness Issue

What Actually Helps

It’s Not About Being Negative

It Doesn’t Come Out of Nowhere

Money Isn’t Always the Dealbreaker

The Real Loss Isn’t in the Job Title

If You Want to Keep Them, Start Here

Make Work Somewhere They Want to Be

Loneliness Doesn’t Shout. It Slips In.

Some Workplaces Are Getting It Right

It Doesn’t Have To Be Big

Taking Social Media to Court

Looking at the Bigger Picture

Empowering Our Youth

Strategies for Parents: Building Mental Resilience and Healthy Online Habits

Understanding Behavioural Health

Examples of Behavioural Health Disorders

Substance Abuse/Addiction

Gambling

Sex Addiction

Eating Disorder

Understanding Mental Health

Personality Disorders

Psychotic Disorders

The Link Between Behavioural Health and Mental Health

The Importance of Getting Treatment

Conclusion

Creativity is not the Frosting; it’s the Cake

Misconceptions about Creativity

Creativity in the Workplace and Education

Jumping into the Void

What Does it Mean to be Your Authentic Self?

Common Mistake People Make About Authenticity

Equating Being Authentic With Being Rude, Aggressive, or Mean

Not Being Sure of Who You Are

Trying To Remove the Risk of Failure, Embarrassment, or Pain

How To Start Being Your Authentic Self

Final Thoughts

What’s in store for 2021? The Metal / Ox year.

What is the Visual for 2021?

Here are my 3 top tips to maximize your success in 2021.

1) It all starts with NEW thoughts!

2) Specialize

3) Sensitivities