Mental Health and me

The World Health Organisation recognises World Mental Health Day on 10 October every year. This year it fell on a Sunday, which gave me time to reflect on how I am feeling, and what I need to do to keep my mental health where I want it to be.

I thought back to one of my earliest bosses and mentors who, when asked to give me his advice for success, said “that’s easy….if it’s not fun, get out!”.  That statement, in its simplicity, has been the basis of much of my most successful and happiest times.  It’s the one piece of advice that I remember that has influenced many life decisions for me.

Behind the simplicity, however, there is a lot of sense.  There is a common saying that “If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life”. 

I have been fortunate to have enjoyed a long and varied career where, most of the time, I loved what I did. When I look back at my most successful roles, it was clear that those were the ones that I really enjoyed.  Some people may comment that I loved them because I was successful, but it was the other way around.

But why?  If I enjoy what I am doing, I have energy and passion.  I am flooded with ideas and creativity and my positive energy inspires and supports others. 

On the flip side, if I am not enjoying what I do, or feel that it is not of value, I am at my worst.  I lack energy, focus, passion and creativity. I regress from ‘thriving’ to purely ‘surviving’.  This has a negative effect on my team, my stakeholders and, most importantly, ME. 

Like many, I have experienced the extreme lows. I have managed, with support, to get myself healthy and happy again. I have learned to look after myself, to know when I need a break and what I need to pick me up.

Today, I am extremely lucky that I love what I do. I get to learn from a wide and diverse group of like-minded people. I can share my knowledge and experience with others. I work closely with other business leaders and have the privilege of sharing their business and personal improvement journeys. 

Last Friday evening, I had a great time, topping up my energy by enjoying the company of a great group of people.  These six people were part of one of my peer networks groups. Most of them met each other for the first time in person on Friday. Before then, they had only worked together as a group, online over ZOOM for only 18 hours. In that time, they had shared best-practice, provided un-biased and pro-active advice, inspired each other, and been there for each other. We admitted that’s it’s lonely as a leader and found the support of others a lifeline during a period of pandemic, economic uncertainty and upheaval. We shared tears and we had lots of laughs. 

In the 6 months since they completed the Peer Networks programme, the group have continued to support and inspire each other.  They have helped each other as business owners, and as friends.   They had planned to meet up once conditions allowed, and Friday they made it happen. 

It was a privilege to share a great evening with them.  In times of gas, fuel, and other shortages, I can safely say that I filled up my energy tanks on Friday. 

It can be a lonely place as a business leader. Don’t be alone.  Reach out to others for support.  You will be glad you did!

Give me a shout.  I am here.

Mark

#worldmentalhealthday2021

#itsokaytotalk