In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Sarah Adler about supporting mental health in the modern workplace. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Jonathan and Dr. Andrea Hollingsworth discussed their respective audiences and the importance of mental health in the workplace, with a focus on radical self-compassion. They also explored the challenges of the modern workplace, the impact of societal pressure, and the importance of self-awareness and accountability. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the importance of extending compassion to oneself and others, and the potential for further exploration of these topics.
Leadership, Self-Compassion, and Workplace Challenges
Jonathan and Andrea discussed the challenges of the modern workplace and the importance of self-compassion in leadership. Andrea emphasized the need for leaders to be aware of their own struggles and to cultivate a culture of empathy and understanding within their teams. They also discussed the impact of societal pressure and the importance of recognizing when "good enough" is indeed good enough. Andrea introduced the concept of "radical self-compassion" as a tool for leaders to manage their own stress and improve their ability to lead effectively.
Balancing Responsibilities and Presence
Andrea shared a personal experience about missing a significant moment in her son's soccer game due to being distracted by her computer. She reflected on the incident as a data point, highlighting the importance of being fully present in such moments. Jonathan acknowledged the difficulty of balancing responsibilities and being attentive to children's needs. Andrea concluded by emphasizing the need for self-awareness and accountability in such situations.
Self-Compassion, Connection, and Accountability
Andrea discussed the importance of self-compassion and the three C's: curiosity, connection, and commitment. She shared a personal story about a moment of imperfection as a mother and how she sought support from a friend, Cecilia. Andrea emphasized the need to connect with others and not hide from mistakes, as this can prevent personal and professional growth. She also highlighted the importance of accountability in self-compassion, suggesting that seeking support and structures can help prevent repeating mistakes. Jonathan, who has six children, related to Andrea's story and agreed on the importance of acknowledging mistakes and seeking accountability.
Extending Compassion and Vulnerability in Leadership
Jonathan and Andrea discussed the importance of extending compassion to oneself and others. They highlighted that most people are capable of recognizing their imperfections and extending grace to others, but struggle to do the same for themselves. They emphasized the need to give oneself a break and not let self-criticism disconnect one from opportunities for meaningful connection and growth. Andrea also shared a study suggesting that when leaders are vulnerable and share their growth areas with their team members, it leads to better relationships and a more positive work environment.
Listen to the webinar here:
