Empathy and Menopause in the Workplace

The Professional Empathy Podcast - Episode 33 https://www.empathyfirst.com.au/post/empathy-and-menopause-at-work-with-sonya-lovell

All episodes - https://www.empathyfirst.com.au/podcast

Today I'd like to share insights from our podcast episode "Empathy and Menopause in the Workplace." In this enriching conversation, I had the privilege of hosting Sonya Lovell , a resilient breast cancer survivor, speaker, podcaster, and personal trainer, as we explored the crucial nature of empathy and menopause.

The conversation underscores the importance of empathy, education, and support in the workplace, as well as the potential positive impact on women's lives, careers, and the broader community when menopause is openly discussed and addressed.

1. A Resilient Journey:

Sonya shared her journey of navigating an induced menopause at 47, shedding light on the lack of support, preparation, and education during this challenging phase.

2. Closing the Knowledge Gap:

Our discussion highlighted the global education gap surrounding terms like perimenopause, menopause, and menopause transition, emphasising the hurdles women face in seeking understanding and support, particularly in the workplace.

3. Empathy in Action through Conversation:

Sonya's podcast, "Dear Menopause," seeks to normalise the conversation around menopause by featuring stories and insights from women and industry leaders, empowering those navigating midlife and menopausal transitions.

4. Workplace Empathy as a Catalyst:

We underscored the pivotal role of empathy, education, and support within the workplace. Open discussions about menopause can cultivate a more empathetic environment, positively impacting women's lives, careers, and overall well-being.

5. Unveiling the Business Impact:

Recognising and supporting women during menopause can contribute to a more diverse, knowledgeable, and stable workforce, as women post-menopause often become revered leaders within their communities.

Below are actionable takeaways you can adopt to foster understanding, support, and empathy within your organisation.

- Educate Yourself and Others: Proactively seek information about menopause to bridge the knowledge gap. Share resources and encourage workplace discussions to foster understanding. Sonya has some great resources that can help.

- Create Supportive Policies: Advocate for workplace policies that support individuals experiencing menopause. This could include flexible work hours, wellness programs, or awareness campaigns.

- Promote Open Dialogue: Encourage open conversations about menopause in the workplace. This could involve hosting workshops, inviting speakers, or incorporating menopause awareness into diversity and inclusion initiatives.

- Empathetic Leadership: Leaders, be attuned to the needs of your team members. Offer support, create a safe space for discussions, and consider adjustments that accommodate individual experiences during menopause.

- Normalise Menopause Conversations: Break the silence around menopause in your personal and professional circles. Normalise discussions, share experiences, and contribute to creating a culture of empathy.

As we strive for workplaces that value and celebrate our unique and diverse journeys, let's take these actionable steps to foster understanding, empathy, and support for those navigating menopause.

https://www.empathyfirst.com.au/post/empathy-and-menopause-at-work-with-sonya-lovell

#Empathy #Menopause #WorkplaceWellness #Empowerment #Inclusion #Leadership

For empathy training options, please reach out to me or visit

www.empathyfirst.com.au