Improving Workplace Culture

?? I’ve Been Thinking…

… about how the change of seasons is a metaphor for the changes in our lives. The cycle of the cycles. It’s really quite beautiful if you let it be…

?? Stories to Help You Drive Change

Here are my shares for this week:

SPECIAL NOTE: If you hit a paywall on any of the stories I share, go to Google Search, enter the name of the publication and something about the story (author, title, subject) to get a natural search link that usually by-passes the pay wall. And hey, if you like the publication, consider subscribing to it—that’s how they keep the good info rolling! I’m hearing some paywalls are impenetrable, so for pubs like The Wall Street Journal and the NY Times, I’ll share a bit more here for those of you without subscriptions.

• Have you ever said something the wrong way and realized instantly you messed up? Were your next steps graceful or awkward? Want to do better next time? Here are a few tips .

• Inspiring: Summer Clayton . He offers to be a “dad” and lets people have conversations they can’t have with their real dad. His offer is taken up by kids and grown ups alike. It’s a beautiful idea. Kind of like the buddy bench . It makes me wonder if you could be doing something for colleagues that are in need of a nurturing spirit…

• This Instagram post about the effects of one negative employee on their colleagues ‘ productivity and work output caught my attention. I wanted to share it with you, so I did some additional research on resources and tips for dealing with negative individuals. Here’s what I found .

• There’s a theory that’s making the rounds that return to office (RTO) mandates are just lay-offs in disguise . I like how Joe Procopio dissects the topic, I hope it sparks some thoughts for you as well.?

• RTO mandates are also prompting companies to increase relocation offers for employees.?

• Finding your why, or your Ikigai, may be the best way to find joy in your work again. Listening to this podcast could be the jumpstart you’re looking for .

?? Hey, What’s This?!?

It’s a page from our compassionate workplace intention and reflection journal. There are 52 weeks of prompts like this. You plan ahead for being intentional about self awareness and your impact on others and at the end of each week, you reflect on what transpired. Powerful stuff, designed to help you bring your best self every day. Oh, and it’s free, so download here .

This week’s prompt is: Awareness of your impact on others is key for fostering compassionate workplaces. Jot notes for how you can raise awareness of this throughout the week.

Our interpretation: Experiment with being more attuned to how people in your workplace are responding (or reacting) to you. You can be more purposeful in watching for their reactions, e.g., their body language, micro expressions, long pauses, etc. Pay close attention to how people are expressing themselves or if they seem withdrawn. How can you foster open communications about what may be going on? We’re all here for a reason, how can you extend your value to those around you this week?

?? Do Good Spotlight: The International Rescue Committee

The International Rescue Committee’s goal is to help those affected by conflict and disasters with high-impact and cost-effective solutions. They focus on health, safety, economic well being, education, and empowerment. Learn more about who they are and what they do: The International Rescue Committee .

?? On a Personal Note

I’ve been watching a show that I hadn’t heard of until a friend recommended it—it’s called “What We Do in the Shadows.” It’s a comedy about a group of vampires, 3 traditional and 1 “energy vampire,” who live together with their caretaker, aka “familiar.” As with many shows, give it a chance beyond the pilot episode. I was hooked after episode 2. It’s laugh-out-loud funny, so if you need some of that, give it a shot.

?Until Next Time…

Happy Halloween! I hope it’s frighteningly fun! ?? ??????

Niki