The Spirit We Should Embrace

In a desperate attempt to avoid the traditional Halloween-related content for this month’s newsletter, I researched what else October is known for. It has been a fascinating learning journey; for example, did you know October has no fewer than four culinary observances alone? Thank goodness?pizza got its own month?- we may never have acknowledged its existence otherwise.?

Beyond food-based celebrations, October also works to shed light on some very important health issues - breast cancer, Rett Syndrome, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, spina bifida, and lupus, just to name a few. Beyond physical health, October has been designated as?National Bullying Prevention Month, focusing on the challenges kids face in dealing with bullies face to face and online. October also plays host to?Spirit Day, a fantastic offshoot of National Bullying Prevention Month focused on LGBTQ youth.?

With critical focus on improving DEI and reducing toxicity in the workplace, calling attention to bullying and mental health should be on all of our radars. Work can be a truly cruel environment, and employees are?no longer keeping quiet?about the challenges. Toxicity comes in many forms, whether it’s abuse, microaggressions, a horrible leader, or unrealistic expectations about timelines and productivity. And all of this has a real impact on retention, physical health, and emotional wellbeing.?

So while most of us focus on the fun side of scary - with haunted houses, jump scares, and clever costumes - there are many who are coping with things that are truly terrifying - loved ones dying of stress-related illnesses, critical health challenges, and the ongoing fatigue of seemingly endless uncertainty.?

The frustrating part about all of this is that it doesn’t take much to reduce workplace toxicity. For example, there’s the concept of “respectful inquiry” whereby leaders ask employees questions and listen - truly listen! - to their answers. Treating others with respect and dignity isn’t hard, and speaking up when coworkers are marginalized simply means finding your voice. And this is the spirit we should both exemplify and embrace.

With warm regards,

— Mark

Founder/Managing Principal/Toxicity Avenger, IA

This was originally published on our newsletter, Voice of HR. Register today and we'll make a donation in your name to one of four amazing charities!