My Whole Self Day 2022

CLM is delighted to be celebrating My Whole Self as part of the MHFA England’s campaign. We believe it is important that people are able to bring their whole self to work and it is up to all of us to ‘do the work’, empathise and support all our colleagues and to celebrate their intersectionality.

As well as a dress down day, the team shared some of their favourite food treats with each other including homemade cakes and brownies. CLM Directors, Laura and Hamish Wilson sourced a Wellbox for each member of the team. A wonderful wellbeing initiative that brought a smile to everyone’s face. The boxes included a Fragranced Tin Candle, some Relaxing Himalayan Bath Salts, a Coconut Hair Body Scrub Pad, a Calming Lavender and Geranium Pillow Spray, some Organic Lip Balm, a Mellowing Teapigs Tea Set, a Dark Belgian Chocolate bar, an Inspirational Affirmation Card and a personalised printed message from Laura and Hamish.

CLM promoted the campaign by sharing webinars from MHFA England. The first was an introduction to My Whole Self day and what the concept means to the selected panelists and the importance of British Values, Inclusion and Diversity.

The second webinar was chaired by their Head of People, Wellbeing and Equity, Ama Afrifa-Tchie. We shared tips to help you strengthen virtual relationships in the workplace, empower employees to bring their whole self to work and create a culture that helps people feel more engaged and work effectively together.

We also shared the My Whole Self MOT with our team. Regular wellbeing catch-ups with colleagues are a vital way to support people’s mental health, especially in the wake of the pandemic. The My Whole Self MOT is a simple, free guide to help check in on your own and others’ mental health and wellbeing.

In 2021, Laura and Hamish were inspired by Glenn Elliott’s ‘How to work with me’ guide and produced their own ‘Guide to the CLM Directors’. This was a perfect leadership example of Laura and Hamish bringing their Whole Self to work, allowing team members to appreciate and understand their ways of working.

The CLM team were inspired to write some words of appreciation for each other, here are some of the wonderful thoughts shared:

• I appreciate Mike’s constant helpful and kind attitude, even under stressful situations.

• Nicky is one of the kindest, most selfless people I have ever met who I am so lucky to be able to call one of my closest friends. She has been there for me through some of my toughest times and has provided unfaltering support, love, and guidance for which I will always be grateful.

• Lu always has a smile on his face, even when he’s under pressure. He makes sure to ask how you are, even if he hasn’t had his coffee! He is a great asset to the team, and we are very lucky to have found someone who has the passion for their job as Lu does.

• I am appreciative of this wonderful team who really stand up to help out when you need it!

• I appreciate Hamish for the way that he makes sure that our workplace is fully functional and equipped with the latest tech and equipment, he’s always happy to provide whatever the team needs to create a comfortable and up to date working environment. Also, when we are on an external team celebration day Hamish always looks after the team and makes us feel appreciated, thanking us for our efforts and looking after us (over and above).

• Laura is an amazing employer; she is patient and takes the time to ensure that everyone is ok. Laura is completely understanding of the impact of work life on family life and allows a level of flexibility when needed that works for both the company and the individual.

• I appreciate Victoria’s colourful kindness that she brings to each working day. My day is not complete until I have seen or spoken to Victoria, Victoria has been gifted with a lovely vibrant personality allowing us to appreciate the kind heart that she has been blessed with, allowing her to give the best personal and work advice and guidance on a daily basis. I appreciate you, Victoria.

• I appreciate Harvey’s sense of humour and his lovely nature.

• I am appreciative of Kat who answers all of my silly little questions throughout the day and for pushing me to be my best self at work.

• I love that when I walk out of my office, Gemma always greats me with a happy smile. Although being new to our team and our processes, Gemma has eased into her role without worry, she is a team player.  

• I appreciate all the PCs because they are always at the other end of the phone to answer my questions when Kat isn’t around.

• I admire Heather for going back to work after 5 years to have her children. It must be pretty nerve wracking to go from being with 2 kids 24/7 to being around 14 adults in a niche job where they all (apart from me) know what they’re doing.

• Ella is an absolute dream to work alongside, and nothing is too much trouble. She goes above and beyond and doesn’t hesitate to be by your side if you need her. She is not only a great colleague, but a great friend!

• Sahdia, your positive attitude and hard work are what make you great!

• Emma has the sweetest nature and is incredibly welcoming. She never fails to ask how people are and takes a genuine interest in peoples wellbeing.

• What I appreciate most about Chris is his patience when we are going through (and teaching me) new tasks.

• Di is always helping me concentrate on the positives of what I have done even when I am stressed on what I haven’t. I appreciate Di always asking how I am and offering me advise when needed.  

• Bec has an impact of walking into a room and making everyone smile & laugh instantly – I appreciate that because she always brightens any day – even on teams her witty banter makes me laugh.

Later on in the year, we shall be hosting another My Whole Self initiative where the CLM team can enjoy a delicious meal together whilst we discuss our ‘Desert Island Favourites’, a great way to learn more about your team mates and what makes up their Whole Self.