Mental health at work: approaches from our leaders

“Time blocking has taught me the power of intentional breaks – moments to reflect, recharge and reconnect. Whether it’s making time for a round of tennis, talking to my wife or a close friend, or enjoying some quiet time while listening to my favourite One Republic tracks, these breaks refresh me physically and mentally.”

“Mental health is like a bouquet of flowers: it needs different colours and sizes, but not too variable. The flowers represent mental balance, which I maintain through interactions with family, friends and colleagues. However, the flowers without water will not last long. Water represents physical health. Without it, mental balance is not possible. My interests such as hiking and skiing help me to focus on things unrelated to work, which is important for my mental and physical health. “

“I prioritise spending quality time with my family, which helps me to switch off and maintain a healthy work-life balance. As a family we like to be active and spend a lot of time hiking, biking, or skiing. Being outside and enjoying nature whilst exercising provides a mental reset and improves my overall wellbeing.”

" I try to incorporate beneficial activities into my daily work routine. For example, I like to move my body and be outdoors, so whenever possible I go on a walk. Afterwards, I often feel refreshed and energised. Going outside is particularly important when I'm working from home and in back-to-back calls."

“Nature has a profound impact on my mental health. As a result, I make it a priority to spend time outdoors every day, even on busy days. Whether it's taking my son to kindergarten, going for short walks after lunch, or incorporating walking meetings into my schedule, these activities greatly contribute to improving my concentration, memory, and cognitive flexibility.”