Video discussion on leading with self-compassion, purpose and collaboration to nurture mental health with Roberto Funari, CEO of Alpargatas South America

I was recently asked to take part in an online discussion about mental health in the workplace by the amazing Roberto Funari, CEO of Alpargatas South America.

Alpargatas is a global footwear manufacturer and parent company of the popular Havaianas brand. As CEO, Roberto is passionate about fostering a positive work environment and team culture. I was delighted to speak to colleagues for the closing webinar in the first phase of the organisations’s internal campaign ‘Equilibradamente’, Portuguese for ‘balanced mind’.

We discuss how important it is for people to feel seen, heard, and understood to nurture good mental health in all areas of life, but particularly in the modern workplace.

“Sometimes in very busy target driven environments we can lose sight of who we are being, how we care for ourselves and what caring for ourselves truly means.” Anni Townend

You can watch the video interview below or continue reading for a short summary of the discussion. Thanks to Roberto for inviting me to be part of this important conversation.

A journey of healing and development

Roberto opens up about how and why we met following his unfortunate experience of suffering from a series of panic attacks and being diagnosed with Anxiety Disorder. This launched what he refers to as his “healing journey”, one which began with some reluctant time off work and later led to us working together, and me working with his teams too.

Through our shared experiences, we discuss the importance of mental wellbeing and how connected and compassionate leaders can help teams to be at their confident best.

How to help others feel seen, heard and understood

I share how the following considerations can help people to feel seen, heard and understood, to improve mental wellbeing in the workplace:

The importance of being well met by others
How to practice love and care with yourself and others
Creating a safe environment where people can be themselves
Connecting to your core values and the difference you want to make
Staying curious and asking big questions
Using inclusive dialogue and embracing diversity of thought
Recognising when you need help, asking for it and giving help to others

Key takeaway

I encourage all those watching or reading to think about what you care about and what is the contribution you want to make?

This is something you can bring to everyday life, in a small way, whether you are in a leadership role or not. It is about how you live and lead your life.

This can be so valuable for every day mental health, because when you are connected to your current purpose and the difference you want to make, you can use this to re-centre at times when you may lose your footing as Roberto, myself and many others experience in their leadership journeys.

Contact me to collaborate

As an established Leader Partner and Executive Team Coach, I have a wealth of experience supporting senior leaders and their teams to create cultures of care and connection. Talk to me to discuss your leadership goals.

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