It’s hard to scroll through the news these days without feeling overwhelmed by division
Us versus them, left versus right, labels that seem to put people into boxes rather than bring them together. In a world that sometimes feels like it’s spiralling back to the politics of the 1930s, it’s worth asking: how can we rise above this?
For workplaces, the answer is clear: creating a culture of unity, empathy, and shared purpose is not just good for wellbeing, it’s essential for a thriving organisation.
Division, whether political, cultural, or social, doesn’t just exist ‘out there’
It seeps into workplaces, creating silos, eroding trust, and fuelling conflict. Left unchecked, these dynamics impact morale, productivity, and mental health. But when organisations prioritise unity and inclusivity, they create environments where people feel valued and connected—regardless of their differences.
I recently worked with a team that had been struggling with internal divisions.
Different departments blamed each other for missed deadlines, and tension was palpable. Through facilitated conversations and a shared wellbeing initiative, they began to see each other as collaborators, not competitors. By the end of the programme, trust was rebuilt, and engagement soared.
Research from the CIPD shows that organisations with inclusive cultures see 30% higher engagement and 22% lower turnover rates. Psychological safety—where individuals feel free to speak up and share without fear—is a cornerstone of wellbeing and high-performing teams.
Imagine your workplace as an orchestra. Each instrument has its own role, but when they play together in harmony, the result is something far greater than the sum of its parts.
How Can We Implement This?
Here are three ways to create unity and foster wellbeing in your workplace:
- Celebrate Shared Goals: Focus on what unites your teams—a shared mission, values, or purpose—rather than what divides them.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Create safe spaces for conversations, especially when tensions arise. Actively listen and model respectful communication.
- Lead With Empathy: Leaders set the tone. By demonstrating kindness, fairness, and a genuine interest in others, you inspire the same in your teams.
Let’s Talk
How is your organisation breaking down barriers and building bridges? Let’s work together to create workplaces where unity drives wellbeing and success.
#WellbeingWednesday #Wellbeing #Leadership #Inclusion #PsychologicalSafety #WorkplaceCulture #MentalHealth #EDI #Stress #BetterTogether #KindnessAtWork
