Have you ever heard any employee or colleague cry? Earlier in my career, I would never fathom this in a professional setting. More recently, I have teared up on my job, and I have witnessed others break down. So what is happening to us? Are we so scared to speak up that we internalize these stresses until we break down?
In the BVI, we contended with the 2017 hurricanes, and since March 2020, we have struggled with COVID-19. Could the impact of these traumas cause us to become more emotional and sensitive? Are our leaders becoming less caring and empathetic and so outcome-driven that we break under toxic work environments?
I am no expert and have no answer. However, I know that we are struggling. I often feel like I am stuck and frustrated. I feel unable to meet some objectives - not because I am incapable but because of a lack of proper systems and human and technological resources. I will not tear up for this. However, I get angry, especially when other areas achieve their goals and receive facilities. I vent when I see leaders wasting resources that we can use for greater efficiency.
I have come close to tears when I become empathetic. Working in human resources is not for the light-hearted. I often need to pull away and rejuvenate. As others unload, I process and try to help. I know I cannot take on everyone's burdens, but I often provide a shoulder and support. The worst experience I have had is hearing someone plead for a different opportunity due to an unpleasant working situation. I could not help. I often wonder what I would have done if I were in a similar circumstance.
Considerations are different for everyone, and although we see bright and beautiful faces in our workplaces, many persons are hurting. COVID-19 shifted our normalcy into remote learning and work, unemployment, short-term and long-term effects of illness, loss of loved ones, and disconnection to loved ones. We struggled in July and August 2021 when the territory lost 36 persons to COVID-19. Living in a small community brings these tragedies closer because we know many persons or their relatives. It was a difficult time.
Let us consider persons dealing with work and personal stresses simultaneously. While only a few talk about it, mental health remains a concern. I continue to remind you that we are our brother's keeper. Until we emulate brotherly love over perfection in a workspace, we continue to endorse toxic work environments.
I encourage persons to seek professional or pastoral assistance when they become so emotional. I often retreat to my garden with music to destress. We all need an outlet, and I encourage you to secure yours - and make it enjoyable!
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