Workplace Wellbeing

5 minutes with... resilience and diversity speaker and trainer Winston Clements

Oliver Matejka

Brand and Comms Lead

Unmind Product Spotlight: Calendar Reminders

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Winston Clements is on a mission to give people the gift of a positive mindset to unlock their potential. Following our recent collaboration, we took 5 minutes to discuss his journey and learn about the importance of harnessing a positive mindset and building resilience. 

"What is the next right thing I can do?"

What drew you to working with Unmind?

Before joining, I was already aware of the incredible work that Unmind were doing in promoting mental health best practices in the workplace. After connecting with Co-Founder Steve Peralta, it was clear that there was a lot of overlap in our missions to help people unleash their full potential. It was a no-brainer to partner with Unmind and I’ve loved being part of this wonderful team.

What does the statement "We all have mental health, all of the time" mean to you? What is your experience with your own mental health?

Conversations around mental health have come a long way in the last few years, with high profile people like Prince Harry sharing their own mental health challenges. This statement is a reminder that we shouldn’t stigmatise or confine mental health to anxiety or depression, because mental health encompasses any experience that can impact one’s wellbeing.

Growing up with a physical disability had a big impact on my mental health. From worries about fitting in at school to concerns about what my future would look like, it was something that constantly played on my mind. Developing tools and techniques to maintain mental resilience and perspective, has been key to my progress and these are the lessons I love to share with others.

What is one way that you take care of your own mental health every day? Why is this habit so important for you?

My morning routine plays a big part in this. It involves prayer, journaling, reading and some form of movement or stretching. I find this to be a great way to ground myself before tackling the day, and I definitely notice the drop off in my focus on the days when I skip my routine!

What book would you say has had the biggest positive impact on your life? Why?

I love any book that makes me think differently! Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink is a favourite because I love the idea of controlling your response to a situation, even when you might not have control of the situation itself.

If you could encapsulate the key piece of wisdom you've acquired over your life in regards to your own mental wellbeing, what would that be?

It’s a question I ask myself particularly when I feel overwhelmed: “What is the next right thing I can do?” The answer could be something trivial like send an email or drink a glass of water but it allows me to take that first step and build positive momentum.

Unmind members can hear more about Winston's story by listening to our Fireside conversation here. To learn more about his work, take a look at his website.

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