Feeling Included Isn’t Always Obvious
There are times when external circumstances—news about a family illness or a personal challenge—can make us feel distant or excluded. Even when nothing at work has changed, those internal battles can create walls that make us feel like we don’t belong. It’s not always easy to open up, especially in a professional setting. Sometimes we don’t want to talk about what’s going on, and that’s okay. But knowing that someone at work genuinely cares enough to ask, “How are you?” can make all the difference.
That simple question, even if we don’t always answer it truthfully, can create a bridge. It shows that someone sees us, that we matter, and it can mean the world when we're going through something tough. It’s not just about getting the work done, it’s about feeling like you’re part of a team that cares about you beyond your productivity.
Mental Wellbeing and Inclusion Are Linked
Mental health still carries a stigma in many places, but it’s a vital part of how we feel included. We all have moments when life outside work affects our wellbeing, whether it’s stress, anxiety, or personal issues. While some are more comfortable expressing their feelings than others, having a workplace where people feel safe enough to share, or at least know they are supported, is essential. When someone asks how you're doing, they’re not just asking about your job, they’re checking in on you as a person.
There was a time when I made a mistake at work, a significant one. Instead of facing judgment, I was met with understanding and support. My colleagues knew me well enough to understand how much that mistake weighed on me, and they asked how I was doing. That genuine care and concern made me feel included and allowed me to be honest about where I was mentally. It not only helped me recover from that moment, but it also strengthened our bond as a team. We became better colleagues and, more importantly, better friends.
In my experience, talking about or acknowledging your problems can be seen by some as a weakness. However, I believe it’s a strength, and by encouraging those around you to talk about what’s on their mind we can all foster a more inclusive environment.
Inclusion and Bias
We all have views and opinions, and that’s not inherently a bad thing. Having your own thoughts and perspectives makes you human, but what matters is how we act on them and recognising our biases. Respecting others’ opinions, even when they differ from our own, is crucial for creating an inclusive environment. It’s okay to disagree with someone, but it’s not okay to let that disagreement affect how we treat them or their place within the team.
In the workplace, everyone should be treated as equals. Whether someone has a disability, identifies as LGBTQ+, or comes from a different cultural background, their contribution is just as valuable. Inclusion isn’t simply about changing our thoughts or opinions, it’s about changing our behaviours. By listening to each other and embracing our differences, we create a stronger, more supportive work environment for everyone.
A Culture of Care
In the end, inclusion boils down to how we treat one another. It’s about asking how someone is, genuinely listening to their response, and offering support when needed. It’s about recognizing that everyone is fighting their own battles, visible or not, and ensuring that the workplace remains a safe space where everyone can thrive. This simple yet powerful shift in behaviour helps to build a community that cares for its people.
We all have the power to make someone feel included.
Sometimes it’s as easy as asking, “Hey, how are you?”
James Finch
Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer
