City of London's Wellbeing Strategy: Managing Your Emotional Brain at Work

City of London's Wellbeing Strategy: Managing Your Emotional Brain at Work

In the heart of the City of London, a global hub for finance and business, the focus extends beyond economic success to the personal wellbeing of its workforce. As the Town Clerk and Chief Executive of the City of London Corporation, Ian Thomas CBE highlights the critical role of emotional balance in achieving organisational excellence. This approach is integral to the Destination City initiative, which aims to create an inclusive environment that justifies the daily commute for thousands of workers.

Balancing the Chimp and the Human for Workplace Success

Wellbeing, according to Thomas, involves harmonising our emotional and rational minds, a concept popularised by The Chimp Paradox. The emotional brain, or "the Chimp," often clashes with the rational "Human" brain, leading to stress and frustration. In a high-pressure setting like the City of London, managing this tension is essential for productivity and morale. When employees feel supported, they perform at their best, contributing to the City's global competitiveness.

The City of London Corporation underpins this with robust infrastructure, planning, and regulatory services. From the award-winning planning team driving growth in the Eastern Cluster to the City of London Police ensuring safety, these elements create a stable foundation for businesses to thrive.

Cultural and Recreational Resources for Stress Relief

Arts and culture play a pivotal role in enhancing wellbeing. Institutions such as the Barbican Centre, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, and numerous museums offer high-quality engagements that help individuals disconnect from daily pressures. Recognising and discussing organisational strain openly is encouraged, fostering a culture where mental health is prioritised without stigma.

Thomas shares his personal resilience strategies, including early morning gym sessions to start the day centred and focused. He emphasises the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries, such as dedicating time to family and rest, and seeking support from colleagues when needed.

Comprehensive Wellbeing Support Services in the Square Mile

The City offers a wide array of resources to support mental and physical health:

• The City Wellbeing Centre provides affordable therapeutic support for residents and workers.
• City Connections links individuals to health and wellbeing services across the Square Mile.
• The City Belonging Project fosters community through initiatives like the City Mental Health Network.
• The Proper Blokes Club offers free walk-and-talk sessions for men every Tuesday.
• The Dragon Café hosts events designed to break the stress cycle and build resilience.
• The Lady Mayor’s Appeal works to change attitudes around mental health in workplaces.
• Active groups like the Pana Run Club and City Bouldering promote physical fitness.
• Over 180 gardens and green spaces provide tranquil settings for relaxation.

These initiatives ensure that everyone in the City has access to tools for feeling grounded and connected. Wellbeing is portrayed as a continuous journey, with the Corporation committed to supporting workers every step of the way. Through Destination City, the aim is to enhance the Square Mile's appeal to investors, students, and visitors by showcasing its comprehensive offerings.