There’s often a blame culture in our offices. We’re loathe to be responsible for problems or situations. Personal accountability is more than a buzz term. It should be...
In Education we’re well aware of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Being loved by others and having a good self-esteem is key for our wellbeing. So when others demonstrate their...
You know I work at an HMP Establishment. Every day I meet people who show up in a state of frustration, despair, irritation, and detachment. And that’s not just the prisoners.
Sometimes...
I used to hate asking for help. I blame my Father. No, I’ll rephrase that. My Father taught me to be resilient. I was expected to be self reliant and to learn how to do things...
For a long time I thought I was just one of the team supporting our prisoners. I am an Exam Officer and I didn’t claim to have any clout in decisions that could affect those I worked...
I remember reading books on communication many years ago that talked of us having 2 ears but only 1 mouth – so we should use our ears twice as much! Easier said than done in the heat of the...
I watched England the other day winning their semi final in the 2020 Euros. That was strange enough as I usually don’t watch the football. But what I saw was inspiring. It...
Choices or decisions lead us in different directions.
We all know of stories, parables or fables where the hero meets a fork in the road and has to make a choice on which way to go.
The way they go...
A few summers back I gave a talk at The Exams Office Conference in London and Leeds on Communicating with Colleagues. Part of the presentation asked, “How do you say Good Morning to...
Gratitude. Have you given thanks recently? Or appreciated something or someone in your life? It’s an important gift to share with others.
Most of us grumble at some point. If...
When we feel disgruntled, ignored, unappreciated, misunderstood and disappointed, its human nature to share our upset. But in our work environment this can be toxic.
It’s all too easy...
Like many of us, I’m about to walk into my usual working environment this week. I’m going back to Prison.
I wouldn’t say I’m stressed about it, but I anticipate it will be...
