6 wellbeing strategies for DE&I professionals

The wellbeing of employees has become an intrinsic part of workplace DE&I strategies. After all, if an employee does not feel a sense of belonging, psychological safety or respect, their wellbeing can be directly affected. Likewise, a feeling of fitting in and being included and valued in the workplace can greatly improve one’s satisfaction at work, motivation and self-esteem – contributing to an improved sense of wellbeing.

DE&I professionals work hard to incorporate wellbeing initiatives into their diversity, equity and inclusion methods. From flexible working – an initiative which was underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic, and which continues to be a DE&I trend in 2024 – to navigating more challenging topics, such as sexual harassment and racism, DE&I professionals remain cognisant of the importance of physical, mental, emotional and social health at work. And rightly so, as almost 25% of workers felt their work negatively affected their mental health, with over half of employees having done their jobs despite not feeling well.

But with DE&I professionals working so hard to support, uplift and advocate for others, who do they turn to when they need a helping hand? Harvard Business Review found that DE&I professionals are experiencing extensive burnout due to the emotionally taxing nature of their role. In addition, constant emotional regulation or suppression, and lack of understanding around their role, were cited as other reasons for burnout.

So, how can DE&I professionals protect themselves from the emotional labour set out above, ensuring they have the mental energy and emotional capacity needed to care for others? Essentially, how can DE&I experts ensure they “put their own oxygen mask on first”?

6 ways DE&I professionals can protect their wellbeing at work

As a DE&I professional, it’s important to protect your wellbeing in order to support and advocate for others, especially when managing challenging, uncomfortable or emotionally charged situations. We have suggested six strategies to help DE&I professionals to protect their wellbeing:

1. Set boundaries. Establish the parameters of your role and responsibilities, and communicate these to colleagues to ensure you are working within your remit. Remain conscious of protecting your personal time, starting by taking your full lunch break away from your desk if you don’t already. Become comfortable with saying no or extending deadlines when you don’t feel you have the capacity to undertake certain tasks or projects. Try to avoid checking emails outside of work hours, especially when you are at home. By acknowledging and communicating your personal limits, you are preventing burnout and creating the space and time needed to remain productive.
   
   
2. Self-care practices. Ensure to take regular breaks, blocking out your diary if necessary to communicate your availability to others. Self-care practices are encouraged in your colleagues, so extend yourself the same grace by engaging in activities that help you feel relaxed and recharged. Whether you prefer mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm, taking a brisk walk around the block between meetings or scheduling annual leave to ensure you have plans to look forward to, remember to carve out time to focus on yourself.
   
   
3. Promote a compassionate workplace culture. By promoting a workplace environment which champions wellbeing and work-life balance, DE&I professionals can leverage the associated benefits alongside their colleagues. Ensure managers and employees have access to the appropriate workplace training on mental health, and how to identify and manage burnout. Introduce quiet rooms to the workplace to provide an immediate calming space when things feel overwhelming.
   
   A survey by Mind found that 51% of employees don’t feel comfortable disclosing poor mental health. By encouraging open dialogue and leading with transparency, DE&I professionals can lead the way in creating – and therefore benefit from - a culture of openness and compassion.
   
   
4. Identify your personal triggers. As DE&I professionals, emotional intelligence (EQ) is an important aspect of the role, but how often are you looking introspectively? Practice self-awareness by making it a habit to check in with yourself and notice how you are feeling in certain situations, to identify your stress triggers.
   
   For example, the DE&I world is currently experiencing backlash, with the likes of Elon Musk and the Conservative party speaking against its causes. Criticism and misinformation around the DE&I agenda can put strain on DE&I professionals, questioning the validity of their roles and motives. Perhaps an antidote to this particular stressor is an education piece, encouraging workplace leaders into mandatory training on the business importance of DE&I.
   
   By establishing which situations use most of your energy, you can devise mitigation strategies, organise support or schedule breaks to coincide after those stressful moments.
   
   
5. Practice what you preach. You will be an expert in guiding your workplace into becoming an inclusive, psychologically safe and supportive environment, but are you simultaneously taking your own advice? Are you utilising the wellbeing support or services that are offered in your workplace, making the most of flexible working arrangements or using all your eligible annual leave days for personal time off? If not, it’s time to start practising what you preach and “walking your talk”.
   
   
6. Ask for help. Be the spearhead in addressing the stigma around seeking support, by doing exactly that when you need extra help. If you are feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, utilise your workplace’s support lines, ask for help with prioritising projects or delegate work to unload your to-do list.

Let us help you

For more information on wellbeing and coping strategies for DE&I professionals, explore our Wellbeing of DE&I professionals webinar, hosted by our Consultant Berman Zhigalko. Alternatively, explore our training on managing a diverse and inclusive workplace, which includes advice on creating a psychologically safe environment and enhancing employee motivation.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us to set up a complimentary one-to-one discussion and we’ll explore your bespoke needs.