Wellbeing is no longer an afterthought; it’s a cornerstone of effective leadership and a thriving workplace. James Parkes, ex-premiership rugby player and founder of the My Day App, champions the importance of creating systems that prioritise health, connection, and growth. By embedding wellbeing into organisational culture, businesses can unlock greater potential and inspire their people.
"Wellbeing isn't just about feeling good—it’s about creating the right systems and environments to thrive," says James Parkes.
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Parkes introduces The Five Ways to Wellbeing—mindfulness, movement, doing good, personal development, and human connection. These evidence-based principles can lay the foundation for healthier, happier teams and more engaged organisations.
1. Mindfulness: Being Present
In today’s world of constant distractions, mindfulness is about focusing fully on the moment. Whether it’s a breathing exercise, a tech-free conversation, or a quick moment of reflection, mindfulness helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Businesses can encourage this by fostering a culture of focus and intentionality.
2. Movement: Unlocking Physical Vitality
Movement is essential to both mental and physical health. From walking meetings to fitness challenges, finding ways to integrate movement into the day can make a difference. It doesn’t have to be intense—simple activities, like walking 7,000 steps daily, can significantly reduce the risk of chronic illness and boost overall wellbeing.
3. Doing Good: Building Purpose
Small acts of kindness or community contributions can profoundly boost morale. Whether it’s mentoring a colleague, volunteering in the local community, or simply saying “thank you,” businesses that encourage acts of goodwill create a culture of positivity and shared purpose.
"Find me someone who helps others and doesn’t feel good about it—it’s intrinsically linked to our biology," says Parkes.
Looking to implement impactful wellbeing strategies in your organisation? Join The CIO Circle and watch James Parkes share his expertise in a masterclass and discover actionable insights that can make a difference.
4. Personal Development: Continuous Growth
People thrive when given opportunities to grow. Whether through reading, attending workshops, or engaging with peer networks, personal development builds confidence and motivation. Leaders who make time for their team’s growth—and their own—foster loyalty and drive within their organisations.
5. Human Connection: The Foundation of Wellbeing
Meaningful connections are essential for mental health and collaboration. Parkes highlights that hybrid work models, combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility, can achieve the best of both worlds. Gratitude and recognition within teams also strengthen bonds and enhance team dynamics.
"Small acts of kindness and genuine connections can transform a workplace," says Parkes.
Driving Leadership Through Wellbeing
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Leaders set the tone for workplace culture, and wellbeing is a vital part of this. As Parkes notes, the most effective organisations create systems that make health and connection a priority. By aligning purpose, people, and performance, businesses can thrive while creating a lasting positive impact.
Want to explore how to build healthier, more engaged teams? Explore practical ways to elevate your team’s wellbeing - Join The CIO Circle and watch the full masterclass with James Parkes for actionable insights and strategies.
This blog draws insights from the inspiring conversation with James Parkes, founder of the My Day App, as part of The CIO Circle masterclass series.
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