WE CRY TOGETHER; WE THRIVE TOGETHER.

Our Wellness Journey At The Red House

It’s been nearly three years since I joined the Marketing and Advertising industry. Much like getting a tattoo, once you get the first one, the second one is on its way, and the third one is in the design phase, it’s addictive.

Our industry is known for being cutthroat. As Anny Mouton, the Matriarch of Advertising in Namibia, once said, “You get advertising people and then you get other people.” I couldn’t agree more—our industry isn’t for the faint-hearted; it requires resilience and a certain level of “Je ne sais quoi”.

The demands of working at lightning speed and pulling off the impossible can take their toll. That’s why prioritising our team's well-being is crucial. We acknowledge that we are not robots, but human beings, and it's essential to care for each other as much as we care for our work.

The quote below speaks to the kind of support we offer each other at our company, reflecting the values that guide our management approach:

“I’d rather carry the weight of your tears on my shoulders than carry the weight of your casket, bro. You know, being a man doesn’t just mean shut up and work. It doesn’t mean you’ve got to be bulletproof, and it doesn’t mean you never get to speak. Being a man means you get to be a light for other people. It means you get to guide the way. But it doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. I’m here for you, bro.” – Harmony Health and Wellness (Instagram)

This powerful message doesn’t just resonate with men in general; it also captures our attitude as a company—a place where we lift each other up and provide strength and guidance, especially when times get tough.

Understanding the well-being of our team is crucial to the success of our business. Let's face it, without them, there is no business. Creating an environment where one feels free to express themselves within reasonable boundaries helps individuals grow, reach new heights, and further their own development. This, in turn, creates a dynamic and high-functioning team.

Earlier this year, our management decided to invest in the well-being of our team. Now, we hold weekly wellness sessions led by an external facilitator, focusing on various aspects of holistic health. We encourage each other, praise one another, and hold each other accountable to ensure we become better versions of ourselves. We share our wins of the week, no matter how small. By being vulnerable and allowing the team to see the core of who we are as individuals, we—together as a team—become a powerhouse to be reckoned with.

Looking back on where we started and where we are today, I can proudly say that as a team, our morale has been boosted throughout the year, even though the going got tough.

We’ve acquired new skills that help us care not only for ourselves but also for each other. This has helped us build a safe, productive work environment where we know our contributions are seen, valued, and appreciated.

Words: Dehan Vermeulen Finance Manager at Ogilvy Namibia