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“Knowing what’s right doesn’t mean much unless you do what’s right” Theodore Roosevelt 

Usually I try to be relatively diplomatic when I speak or write. However, I make no apology for saying that I hate and despise bullies in any shape or form. There is no excuse for bullying and there is no excuse for us to turn a blind eye to it.

With the recent passing of Charlotte Dawson, it has once again shone a torch on the issue of mental health and bullying. Today, I want to talk about bullying.

Whether you come across bullying in your personal life or business environment, you need to ensure you are not condoning this inappropriate behaviour. Looking the other way is no longer an option.

Workplace policies only help if those being bullied feel they can step up and have a conversation with someone but more often than not, they can’t. When this happens we need to assist.

No matter who the person is, whether you know them or not, you need to step in and report it. If nothing is done, take it higher and keep taking it higher until it has been stopped.

Remember, those being bullied don’t want to rock the boat. They don’t want to draw any more attention to themselves than they are already receiving from the bully and they certainly don’t feel strong enough to put up a fight.

We say to them “it’s a reflection of the bully, not of you” but when you are being attacked and your confidence level is low, how can they even comprehend that statement.

I’ve come across bullying in many areas of my life  – I’ve seen it happen to members of my family and in different workplaces over the years and it makes me furious!

It’s up to us, every single one of us, to take responsibility and become accountable to ensure the right thing is done. I ask you to keep your eyes open and ensure those around you are treated with respect and dignity – always!

Until next time…