Harnessing the power of glimmers at work
I recently returned from an industry conference on Hilton Head Island.
My spirits are high as I savor the afterglow of listening to inspiring presenters, connecting with association peers, being away from my desk, and enjoying a beautiful place for a short while. Not long ago, I learned that these pleasant experiences that improve my mood and put a spring back in my step could be defined as “glimmers.”
The term was first coined by Deb Dana, a licensed clinical social worker, in her 2018 book, “The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy,” and became better known through TikTok and other social media platforms. Glimmers are defined as small moments that can make us feel joy, peace, gratitude or pleasure.
Glimmers are the opposite of triggers, which cause people to feel unsafe, fearful, or angry. Most anti-harassment training programs include education on triggers and how they can contribute to a hostile work environment. The subject of triggers also is prevalent in discussions related to healthy workplace cultures, emotional safety, and employee well-being.
A work environment that harnesses the power of glimmers while minimizing undesired triggers will reap countless benefits including happier, more productive employees, lower absenteeism, improved employee engagement, and reduced turnover. These micro moments can be delivered in a wide variety of ways and fortunately, most glimmers are free.
There are many examples of glimmers I’ve seen positively impact the workplace.
Leave a personal note for a colleague who is going through a tough time. Compliment a co-worker on a new hair style. Schedule a walking meeting instead of sitting in a conference room on a sunny day. Have people wear their favorite team jerseys to the office. Express heartfelt gratitude to someone who helped on a project. Bring some home-baked treats to a meeting.
For those working remotely, glimmers also can be effective when gifted to ourselves.
Take a dance break with one of your favorite songs. Read a newspaper or magazine during your lunch break. Call a friend just to catch up. Sip your coffee or tea while reflecting on a treasured memory. Play or snuggle with your favorite pet.
It is amazing how even a few minutes away from your screen or current challenge can provide a mental boost. You return to the job with a fresh perspective, increased energy, and improved clarity. And don’t forget that glimmers work wonders whether you’re on the giving or receiving end. I make it a habit to compliment others most everywhere I go, and the results are incredibly rewarding.
I’m sure there are some readers thinking that glimmers are tailor-made for extroverts and optimists like me but come less naturally for introverts or those who tend to see the glass as half-empty. Maybe there’s some validity to that theory, but glimmers are real nonetheless, and can be amazingly effective both personally and in the work environment.
There are so many issues today causing stress, anxiety and burnout. Trying to relieve some of the pressure and worry through healthy habits and micro treats is a good place to start. Then, take glimmers to the next level by gifting them to others and you too will harness their true power.
• Mary Lynn Fayoumi is president and CEO of HR Source in Downers Grove.