354: Jason Hopcus - Lend a Hand Down and Pull People Up

Mental health is a topic people shy away from but is evidently more important to discuss in this day and age. In today’s episode, we have Jason Hopcus. Listen as he shares his story of how he transitioned from heavy highway construction and real estate to mental health support work. Through his work, Jason has developed a unique perspective on the importance of connection in the pursuit of healing. He believes that leaders and those being led need to access resources to overcome struggles. Jason also shares his thoughts on the current state of the workforce and how employees expect leaders to be more evolved in their connection to employees.Jason Hopcus is a motivator and catalyst for cultural change within organizations. He believes that connection to one’s self, one’s transparency, and one’s passion for connecting allow individuals to live a wholly authentic, full life. He creates systems of people working to deepen their relationships with their work, their play, and ultimately our world. He presently serves as non-profit President/CEO of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of Arapahoe/Douglas Counties and is the Founder of the Connection Project, a for-profit company.&nbsp;Tune in as Denis and Jason tackle the aspect of giving importance to mental health for the well-being of both leaders and employees in the organization.In this episode:Jason discusses his journey in rebuilding his own life and helping those struggling with mental health.Mental health is often a topic people are reluctant to talk about, but Jason believes it's important to have open conversations about all aspects of life.Many people are suffering longer than they have to because of the shame of reaching out and asking for help.Jason sees the successful leaders of today as those who are able to connect with people on a human level.The pandemic has given us a wake-up call and has shown us that life is fast-paced and constantly changing. Leaders today need to be able to navigate these waters effectively.Leaders need to be aware of how their employees are feeling and adjust their approach accordingly in order to create a sustainable connection with them.Employees also have a responsibility to be open and communicative with their leaders in order to create a positive working environment.Key Takeaways:Taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of othersThe pandemic changed many things, even in the aspect of mental healthKnow that you are not alone - never be ashamed to reach out for helpThere are people around you who can understand what you are going throughMake sure to get enough rest and to drink enough waterLeaders need to be more sensitive to create good connections with the teamEmployees need to be more open and communicative with their leadersTweetable Quote:“Me taking care of me is as important as me taking care of others.” - Jason HopcusConnect with Jason on LinkedIn and check out his websites https://realpeoplereallife.org/ and https://www.namiadco.org/.&nbsp;Email: [email protected]: http://www.leadingchangepartners.com/&nbsp;Leadership Is Changing Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadershipIsChanging/Leadership is Changing LinkedIn Page:<a...