Happy mind, happy deliverables: Richard's approach to wellbeing and resilience

After more than 30 years living and working in Hong Kong, Richard has learned that some of life's most important lessons have very little to do with work.

Having spent decades contributing to major construction projects across the city, he still enjoys revisiting completed projects years later to see how they've stood the test of time. Sometimes it's about appreciating what worked. Sometimes it's about learning from what didn't. Either way, reflection has always been a big part of how he approaches both his career and his life. It's also shaped how he thinks about mental wellbeing.

The strongest people aren't always the ones who need help the least

One of the biggest shifts in Richard's perspective over the years has been his understanding of mental health. "Realising how delicate it can be in some people who appear so strong" is a lesson that has stayed with him.

That understanding played a significant role in his decision to become a Mental Health First Aider. For years, Richard has often been the person friends turn to when they need someone to talk to. The training helped him build on that instinct, giving him the tools and confidence to better support others when they need it.

More importantly, it reinforced a belief he already held: everyone needs help from time to time.

Why conversations matter

Ask Richard what makes the biggest difference to someone's wellbeing and his answer is simple: conversation. Not because every conversation solves a problem, but because challenges often become easier to manage when we stop facing them alone.

"Nobody knows everything. Chat about different perspectives. It always helps."

In Richard's view, mentally healthy workplaces are built on trust, empathy, and creating an environment where people feel comfortable speaking up. Sometimes the most valuable thing you can offer a colleague isn't a solution, it's simply the time and space to listen.

Finding balance in the everyday

When Richard talks about wellbeing, he doesn't talk about complicated routines or dramatic lifestyle changes.

Instead, he focuses on simple habits that help him maintain perspective. Whether it's rock climbing, photography, spending time with friends, or taking a slow walk with his daughter, these moments help him switch off and recharge. His advice is refreshingly practical:

"You don't have to be marathon fit. Just do a few steps a day, clean the lungs, stretch the legs, clear the mind, open your eyes, and take in the day."

It's a philosophy that's helped him throughout both his personal life and career. As Richard puts it, it's hard to worry about everyday stresses when you're hanging off a cliff one-handed. Behind the humor is an important lesson: sometimes the best way to regain perspective is to step away from the pressure and come back with a clearer mind.

Lessons from work and life

Some of Richard's biggest lessons about wellbeing haven't come from training courses or projects. They've come from the people around him.

From mentors who shaped his early career to the experience of raising a teenage daughter in today's digital world, he's learned the importance of being present, listening, and supporting the people who matter most.

Those experiences have reinforced a simple truth: wellbeing is rarely something we achieve alone. The conversations we have, the people we trust, and the support we offer each other all matter.

A simple philosophy

After three decades in Hong Kong, countless projects, and years of supporting colleagues, friends, and family, Richard's outlook on wellbeing remains surprisingly simple.

Take care of yourself. Stay connected to people. Don't be afraid to ask for help. And never underestimate the power of a conversation.

Because when people feel supported, balanced, and able to bring their best selves to work, everyone benefits.

As Richard puts it: "Happy mind, happy deliverables."

Interested in joining a workplace that values wellbeing, collaboration, and personal growth? Explore our current opportunities and discover how you can build a meaningful career at AtkinsRéalis.