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Personal Problems at Work? How To Tackle Hidden Productivity Killers

By Peter Francis

Managing personal issues in the workplace, How SME leaders can improve employee wellbeing, Workplace productivity and mental health, Havening Techniques® for business, Reducing workplace stress for SMEs, Boosting employee confidence in small businesses, Mental health strategies for SME leaders, Emotional resilience at work

Why Personal Issues Are a Business Issue

“Not my problem.”

It’s an easy response when employees bring personal challenges into the workplace. But here’s the truth: personal problems quickly become business problems, impacting productivity, morale, and profits.

The good news? SME leaders can do something about it. Understanding and addressing these issues isn’t about getting “soft”—it’s about unlocking hidden potential, improving performance, and boosting business success.

1. How Personal Challenges Impact Your Business

Employees’ personal struggles don’t stay at home—they show up in ways that cost time, money, and growth opportunities.

Here are real-world examples:

  1. Workplace conflicts slowing down team performance.
  2. Top talent held back by fear of public speaking.
  3. Leaders stuck in decision paralysis, unable to move projects forward.
  4. Reluctance to adopt automation, stalling operational improvements.
  5. Phobias and anxieties limiting job performance—like fear of travel or confined spaces.
  6. Frequent stress-related absences, reducing productivity.

Each of these issues costs money and time—and they’re all solvable.

2. From Engineering Problems to Human Solutions

As an engineer, I’m used to solving practical problems—fixing machines, streamlining processes, improving systems. But when the challenge is human behaviour, the solution isn’t so obvious.

That’s when I discovered Havening Techniques®.

This psycho-sensory therapy uses simple touch to reduce anxiety, build confidence, and break down emotional barriers. No drugs. No complicated processes. Just touch—often self-applied—and results that last.

Why it works for SMEs:

  • It’s fast, with permanent changes in how people respond to stress.
  • It’s grounded in scientific research, appealing to rational thinkers.
  • It addresses problems that directly affect business performance.

3. Why Employee Wellbeing Means Business Success

Investing in employee wellbeing isn’t a “soft” option—it’s a smart business strategy.

  1. Higher productivity: Employees who feel confident and supported get more done.
  2. Reduced downtime: Addressing stress and anxiety cuts down on sick days.
  3. Improved workplace relationships: A positive environment means better collaboration.
  4. Faster innovation: Confident teams are more open to new ideas and technologies.

Bottom line: Wellbeing drives performance.

4. Havening Techniques®: A Practical Tool for Business Leaders

Bringing therapy into the workplace might sound like crossing a line—but Havening Techniques® is different.

What it helps with:

  • Boosting confidence in public speaking
  • Overcoming fears that limit job performance
  • Building emotional resilience for high-pressure roles
  • Reducing anxiety linked to new responsibilities

How it works in business: Leaders can introduce Havening as part of professional development, giving employees the tools to overcome personal challenges and perform at their best.

5. Breaking Down the Stigma—One Success Story at a Time

Adopting emotional wellbeing strategies isn’t just about being a caring employer—it’s about future-proofing your business.

Leaders who understand the connection between personal wellbeing and professional performance position their companies for sustained growth.

If you’re ready to unlock your team’s full potential, it might be time to explore new solutions.

Conclusion: Solve the Real Problems Holding Your Business Back

Personal challenges at work aren’t always obvious—but they affect performance, profits, and progress. For SME leaders, ignoring these issues isn’t an option. Take action:

  1. Recognise that personal issues affect professional performance.
  2. Introduce practical solutions like Havening Techniques®.

  3. Support your team—because when your people thrive, your business does too.

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