Expand Your Hinterland

Recently I read a fantastic book by Kirsten Ferguson called ‘Head and Heart: The Art of Modern Leadership’. In it the author referenced the term hinterland, coined by the former PM, Denis Healey. Having not heard it used in a work context, I thought it worth exploring. It is your less developed landscape of fulfilling interests laying beyond.

Over the past two decades I have come across many colleagues who have struggled to separate their personal identity and their work. Their work life has bled into their home life. The increase in work from home has compounded this problem, as the boundary between the two has blurred.

The more consumed by work they have become, the more their hobbies and interests have fallen to the wayside. Without realising it, their work has taken over their life. This has led to strain, stress and suffering. It caused me to wonder, are people happier if they have more interests outside their work?

If you believe Barry Schwartz, happiness is about lowering our expectations and reducing our options so as not to be overwhelmed by indecision and regret. Some say there is no such thing as happiness, but rather ‘happierness’, which compares one emotional state relative to another.

For the sake of simplicity, happiness here is the feeling of joy you experience when you are doing what you love to do. These personal interests revive and enliven you. You are in a state of being well (wellbeing) and your physical and mental health benefit accordingly.

Your hinterland is the space beyond work that reinvigorates your senses and feeds your soul. It keeps you feeling that you are alive, and in alignment with your true self. It may be made up of sporting interests or volunteering opportunities or creative endeavours, giving you a feeling of fulfilment.

The richer and more diverse your hinterland is, the less you will mind when things don’t go your way at work. You are better able to let go of the little losses or disappointments that happen at work. It softens the workplace blows. Your hinterland adds colour to your world. It shifts your perspective.

There is a certain satisfaction in realising that you are replaceable at work. This knowledge gives you permission to focus on you and what serves your needs. Work need not be all-consuming. You are not your job. You are not your salary. You are not your job title. There is much more to you.

Expand your hinterland to discover a healthier and happier you!

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