Kindness is intrinsically linked to better health, so on this occasion, The Kindness Change series is glad to interview Oliver Camp from Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition to share his personal views on Kindness and Wellness. What we consume deeply matters.

In your view – what is kindness essentially about?

“I think kindness is about generosity of spirit. It’s dedicating time and attention to offering support, care, affection, advice, warmth and respect to others – without expecting anything in return. It has to be underpinned by empathy, though. It’s not only about what you give. It’s also about listening and understanding”

How is kindness linked to a growth mindset?

“Kindness always leads to richer interactions with other people. Richer interactions lead to deeper engagement. Deeper engagement leads to better relationships. All of this together means you can learn so much and develop skills, knowledge & confidence to keep achieving more. Anyway, a rising tide lifts all boats – so there’s never any harm in being kind and looking out for others!”

What is the kindest thing you have personally experienced recently? 

“Well, I’m lucky enough to have started in an exciting new job during lockdown – and I’ve enjoyed fantastic kindness from both my former colleagues (not least the virtual leaving do and generous send-off!) and my new colleagues. I’ve really felt that people have gone out of their way to offer the warmest of welcomes, making sure that I feel like part of the team even while we’re all WFH”

Is it possible to apply kindness in your work life vs your private life?

“Absolutely! It’s one of the reasons why I have always wanted my career to be centred around impact innovation, sustainability & CSR. The main difference is scale. Kindness on a personal level can affect a few people around you – which is great, and not to be dismissed by any means. But kindness in a global organisation can affect millions or billions of people. It’s a wonderful thing to think about how our professional activities can improve lives and livelihoods in countries all across the world”

Is it possible to live a better life by eating better and why?

“I think we all know about the physical health benefits of eating well, but the mental health effects are also really close to my heart. Overeating so often makes people feel guilty and the cycle of self-punishment is no way to live. I tend to be prone to undereating rather than overeating, which can really affect your mood, energy, stress and emotional stability – not to mention the knock-on effects to your work, relationships and social life. I definitely notice that I’m only at my best when I’m giving my body what it needs, and in the right quantities!”