Resourced Humans – Mini Soundbite Series
Purpose is what makes me feel alive, and how I give the best of myself to others.
By Nebel Crowhurst
Chief People Officer at People & Transformational HR and Board Advisor
Introduction
In this conversation, she shares what purpose really means to her, the energy that comes from helping others thrive, the quiet power of making a difference behind the scenes, and the rituals that help her stay grounded through it all. Her reflections remind us that purpose is not a fixed destination, but a living thread that connects who we are with the impact we create every day.
What does purpose mean to you?
“ What purpose means to me, it's that sense of why I do what I do, what makes me feel fulfilled, what makes me feel alive and energized, and what brings me joy, and the difference I can make to people around me and the environments I work in, the businesses I'm part of, and knowing where I can bring my best version of myself to make a difference and help others. Whether that’s supporting someone directly or connecting to a bigger organisational purpose, it’s about resonance, that alignment between what I care about and what the business stands for. Purpose is what makes me feel alive, and how I feel most fulfilled so that I can give the best of myself to others.”
Her reflection on purpose is both expansive and personal, a reminder that when our individual purpose aligns with our organisation’s, the work becomes more than a job; it becomes a source of energy.
When do you feel most connected to your work?
“I feel most connected to the work that I do when I can see progress, when I feel like whatever I've done has contributed to greater success. You might be faced with a challenge or a blocker, and you’re working with people to overcome it. That’s when I feel motivated, when I can see that I’ve added real value to what others are trying to achieve.”
Connection, for her, is rooted in contribution, the satisfaction of helping others move forward and seeing tangible change unfold.
What does being resourced feel like to you?
“Being resourced, to me, is about my energy levels and where I draw my energy from to do my best work. We all have to find our own ways to recharge. For me, I feel most energised when I’m around other people, though I know when I need time out too. Sleep is a big one for me, I know that if I haven’t slept well, I can’t bring my best. Being around great people that I can bounce off, and who offer mutual support, makes me feel resourced.”
Her definition reframes resourcing as something deeply human, not a list of tools or budgets, but the conditions that keep us mentally, emotionally, and physically well.
What helps you stay grounded, especially in challenging moments?
“When things get challenging, I remind myself why I do what I do. In HR, we face challenges almost daily, supporting others, solving problems, working through the unknown. I love what I do, and that sense of purpose keeps me grounded. Knowing the difference we can make to people and organisations gives me focus, even on the hardest days.”
Her composure in difficulty comes from conviction, a quiet strength that comes when you truly love your work and understand its impact.
What’s something you wish more people understood about what you do?
“HR is an interesting world. I often say to my teams they’re the unsung heroes, because most people only see the tip of the iceberg. It’s the work happening behind the scenes, the quiet conversations, the prevention of bigger problems, the steadying influence in difficult times, that keeps businesses running smoothly. We don’t always get recognition for it, but that’s okay. I know the work we do makes a real difference.”
She captures the invisible backbone of the HR profession, the quiet, consistent effort that holds organisations together.
What kind of impact are you hoping to make in your job, even in small ways?
“The impact that means the most to me is twofold. Sometimes it’s a small moment, when someone comes to you feeling stuck, and a conversation helps them move forward. And other times, it’s the broader, strategic impact, seeing how all those small moments add up to an organisation’s success. Both matter equally, because both make a difference.”
Her view of impact shows how powerful the smallest gestures can be, how everyday empathy compounds into organisational change.
What’s one small thing that helps you feel like yourself?
“In HR, we spend so much time showing up for others that we have to be intentional about how we look after ourselves. For me, that means getting enough sleep, practicing yoga, or going to sound baths, they help me release the emotions I pick up from others and reset. It’s about letting go of what isn’t mine to carry.”
Her rituals are restorative rather than grand, acts of quiet renewal that allow her to keep showing up for others with empathy.
Has your sense of purpose changed over time?
“My sense of purpose has continued to grow. Even as a child, I wanted to support and help others, I just didn’t know it would lead me here. HR feels like my calling. It’s where I can make the greatest impact and wake up knowing I’m making a difference. That’s an incredible privilege.”
Her evolution reflects maturity and alignment, finding work that fits so naturally with who you are that it feels inevitable.
If you could share one message with this community, what would it be?
“My message to the Resourced Humans community would be: have true belief in what you stand for. Allow yourself to explore what your purpose means, be curious, and keep learning. Let your purpose grow with you, and enjoy it.”
Her message captures the essence of this whole series, purpose is not fixed; it evolves as we do. Staying curious, grounded, and authentic keeps it alive.
From her reflections, it’s clear that purpose for her is both deeply personal and powerfully collective. It’s found in the quiet influence of helping others grow, the unseen work that keeps teams moving, and the moments of grounding that keep her centred amid constant change. Her story is a reminder that being resourced isn’t about having everything, but about knowing where your energy comes from and using it to lift those around you. In her words and actions, she captures what the Resourced Humans community stands for,purpose, connection, and the courage to keep showing up for others with integrity and heart.
Feeling inspired?
Let's talk about how MYNDUP's HR Community can support you feeling more resourced, more often. Join the collective to hear more.