Resourced Humans – Mini Soundbite Series
Purpose is everything. It keeps me grounded, keeps me going, and keeps me human in a system that can so easily make you forget that.
By Siobhan Sweeney
Senior Global Director for Talent Engagement, Elements
Introduction
Siobhan Sweeney has dedicated her career to building workplaces where people feel valued, seen, and empowered. With deep expertise in talent, inclusion, and culture, she sees purpose not just as a driver of individual fulfillment, but as the energy that shapes thriving organisations. Her perspective highlights the importance of progress over perfection, and the small, everyday acts of connection that make lasting change possible.
What does purpose mean to you?
“To me, purpose is that feeling that I’m contributing to something bigger that’s impacting those around me. It’s the feeling that I’m helping to create a culture that can thrive, that feels valued, and where people can grow and be at their best. So whether that’s helping an individual through coaching or mentoring, or through the connections that we make on a day-to-day basis.”
Siobhan frames purpose as contribution. It’s not about what she achieves alone, but about creating conditions for others to flourish.
When do you feel most connected to your work?
“I think that I feel most connected to my work when I see the difference that it makes to the workplace, to the teams, or to the individuals that I’m working with. Whether it’s the workplace that is just starting and commencing their journey, or a talent program coming to life, or somebody in the organisation finding their voice. It’s those moments of progress, whether they’re small or large, that remind me why I do the work that I do.”
Connection doesn’t always arrive in milestones, sometimes it’s the quiet proof that change is taking hold.
What does being resourced look or feel like for you?
“So being resourced for me, apart from having the tools that I need to do my job to the best of my ability on a day-to-day basis, is having the clarity to be able to come up with a strategy or execute on a strategy. It’s the capacity as well — being able to experiment and be innovative. And then also being resourced is having a community, to be able to tap into my network when I need to, to bounce ideas off, and experiment on different ideas that I have.”
Resources aren’t just tools. For Siobhan, it’s about having space, clarity, and the relationships that spark new thinking.
What helps you stay grounded, especially in challenging moments?
“So for me, when it comes to staying grounded, especially in challenging moments, it’s having my family around. They’re definitely the ones that keep me on my toes at all times and are very honest. Getting out for some head space, whether that’s just walking away and shutting down the laptop and getting some fresh air and clarity to be able to think. And then I would also say reaching out to my network of different people to get different perspectives, to be able to lean into different ideas that I may be having a challenge with and to get their thoughts and opinions on.”
Grounding isn’t just about pausing, it’s about reconnecting with honesty, clarity, and trusted perspectives.
What’s something you wish more people understood about what you do?
“I think the one thing that I wish that people understood more about what I do is that whether it’s talent that you’re working on or diversity, equity and inclusion or engagement within an organisation, they aren’t just initiatives. Or it’s not just a policy or one event. They are mindset growth and cultural changes that happen, and it’s seeing those behaviours, those choices, and those conversations happen over a period of time.”
Culture work is slow work. It’s not a box to be ticked, but a shift in how people think, act, and connect.
What kind of impact are you hoping to make in your job, even in small ways?
“The impact I’m hoping to make in my job, even in small ways, is making a difference to the people that I work with on a day-to-day basis. Life is so precious and we’re all so busy, and we often swim in our own lanes without putting our heads up to breathe. For me, it’s making sure that people feel seen, that they feel heard, and they feel empowered to show up and do the best work they can. Whether that’s helping teams or cultural change or a program that you’re working on, it’s making sure that you’re really present, and that you impact people, whether just in a small way or a larger way, so you’re making a difference.”
Impact doesn’t have to be loud. Sometimes it’s simply ensuring that someone feels recognised and supported in their everyday work.
What role do you feel you play in the teams around you?
“So in terms of the role that I play in the teams around me, I would say that it’s definitely being their partner, to be there for the business, to support the different teams I work with or the individual colleagues I work with on a day-to-day basis. It’s being that safe space when needed, or being the partner to a leader in the business when you’re working on a certain program. It’s being that sounding board where you can share different ideas and perspectives, and helping to bridge the gaps they might be facing.”
Partnership is more than support, it’s about creating safety and sparking new possibilities through shared thinking.
What’s one small thing that helps you feel like yourself?
“One small habit, ritual or reminder that helps me feel like myself is definitely my routine. I wake up most mornings and start at half five with the gym. I often find time to run, whether that’s half an hour at lunchtime or in the evenings. And I always try to end my day with an evening walk. By having that routine, it makes me feel grounded for the day ahead and sets intention. Otherwise, I know I’d sit at this desk and not move all day. So it’s really important for me to get my brain in gear, to be set up, and to be fully present. My routine and the habits I’ve created really help me do that.”
Consistency builds presence. For Siobhan, routine is more than exercise, it’s a practice of preparing to show up fully.
Has your sense of purpose changed over time?
“My sense of purpose has definitely changed over time. Early in my career it was very much tied to achievement, climbing the ladder, delivering continuously, proving myself. My ambition and output haven’t changed, but the way I go about it has. Now it’s about showing up with intention, building relationships and connection, and making sure the activities I do are sustainable.”
Purpose evolves from proving to sustaining, it’s no longer just about climbing higher, but about building something that lasts.
If you could share one message with this community, what would it be?
“My message to the Resourced Humans Collective is that you don’t have to have everything figured out all at once to be impactful. Keep showing up, stay curious, and be kind to others. That’s how real change happens.”
A powerful reminder that impact isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence, curiosity, and kindness.
Siobhan’s perspective reflects the essence of this series: progress, not perfection. She shows us that real impact comes from everyday actions, whether it’s creating cultural change over time, supporting someone to find their voice, or simply showing up with consistency. Her words remind us that thriving workplaces start with intention, and that small, human moments often carry the biggest weight.
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