Member Spotlight: Clare Mulligan-Foster, Business Psychologist, CMC Business Psychology

Each week we get to know one of our members slightly better. This week we find out more about Clare Mulligan-Foster, Business Psychologist, CMC Business Psychology.

1. Favourite quote or saying

‘What others think of you is none of your business’

Although this seems quite harsh at first, it is meant to be empowering. It’s about not worrying too much about what you think others may think about you and your decisions. Worrying about what you think other people think is a huge reason for stress in people’s lives and it takes away from being able to focus on who you really are and what you want to achieve to meet your passions.

When you have a small business, it can be quite daunting to think about putting content or your ideas and business goals out there. I have learnt that those who will support, will champion you and encourage you. Others who are more negative have their reasons and it’s best not to listen to much of that negativity.

2. Career highlight?

I went back to University in my 30’s after working in the financial services sector for a long time. When I qualified as a psychologist after 7 years of studying and working full time it felt such an achievement. I always knew I wanted to work for myself and as soon as I qualified, I quit corporate life and started my own business as a psychologist. I knew the hard work had paid off and allowed me to follow my career ambition.

3. Why do you love pro-manchester?

It’s great that pro-manchester connect so many businesses in Manchester. There is so much innovation and hard work going on in the city and the network gives such a great platform for sharing what is happening.

4. What are you reading at the moment?

‘The New Long Life: A Framework for Flourishing in a Changing World’ by Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott.

I am a huge fan of Lynda Gratton who is a Professor of Management Practice at London Business School and also runs an organsiation called ‘hotspots’ in which she collaborates with leaders of some of the biggest global companies on the future of work. Her commentary on the world of work is always so current.

She has been writing for a long time on demographic shifts and that people will be living and working longer and this book is her latest on this topic. This is my area of research for my current doctorate programme so I am so interested to see what her latest research is.

5. What are you watching at the moment?

Just finished 3 seasons of Ozark on Netflix. It was very good but quite dark and stressful so looking for something a bit lighter to watch next.

6. Favourite meeting place in Manchester?

Got to be Manchester Art Gallery on Mosley Street. Great spot for meetings when in town and then some space to do some work if needed. Also lovely café and shop. Always pick up some new stationary, book or something quirky in the shop.

7. Favourite lockdown activity?

Gardening! May sound boring but I have certainly developed some new gardening skills. Usually I am travelling a lot for work so it’s been nice to have some extra time to spend on the garden and learn some new skills. Because we are spending time at home, we have been able to appreciate the garden too.

8. Most creative meal that you cook?

After spending some time in Texas last year, we have been trying more Mexican food. Made some lovely tacos and tried some new recipes.

9. Most creative thing you’ve seen on a video call during the lockdown?

Love how the video calls have been so inclusive in terms of allowing kids and pets to join in.

We have also embraced Zoom for our family catch-ups and think we have got quite creative in our weekly quiz nights. Most creative was from my nephews who had pre-recorded scenes from movies that we had to guess. It was great fun, and so entertaining. I was so impressed with all their skills they used to make it happen.

10. Most mundane task you’ve completed since being in lockdown?

We are moving house (hopefully) soon so our mundane tasks have been clearing out all those junk drawers and storage areas of the house.

11. Do you write a blog that you’d like us to share?

Certainly – we share regular blogs on our website. We mostly write about Diversity and Inclusion, careers and wellbeing.

https://cmcbp.co.uk/news-blog/#.XxWtyChKiUk

12. What are you looking forward to doing again the most after lockdown?

So much! Shopping, travelling, visiting family, going out but mostly it will be to be able to hug my family and friends.