There’s a moment most of us know too well. You’re trying to stay on top of work, life, and everything you juggle, but you’re running on empty. That’s when it can feel like you’re the only one struggling.

As author James Baldwin once wrote, “You think your pain and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world…” until you share it with someone. The truth is what feels most isolating is often what connects us. It’s why small moments of care matter, especially at work, where we spend so much of our lives.

For McKenna, an Event Concierge at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, that feeling is exactly why she stepped up and became a TakeCare Champion. “So many people think they’re the only ones struggling. When we talk openly about stress or burnout, it reminds others that they’re not alone and that asking for help is okay,” she says. “I really believe work should be a place that supports you as a whole person, not just professionally, but physically and mentally as well. That belief is what motivated me to get involved.”

TakeCare is our wellness program designed to support associates’ physical, mental, and financial health. Our TakeCare Champions, like McKenna, bring it to life locally across the globe. They’re the ones who pause, notice, and help turn silence into connection, often with something as simple as asking, “How are you doing” and meaning it. 

Being a TakeCare Champion is not about having the perfect words. It is about showing up. Checking in. Listening. Creating small moments that make it easier for someone to say, “I’m not okay,” or “I could use a little help.” To see what that looks like in real life, we spoke with McKenna at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman; Jiaxin from Human Resources at Sheraton Xi’an Chanba Hotel & Fairfield by Marriott Xi’an Chanba; Samrawit, Human Resources Manager at Marriott Executive Apartments Addis Ababa; and Gigja, a Human Resources Coordinator based in Edinburgh.

Keep reading to see the simple ways these TakeCare Champions help turn silence into connection, one conversation at a time. 

When someone is stressed or overwhelmed, what does support look like in real life?

Samrawit: I take pride in listening to people’s concerns with empathy and respect. I want to make sure they feel heard and understood. Creating a peaceful, positive, and enjoyable environment is important to me, but I’m also sure that people are their best when they feel safe, cared for, and valued.

McKenna: Some days it’s planning specific wellness activities, other days it is simply checking in with people. But something that stays consistent every day is leading by example. I do my best to stay consistent with my own habits and show that it is possible to balance wellness with a busy schedule. 

How do you create space for people to open up?

Samrawit: I introduced a session called “Coffee with HR”, where I invite different associates to join me for a relaxed and open conversation. During these sessions, they are free to share any concerns, whether personal or professional, in a safe and comfortable setting.

Jiaxin: I share health tips related to physical, mental, and financial wellbeing within the team. I also help promote hotel wellness activities like health lectures, healthy eating campaigns, stress management workshops, and relaxation sessions.

Gigja: My run club! It is a great way to get fresh air and get our hearts pumping. It allows us to connect as a team outside of work while supporting our physical wellbeing. We finish with hot chocolates and good conversations.

What’s one small thing that can shift a team’s mood fast?

Gigja: I always make sure to say hi to everyone and involve my associates when it comes to planning initiatives. I like to ask them how they are doing and send out “Wellbeing Wednesday” emails.

Jiaxin: Listening to associates’ needs and concerns, offering friendly support, and sharing useful resources to help everyone stay physically and mentally healthy.

How do you help people protect your team’s energy and avoid burnout?

Jiaxin: I encourage balanced work habits, and remind colleagues to take regular breaks and maintain a positive mindset. As a TakeCare Champion, I lead by example. I try to maintain a steady, patient attitude when communicating and solving problems, and make sure I respond clearly and without rushing or adding stress. I keep a calm mind and stay balanced amid busy schedules, avoiding unnecessary anxiety or overload.

Samrawit: I begin the day by connecting informally with the team, checking in on how they are feeling and identifying any immediate concerns that may need attention. By the end of the day, my goal is to ensure that everyone feels heard, appreciated, and motivated. Being a TakeCare Champion means leading with empathy and helping create a workplace where people can thrive every day. 

→ Marriott Is Hiring! Find a Career Where Purpose and Wellbeing Matter