Good managers lead by example. And extremely good managers aim to create a workplace culture that results in wins for everyone. That is, an environment that fosters the behaviour and knowledge that can bring in new business, add to the quality of work or, at the very least, result in happy, motivated employees.

In public relations, the best workplace culture is one that encourages team members to enjoy a variety of interests and social networks outside of their working life.

Well-rounded individuals usually have an accompanying wide network of friends and acquaintances. These networks can often convert into new business or referrals.

Even without direct new business generation, a worker who is actively encouraged to pursue his or her interests and spend time with family and friends is usually one who is pretty happy to turn up on time, work hard, have a thirst for new knowledge and skills and be a positive influence in the office.

To say, therefore, that the recent announcements from the Government about the cuts to adult community education funding are disappointing, is a bit of understatement.

If the nation is being led from the top, then to broadcast the message that outside interests and hobbies have no importance is short sighted. Of course there are plenty of non-subsidised classes still underway and possibly well attended but the risk is that access to night classes will become the preserve of those with more discretionary income.

Screeds of letters to the editor have been saying as much. One letter to the Dominion Post cited long-time successful potter Len Castle and ‘Dinosaur Lady’ Joan Wiffen as two examples of the outstanding success and passion that can be germinated through community night classes. There are thousands more examples, less well-known but no less important.

A person’s zeal for life in all its multi-coloured glory can provide inspiration in a work place and can help businesses grow and develop. This kind of passion should never be sidelined or be the subject of unwarranted sarcasm in the House.