Stop press! Gary Barlow and Robbie Williams are not only talking to each other – they have a new single out after 15 years of open hostility. Apparently they finally spent an evening talking about the past, the hurtful things they said to one another (and behind each others’ backs), and realised that deep down they still respected and liked each other. They both feel like a massive weight has dropped off their shoulders. Shame – what an apt title for their new single!

One of the things that drew me to my company was the “no fester” policy. At the time I thought it was a very optimistic and rather unrealistic policy for a company to espouse. However, I soon came to see that it can really help to make sure that we don’t sit on worries and concerns. It’s a simple case of reminding people publicly that festering is an energy drainer and that it can be overcome if you have the skills to handle giving feedback. Or that if you need some support from a coach or mate then ask for it – don’t let things fester, whatever you do.

It’s the part of our induction programme that many people really like – and gives them a chance to look back in their lives at work or at home when they pushed down feelings, grew resentful and had a big old fester. Perhaps in honour of the Gary and Robbie reunion we should start a national No Fester day, and see how many people could get talking and feel that weight drop off their shoulders.