Considering the times we have felt most productive at our jobs, they were probably when we were satisfied, engaged, and rested, both mentally and physically. Maintaining wellbeing in the workplace has always been important for both our own productivity and your company’s success. A supportive work environment not only enhances staff satisfaction but also improves performance, creativity, and overall mental and physical health. It’s important to realise that several strategies are needed to promote and maintain wellbeing at work leading to a healthy work-life balance.
1. Prioritise Work-Life Balance
A healthy work-life balance is essential for long-term wellbeing. We know that overworking leads to burnout, decreased productivity, and poor health and mental health. If you are an employer, you can support your staff and promote this balance by encouraging regular breaks, respecting boundaries outside work hours, and offering flexible working arrangements. Equally, staff should set clear boundaries between work and personal life, ensuring they have time for relaxation, hobbies, and family. Once this is implemented, you will see increased staff wellbeing, performance and a greater success in reaching your KPI’s.
2. Foster a Positive Work Environment
A positive work environment is key to maintaining mental and emotional wellbeing. Employers should create a culture of support, inclusivity, and open communication. For example, what works really well are regular team-building activities, workplace huddles to check in with each other and awards and recognition initiatives. These help employees feel valued and connected. For employees, maintaining good relationships with colleagues, practicing open communication, and addressing conflicts early are essential steps to fostering a positive workplace atmosphere. More importantly, these practices say that you care and are happy to invest in your staff.
3. Encourage Physical Health
Maintaining our physical health and workplace wellbeing are deeply connected. Your organisation can support physical health by offering comfortable ergonomic office furniture, standing desks, and wellness programs like yoga, mindfulness or fitness classes. Additionally, encouraging employees to take walks during breaks or offering healthy snacks in the office promotes a healthier lifestyle. Staff can also take personal steps, such as standing and stretching regularly, and making healthy food choices during work hours. Implementing these healthy adaptations and options help to promote the health of your staff and saves costs for your company in the long term.
4. Support Mental Health Initiatives
It’s great to see that mental health awareness in the workplace is growing, and for the right reasons. Stress, anxiety, and burnout are human experiences and common workplace issues. Employers can help by offering mental health resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counselling services, or mental health days. Creating an open dialogue and awareness about mental health reduces stigma and fosters a more supportive environment. Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or short meditation breaks, to manage stress throughout the day should be encouraged by employers to support their workforce.
5. Encourage Professional Growth
It’s beneficial that workplace wellbeing is connected to professional fulfilment. When employers encourage skill and development through workshops, training and mentorship programs, or provide opportunities for growth, employees feel motivated and valued. Although, work-life balance is different for each person, by presenting a programme of options, staff can choose what aligns with their values and aspirations and promote personal well-being.
In Conclusion
It’s important to realise that promoting wellbeing in the workplace requires a combination of supportive practices, healthy habits, and a culture of care, leading to healthier, happier, and more productive employees. After all, your staff are your biggest asset!
If you need wellbeing support for yourself or your employees, that results in a healthier workforce, increased productivity, whilst saving costs…take the first step on our website by visiting clicking on ‘book now’ or ‘book a discovery call’.
