What is workplace wellbeing?

Wellbeing Beyond Benefits: Cultivating a Fulfilling Work Environment

By Amy Thwaites

In today’s fast-paced and competitive work environment, fostering workplace wellbeing is not just a nice-to-have but a crucial element for both employees and employers. A culture of wellbeing can improve employee satisfaction, boost productivity, and increase turnover rates. In this blog, we will delve into the strategies that companies must embrace to support employee wellbeing, while also identifying potential obstacles that may hinder employees from fully embracing these initiatives and, crucially, how to overcome these barriers.

Over the last few years we have witnessed the emergence of initiatives like desk yoga, mental health first aiders, flexible hours, and remote work options as common features aimed at cultivating a happier and healthier workforce. However, to truly cultivate a culture of sustained wellbeing among employees, we must consider not only what is offered but also how it is experienced:

1. Encourage Work-Life Balance and Work-Life Integration: One of the primary contributors to workplace stress is an imbalance between work and personal life. Encourage employees to maintain a healthy balance by offering flexible working hours, remote work options, and clear guidelines for taking time off. When employees have the autonomy to harmonize their professional and personal commitments, their satisfaction rises, and stress levels reduce. But work-life balance is just a starting point; without work-life integration, the desired impact may remain elusive. Integration revolves around employees feeling able to set clear and realistic boundaries regarding working hours and/or workload for example, and actively unplug from work when they’re off the clock. This practice can prevent burnout, promote overall wellbeing, and create a sustainable balance across the workforce.

2. Create a Culture of Psychological Safety: A psychologically safe workplace is pivotal in enhancing employee wellbeing. Fostering open communication where individuals feel secure sharing ideas, taking calculated risks, and expressing themselves without the looming fear of judgment is key. Cultivate a sense of belonging rather than mere conformity, and champion inclusivity.

3. Prioritize Mental Health: Elevate mental health to the same pedestal as physical health. Provide access to mental health resources such as counselling services and employee assistance programs. Foster a stigma-free environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns without fear of judgment.

4. Offer Employee Development Opportunities and Nurture a Sense of Purpose: Investing in employees’ professional growth enhances their skills and magnifies job satisfaction. Facilitate growth through training programs, offer regular feedback, and provide career guidance. Employees who feel their career is advancing are more motivated and content. Similarly employees who feel connected to their work and believe in the mission of the organization are more likely to be engaged and satisfied. Communicate the company’s mission and values clearly and involve employees in projects that align with these principles. When employees see the purpose in their work, it can lead to increased job satisfaction.

5. Promote Physical Wellbeing: Physical health is intrinsically linked to productivity and happiness. Promote healthy habits by offering accessible and inclusive wellness programs, gym facilities, or wellness challenges. Encourage regular breaks and physical activity during the workday to alleviate stress and enhance overall health.

It is highly important that employees feel they can integrate this into their working day again through the promotion of healthy work-life integration. If there is the offering of a lunchtime yoga class, but a culture of employees expected to be available at all times… the two cannot co-exist effectively.

6. Solicit Feedback and Act on It: Champion a culture of openness and psychological safety to receive honest and insightful feedback from employees about their wellbeing and work experiences. Gather input through discussions, and most importantly, act on the feedback received to bring about tangible improvements in the workplace.

Improving workplace wellbeing is a shared responsibility between employees and employers. By implementing these strategies, organizations can create a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce. Prioritizing wellbeing not only benefits individual employees but also contributes to the overall success and sustainability of the organization. Remember, a positive workplace culture that values wellbeing is an investment that pays dividends in terms of employee satisfaction, retention, and performance.