As the New Year begins, we tend to see a widespread motivation for self-improvement, often focusing on short-lived individual resolutions. What if we could tap into this collective energy and work towards establishing a lasting culture of wellness in the workplace?
The process of establishing new habits in organizations is grounded in behavioral science principles. These principles help organizations create conditions that support the development of desired habits among their employees and help shape a healthier organizational culture.
Beyond Resolutions: Creating Sustainable Habits
While individual resolutions may fade quickly, organizations have an opportunity to promote lasting workplace habits that contribute to employee well-being year-round. These habits, when integrated into the organizational culture, form the foundation of sustained workplace wellness initiatives.
Below we have shared some strategies for creating workplace wellness initiatives that not only align with individual habits but also become an integral part of the organizational culture, promoting sustained well-being among employees:
- Recognize that individuals have unique needs and preferences and provide personalized wellness plans and resources.
- Integrate wellness activities into the daily work routine. This could include short mindfulness exercises, standing desks, or walking meetings (in person or virtual).
- Create designated spaces for relaxation or physical activity within the workplace.
- Offer amenities such as showers, lockers, and bike storage to support and motivate employees who choose non-motorized transportation for their commute.
- Encourage social connection and accountability by organizing virtual or in person group activities such as exercise classes, wellness workshops, or health challenges.
- Connect colleagues over wellness (in person or virtual) by creating a dedicated chat space where employees can share personal goals and challenges. It’s a great way to get employees excited about wellness and encourage each other on tough days.
- Introduce virtual wellness and nutrition coaching to empower employees to be at their best health so they can bring their best selves to work. Wellness coaching helps avoid burnout, stress, anxiety which contributes to a culture of wellness.
Seizing the Opportunity
As we all navigate the January motivation for self-improvement, there’s a collective opportunity to build a culture of wellness that lasts. By focusing on sustainable workplace habits, sharing experiences, providing essential resources, and encouraging supportive networks, we can actively contribute to a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling workplace culture throughout the entire year. In this culture of workplace wellness, each positive step forward becomes a collective step toward a more resilient and flourishing environment.
If you want to learn more about how we can help or have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
We are here to help you create a future-ready workplace wellness program.
Read more about How to Optimize Your Workplace Wellness Program for the Future
Author: Emma Carpenter
Manager of Operations and Workplace Wellness Strategist, BSC, Health Promotion
Emma has over 20 years of experience in the area of leadership and workplace health promotion and has worked with many private sector and public organizations in Canada and Europe helping them build a health promoting culture and design custom wellness solutions. Emma is passionate about designing workplace wellness solutions that help people reach their full potential by empowering them and giving them confidence and tools to make lasting lifestyle changes.
