Imagine a workplace where motivation is high, stress is low, and everyone looks forward to coming to work each day. While this may seem idealistic, it’s achievable. Creating a culture of well-being is the foundation for building a high-performing organization. Learn more about what you need to create a healthy and thriving culture in your workplace.
Well-being in the Workplace Starts at the Top
A culture of well-being isn’t just a slogan; it’s a commitment that starts with leadership. Leaders must genuinely champion wellness, not just in words but through actions. In fact, leadership behaviors at all levels, from frontline supervisors to the C-suite, have an “outsized impact” on well-being.
Bob Alison, co-founder and CEO of PEAR Health Labs puts it this way: “Ensuring and promoting healthy snacks, making sure water is abundance and bringing sneakers into the office for impromptu walks, can make a big difference.”
Overcoming Obstacles
While creating a culture of well-being sounds great in theory, it can sometimes be tough to get leadership on board. A common roadblock is leaders’ short-term focus, which can prioritize quick financial gains over long-term investments in employee health. Other obstacles may include resistance to change, a lack of understanding of the connection between employee wellness and business success, and budget limitations.
However, there are ways to earn more leadership support, including sharing employee data and feedback, leveraging some quick wins, and identifying leadership allies open to supporting and promoting well-being.
Employee Involvement
In addition to leadership support, employees must be willing to participate. They are the heart and soul of a company and its culture. Without their active engagement, creating a wellness culture is impossible.
By actively participating in wellness programs and taking ownership of their well-being, employees help set the tone for the company. There are many ways to boost employee involvement in wellness, from integrating 15-minute exercise breaks into the workday to offering gym memberships and wellness perks.
Four Key Elements of a Culture of Well-Being
To build a robust and well-rounded culture of well-being, focus on these four key areas that holistically support employee health:
- Work-life Harmony: A major contributor to workplace stress is feeling overwhelmed. Encouraging your team to take time off, unplug after hours, and manage their workloads effectively can greatly affect their well-being. Things like remote work, flexible hours, and parental leave can make a big difference in a better work-life balance.
- Mental Health Matters: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 adults struggles with mental health. Providing access to resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counseling, and stress management programs can help improve employee’s mental health.
- Financial Fitness: Financial stress has a significant impact on employee well-being. Offering resources such as financial planning services, retirement planning assistance, and debt counseling can help alleviate financial worries and improve overall wellness.
- Physical Activity: Encouraging regular exercise is one of the most effective and affordable ways to improve employee well-being. Comprehensive wellness programs like Aaptiv, can encourage employees to embrace healthy habits and stay active.
Creating a culture of well-being in the workplace doesn’t happen overnight. By getting leadership support and focusing on the four key areas of well-being, organizations can create a positive environment that benefits employees and the company.
Aaptiv: Helping to Build a Culture of Well-being
Aaptiv’s all-in-one fitness solution offers over 10,000+ on-demand and AI-powered workout plans tailored to employees’ interests, fitness levels, and schedules. Aaptiv makes it easy for every employee to find a routine that fits their lifestyle. Additionally, Aaptiv provides access to one of the largest gym networks in the country, including 20,000 local and national brands and boutique studios— available exclusively as an employer/health plan benefit, with multiple membership options to fit any wellness budget.
Learn more about Aaptiv employee wellness and fitness benefits.
