5 Ways to Create a Healthier and Happier Workplace
As a business owner, it is in your best interest to support your employees’ health. As well as your desire to look after people and make sure they are happy, your team’s well-being also plays a direct role in your organisation’s productivity and long-term success. Studies show that when staff members feel physically and mentally well, they are more engaged, motivated, and resilient.
But how do you create a happier and healthier workplace? It doesn’t require a complete business overhaul, but merely a few small changes that can make a big impact on overall well-being. Here are five tips to get you started.
Encourage movement throughout the day
Many modern workplaces involve long hours sitting at desks and staring at screens. Over time, this poor posture, mobility issues, and neck and back pain. Encourage your team to move about regularly, whether that’s by holding standing meetings or gentle stretching breaks. If possible, invest in standing desks as an option, and try to cultivate a culture where people feel comfortable getting outside in their lunch hour rather than scoffing a sandwich at their desks.
Improve air quality in the office
Air quality in the workplace is often overlooked, yet it has a major impact on health, especially in enclosed office environments. Poor ventilation can contribute to all kinds of health problems such as headaches, allergies, and respiratory issues. Not to mention the increased sick days as a result.
Aim to opening windows where possible and place plenty of greenery round the office, as plants have been shown to improve air purity. Make sure to maintain your heating and air conditioning systems, as well as investing in professional duct cleaning to help remove any dust, allergens, and pollutants that might circulate through the workspace. Doing this will lead to cleaner air and a healthier environment for everyone.
Support mental well-being
Mental health is just as important as physical health. You want to create a workplace where employees feel safe discussing stress or anxiety. Ultimately, this will improve their trust in you and reduce absenteeism. This can be as simple as checking in regularly, offering flexible working where possible, or sharing access to mental health resources.
Promote healthy habits
As a business leader, you need to set an example when it comes to healthy habits. Providing free fresh fruit in the kitchen as well as encouraging proper lunch breaks can make a difference. Avoid enforcing rigid wellness rules, as this will deter people. Instead, provide options and make healthy choices easy and accessible.
Create a comfortable workspace
Physical comfort is hugely important. If staff have to deal with uncomfortable seating, poor lighting or cluttered spaces, this will affect their morale and productivity. Invest in good-quality ergonomic chairs to support good posture, and create an office layout that supports everyone’s workday. Good lighting helps to protect your employees’ eyes, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback about how you can improve comfort levels. This shows your staff that their health and well-being are valued.
