Wellness in the Workplace
Posted February 1, 2013 & filed under Job Search
For years, personal health and the workplace were thought to be totally separate. However, with chronic health conditions on the rise and Americans working more than ever, we are forced to examine the relationship between the two.
It’s no surprise that the average American’s workday has drastically changed over the past 50 years. People are working longer hours, and many have jobs that involve minimal to no physical activity. Since more than 75% of health care costs are spent on chronic health conditions (several being preventable), it has become essential to revaluate the American lifestyle (forbes.com).
Obviously poor health choices affect Americans as individuals but now, more than ever, employers are seeing their employee’s health affect them. Chronically ill employees not only increase health insurance coverage costs and medical expenses, but these employees also tend to miss more work, affecting productivity. The direct correlation between health and efficiency has resulted in many employers taking action.
Many companies have started to implement wellness programs that incorporate healthy habits into the company’s culture. The benefits of wellness programs are seen by both parties. Employers have more focused, healthy, and productive employees, while employees feel less stressed and tend to experience better morale. Want to promote wellness in your workplace?
1. Rethink your workday. Many American’s feel they are accomplishing more when they work 12+ hour days. On the contrary, many overworked employees experience a lack of motivation and are unable to remain completely focused. Prioritizing what is most important is the best way to stay calm, alert, and tackle the task at hand. Remember, there is always tomorrow.
2. Practice Stress Reduction. Take a break! Use this time to reenergize and refocus. Take a walk and remove yourself from your work, even if only for a few minutes everyday.
3. Offer incentives. Employees should be rewarded for making positive life changes such as quitting smoking, or losing weight. Offering encouragement and acknowledging healthy habits is a great way to support those taking steps to better their health.
No one reaches their full potential when they are overworked and under the weather. Increasing wellness in the workplace may be the best way to reduce health care costs, and increase productivity. Consider implementing a wellness program today! The outcomes of a healthier workplace can only be positive. Challenge yourself and those around you.
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