By Brigitte Cutshall
brigittecutshall.com The workplace is always changing. According to a Gallup report, in 2016 only 33% of employees were engaged at work. They are more involved, enthusiastic, and committed to their work and the work environment. Then there are the employees that are indifferent and just don't care. This is a risk for any organization because of the constant change in the business world.
Increasing engagement at work is a good business strategy that will yield positive results. Engaged employees "get up, dress up, and show up" for work consistently. They're more likely to stay; they care about the service or products delivered to the customers; they care about the success of the organization, and they are more mindful of their surroundings.
We need to remember that employees are the most valuable assets to any organization. Providing them with supportive services that affect their well-being positively will improve job satisfaction. You also need their input as well to be successful in the long-run. How do you create a culture of engagement?
A simple way is to implement a WorkWell Initiative. Here are 7 strong benefits in favor of it:
- Improved Productivity.
Engaging in wellness activities such as exercising and eating healthier, increases productivity and overall performance. This helps your brain be more focused on tasks, you'll have more energy, and be motivated to accomplish something. No more feeling sleepy or burned out.
- Builds Community.
Being involved with group activities that include health and fitness connects you more with others, particularly your co-workers. Relationships will be formed that weren't available before because a wellness initiative encourages all members of the organization to be involved. Everyone will benefit from the shared experience.
- Happier.
According to an AFLAC 2013 Workforce report, employees that participated in a workplace wellness program were more satisfied at work than those that don't participate. The people who committed to the organization program(s) were generally more content overall with work related factors. Healthy living doesn't just make you look good but nourishes the way you feel too.
- Less Stress.
Learning stress management is one of the key factors in overall health and wellness. When we are stressed, we're more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors and that can affect our mental health in a negative way. Activities that encourage walking meetings, mindfulness, social engagement, etc., can help an employee relieve any built up stress. Just 30 minutes of low-intensity exercise will help you feel relaxed in no time.
- Healthier Habits.
It would be beneficial to indulge yourself in a work wellness program as a way to learn new healthy habits. By doing this, you'll learn to shift to a health conscious mindset that benefits your best self. Food choices and workout schedules will be affected positively because of the environment. When you surround yourself with like-minded people, that makes it simpler to ease away from bad habits that can hurt your health.
- Lower Healthcare Costs.
If your workplace promotes exercise and focusing on your health, your overall well-being will benefit. This is, in turn, will make you less likely to get sick and/or injured, saving money in the long run. Many studies confirm that a workplace wellness program reduces health care costs (meaning fewer doctor visits).
- Improved Physical Fitness.
Taking part in the different physical activities that are available to you can improve your physical fitness and overall well-being. Hitting the gym during lunch break or participating in a yoga class at least twice a week has many noticeable benefits. Whatever it is, open yourself up to the different physical activities available.
Hope this convinced you! Healthier employees tend to be happier and more productive. If you want to have a culture of engagement (more team fellowship, more productivity, and less absenteeism), a wellness initiative can help you get there.
Brigitte Cutshall is a Wellness Consultant, Speaker, and a Health Advocate (Certified Health Coach). She is a two-time breast cancer survivor and living with a primary brain tumor (benign). Brigitte strongly believes the values applied from her health coach training enabled her to overcome her own health issues. Brigitte's goal is to influence others to be a part of the solution - choose empowerment - and embrace a healthier lifestyle by focusing on the Real Things. Sign up for her newsletter at
www.brigittecutshall.com and follow her on Instagram @brigittecutshall. The author of "
RealThings: 6 Ways to Embrace Life" published April 2015.
BrigitteCutshall Facebook Amazon. Permission granted for use on DrLaura.com.
