Brian Calley President and Chief Executive Officer at Small Business Association of Michigan | LinkedIn
Brian Calley President and Chief Executive Officer at Small Business Association of Michigan | LinkedIn
June marks National Employee Wellness Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the importance of employee health and well-being in fostering successful workplaces. As companies adjust to changing work settings—whether remote, hybrid, or in-person—emphasizing wellness proves not only advantageous but also essential for business.
Effective wellness programs extend beyond offering gym memberships or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). They encompass support for mental health, stress management, nutrition, financial stability, and work-life balance. Employees who feel supported in these areas tend to be more engaged and productive. Conversely, neglecting wellness can result in burnout, absenteeism, and increased healthcare expenses.
There are numerous ways organizations can promote wellness without incurring significant costs. Suggestions include:
- Walking Meetings: Encourage walking one-on-ones or team check-ins.
- Gratitude on the Agenda: Start meetings with appreciation or shout-outs.
- No-Meeting Days: Dedicate one day a week as meeting-free.
- Peer Support Groups: Form informal groups for experience sharing.
- Mindfulness Breaks: Share guided meditation or breathing exercises.
- Stretch Breaks: Schedule short stretch sessions during long meetings.
- Step Challenges: Use free apps for friendly competition.
- Deskercise Routines: Share desk-friendly exercises.
- Healthy Recipe Swaps: Create a shared document for healthy meals.
- Water Challenges: Set daily water intake goals.
- Lunch & Learn Sessions: Host talks on wellness tips or food hacks.
- Resource Sharing: Provide free financial literacy tools or templates.
- Peer-Led Workshops: Have employees lead sessions on financial expertise.
- Flexible Breaks: Allow breaks when needed rather than at set times.
- “Log Off” Culture: Discourage after-hours emails or messages.
- Time Blocking Tips: Offer productivity techniques.
National Employee Wellness Month serves as a reminder to evaluate and improve organizational wellness initiatives. Investing in employee well-being is not merely considerate; it is strategic. Healthier employees contribute to healthier businesses.
By Linda Olejniczak, courtesy of SBAM-approved partner ASE.
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