Part 3: Building a Wellness-Friendly Work Environment: Strategies for Leaders

By Robert Hilliard and Whitnie Wiley

Introduction

Creating a workplace where wellness is prioritized isn't just a nice-to-have—it's a must for fostering a productive and engaged workforce. As leaders, we have the unique opportunity to shape our work environments into spaces that support and actively promote our teams' health and well-being. In this third installment of our six-part series, we explore how leaders can build a wellness-friendly work environment that encourages breaks, physical activity, and overall well-being through thoughtful design and accessible resources.

Fostering this environment requires focusing on improvements that may take several years to materialize. It’s essential to prioritize long-term benefits over short-term challenges. Remember that many practices we recommend may challenge the usual working norms. However, the benefits of a healthier, more balanced workplace far outweigh sticking to outdated norms. Consider how, once, the idea of a flexible work schedule seemed unconventional, yet it has become a cornerstone of modern productivity.

Promoting Breaks and Physical Activity

Encouraging regular breaks and physical activity is a cornerstone of a wellness-friendly workplace. Numerous studies have found that these practices are beneficial and essential for reducing stress, boosting creativity, and maintaining overall health. As leaders, it's crucial to challenge the norm of discouraging employees from stepping away from their desks or taking the time they need to recharge. By actively promoting breaks and movement throughout the day, you empower your team and contribute to a more productive and engaged workforce. Here are our recommendations for how you can do so.

Take Lunch Away from the Desk. One simple yet effective strategy is encouraging employees to take their lunch breaks away from their desks. This not only gives them a mental break but also helps prevent burnout. Stepping away from work also allows the mind to move into a more creative space, similar to the burst of insight you get in the shower or when you are out for a walk. Leaders can model this behavior by stepping away for lunch themselves and making it clear that it's okay—preferable, even—to take a break.

Scheduled Breaks. Consider implementing scheduled break times or promoting break areas within the office. These designated times and spaces can create a culture where taking breaks is normalized and encouraged, ultimately leading to higher productivity.

Workouts and Walking Meetings. Physical activity is another crucial aspect of a healthy workplace. Leaders can encourage this by organizing walking meetings, where teams discuss issues on the move rather than sitting in a conference room. Not only does this promote physical health, but it can also lead to more dynamic and creative discussions. 

On-site Fitness Options. Offering on-site fitness options, like a small gym or yoga classes, can make it easier for employees to incorporate exercise into their daily routine. Even if on-site facilities aren't feasible, subsidizing gym memberships or offering fitness challenges can encourage employees to stay active. 

Healthy Workspaces

The physical environment in which employees work significantly impacts their well-being. Creating a comfortable and health-conscious workspace can help prevent physical strain and promote a positive mindset.

Providing Ergonomic Furniture and Workspaces

Ergonomics Matter. Investing in ergonomic furniture—such as adjustable chairs, sit-stand desks, and supportive keyboards—can significantly reduce the risk of musculoskeletal problems. These investments show employees that their health is valued and can lead to fewer workplace injuries and associated costs. 

Workspace Design. Thoughtful workspace design also includes creating spaces that allow movement and flexibility. This could mean setting up collaborative spaces encouraging standing discussions or providing areas where employees can stretch or relax during the day.

Offering Healthy Snacks and Beverages

Nutrition Counts How we fuel our bodies during the workday affects our energy levels and focus. Leaders can contribute to a wellness-friendly environment by offering healthy snacks and beverages in the office. Replace sugary snacks with fruits, nuts, and whole grains, and make water and herbal teas readily available. This small change can have a significant impact on employee well-being and productivity.

Wellness Programs and Resources

Beyond the physical environment, comprehensive wellness programs support employees' health. These programs should be accessible, inclusive, and designed to meet the diverse needs of your workforce.

Subsidizing Gym Memberships and Wellness Programs

Incentivizing Health. One effective strategy is subsidizing gym memberships or offering wellness program stipends. This reduces the financial barrier to staying fit and conveys that the company values and supports employees' health goals. Offering various wellness programs, from physical fitness to mental health resources, ensures that all employees can find something that suits their needs.

Introducing Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

Mental Health Matters. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are valuable resources. EAPs provide employees counseling services, stress management tools, and other mental health resources. By promoting and normalizing the use of EAPs, leaders can create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable seeking help when they need it.

Organizing Wellness Activities

Engage Through Activities, Classes, and Workshops. Regularly organizing wellness activities, such as chair massages, mindfulness workshops, or nutrition seminars, can keep wellness in employees' minds and help employees integrate healthy habits into their daily lives. Other activities could include team-building exercises, fitness challenges, or mental health awareness campaigns. (One of the authors recalls an organization that created a "step challenge" where employees used pedometers and formed teams that competed for prizes. Although this competition tapped into some employees' competitive nature, many were so impressed by their improved health that they kept going long after the competition.) These activities promote individual health and build a sense of community and camaraderie within the workplace.

Conclusion

Creating a wellness-friendly work environment is an ongoing process that requires commitment and creativity. Leaders can foster a culture prioritizing employee well-being by promoting breaks and physical activity, providing healthy workspaces, and offering comprehensive wellness programs.

Tips for Implementing Wellness-Friendly Policies

• Start small and build momentum. Introduce one or two initiatives at a time and gather employee feedback to refine and expand your wellness programs. Be prepared for potential challenges, such as resistance to change or lack of resources, and have strategies to address them.
• Think long-term. If you're beginning your wellness program journey, envision your goal but realize it may take a while to reach it. Keep detailed records as you move forward. Be sure to survey employees before and during your wellness programs.
• Communicate regularly. Use emails, newsletters, and meetings to promote wellness and ensure that employees know what resources are available to them. This regular communication keeps everyone informed and fosters a sense of involvement and connection to the wellness program.
• Give incentives. People naturally seek the benefits (WIIFM) of any undertaking. It's human nature, so leverage their motivations to your advantage. 
• Lead by example. When leaders actively participate in wellness programs and model healthy behaviors, it's not just a personal choice but a powerful tool to influence the entire organization. Your actions set a precedent and inspire others to prioritize their health, contributing to a workplace wellness culture.

Call to Action

Are you a leader ready to revolutionize your workplace into a thriving, wellness-centered environment? We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Connect with our leadership program experts, Robert and Whitnie, to explore powerful strategies for implementing wellness-focused policies to elevate morale, amplify productivity, and enhance overall employee satisfaction. Let’s work together to create a workplace where your leadership not only supports but actively inspires a culture of wellness to flourish and grow. Reach out today to start making a lasting impact on your organization’s health and success.