Whether it’s mental health, physical health, or overall quality of life, employees are looking for leaders who prioritize their wellbeing. This is particularly true in today’s fast-paced, high-stress work environment, where burnout and work-related stress is becoming increasingly common. In response, many businesses are now incorporating wellbeing into their leadership strategies, recognizing that a focus on wellbeing not only benefits employees but also leads to increased productivity, heightened morale, and better overall performance. Wellbeing is now considered a crucial pillar of effective leadership, and leaders who prioritize it are seen as more successful and respected. As such, it’s becoming increasingly important for leaders to take an active role in prioritizing wellbeing for themselves and their teams. Employee well-being has been considered a critical component of overall company success. According to Gallup research, employees reporting poor mental health are less productive and more likely to miss work. The COVID-19 pandemic and the shift to remote work heightened the need for employers to prioritize employee health and well-being. However, mental health issues, stress and anxiety are still prevalent as the news of possible recessions and layoffs continue to cause fear and uncertainty.
Despite tough economic times, it is crucial for employers to prioritize the mental health and well-being of their employees to build a culture of holistic well-being, including physical, emotional, financial, social, career, community, and purpose. According to Future Workplace, seven pillars of employee well-being can guide employers in prioritizing the well-being of their workers.
Employers may have rationalized cutting mental health support services, but how they treat employees today will have a significant impact on their future business. Prioritizing employee well-being can reduce absenteeism, improve productivity, and create a happier and healthier workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent.
As a business leader, leading by example is crucial in inspiring employees to prioritize their own well-being. Employers can create a culture of well-being to support employee health, including workplace wellness programs designed to reduce absenteeism and improve productivity. Wellness programs should meet employee needs and interests with provisions like stress management workshops, mindfulness training and nutrition education. Mental health is a critical component that employers should prioritize in their wellness programs. Employers should provide support, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), to help employees manage mental health issues like stress, anxiety, and depression. EAPs provide confidential counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, and other resources such as financial counseling and legal advice.
Flexible work arrangements are also crucial in reducing work-related stress and improving job satisfaction. Employers who offer flexible work arrangements, like remote work or flexible hours, can reduce employee stress levels and increase productivity. In conclusion, prioritizing employee health and well-being is essential for any business to succeed. Employers can provide resources like access to healthcare, fitness facilities, and mental health resources, and offer high-quality healthcare that meets employee needs. Employers can also encourage employees to prioritize their physical health with facilities and discounts on gym memberships. Employers who prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional health of their employees can create a happy, healthy, and more productive workplace.
ALSO READ: AND JUST LIKE THAT, WE FOUND CARRIE BRADSHAW’S MOST ICONIC LOOKS.
