Workplace Wellness: Not Just a “Perk”

Stress and overwhelm come in all shapes and sizes. 

In the workplace, someone experiencing chronic stress could appear:

• uninterested

• disengaged

• insubordinate

• irritable

• frequently “sick”

• quiet

• anxious

And that stress may FEEL like it’s 100% work-related.

But there are sneaky little exasperators at play.

• junk/processed foods

• sedentary lifestyle

• poor sleep (scrolling late)

• isolation/loneliness

• fixed mindset

It’s important for leaders to know how to identify the difference between an employee who isn’t fit for the job, and one who is but is unable to apply themselves because of chronic stress and overwhelm. 

It could vastly change the course of what a leader does next.

Do you spend money replacing the employee(s)? Or do you invest money into helping them learn to manage their stress, allowing them to redirect their focus into being a valuable contributor to the company?

Most company benefits are set up to REACT to a problem that’s already happened. 

Just like we shouldn’t be waiting for an injury to get a massage, we shouldn’t be waiting for burnout and a disability claim to address stress in the workplace. 

Prevention is an investment. 

Care is an investment.

Putting your people first is an investment. 

Replacing someone who has filed for stress leave is a cost. To everyone. 

Working 1:1 with a coach or offering group workshops to your team—geared towards preventing burnout, increasing productivity & engagement, and helping improve overall employee well-being—can be a real game-changer for your company’s bottom line. 

I know as you’re reading this you’ve already thought of someone you know or work with who’s struggling. 

Offering medical and dental benefits are the [necessary] bare minimum. Offering snacks and yoga once a month are nice perks. 

Offering your people the opportunity to truly thrive is the biggest perk there is, and is also the “bare minimum”. 

Not only will this work wonders in attracting new talent to your company, but it will truly prove to your existing people that you are invested in their well-being, that it’s not just lip service wrapped up in a job description. 

Employers want more out of their people. 

People want more out of their workplace. 

When people feel healthy, motivated, energetic, and focused, literally everyone wins. 

Yup, it really is that simple.