For most employees, if you ask them to describe the last time they engaged in self-care, chances are they won’t be talking about a moment at work. Rather, time outside of work is much more likely to be associated with self-care and rejuvenating routines. However, times are changing, and companies are becoming more aware of their employees’ needs. It’s no secret that you work better when you feel more appreciated, so what better way to reach your employees than by helping them feel their best?
As a leader, it’s important to be aware of work culture and where things might need adjustments. At the end of the day, you’re creating an environment in which you expect people to spend the majority of their waking hours. Even if you manage a team remotely, you’re expecting them to pay attention and engage with their work in a meaningful way. The best way to begin is by evaluating your current work culture and figuring out where you can implement self-care practices for your employees.
Keep reading for some quick tips on creating a work culture that places a priority on self-care.
· Regular breaks: when employees feel tethered to their desks all day, it’s much more likely that they will engage in distracting, non-work-related activities.
· Get outside: Whether you are working remotely or in person, make sure everyone has an opportunity in their day to take a reprieve outdoors. This is especially important during the months when you experience better weather!
· Offer flexibility: If someone needs to come into work later but they’re willing to stay later, or come in earlier and leave earlier, try to accommodate them when it doesn’t interfere with the company’s needs. It might be a small gesture to you, but it will mean a lot to your employee and translate into their productivity. Similarly, if someone needs to take a longer lunch break to go to an appointment or something else, try to be flexible wherever it won’t affect you.
· Benefits that focus on self-care: If you can, try to give your employees perks that focus on self-care and mental health. Gym discounts and other perks can even attract candidates with the mindset you’re looking for.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, leaders are responsible for creating a work environment that supports the immediate needs of all staff members. Even if you don’t have any self-care-focused initiatives in place right now, there’s no better time to get started.
If you’re unsure of where to begin, reach out to your employees for feedback, you’ll be surprised how far your recognition of their needs will go. You might notice improved engagement right after you start to show an interest in their mental health and day-to-day experience.
Questions for leaders
1. What are you currently doing to promote self-care in the workplace?
2. If you had to guess, do you think your employees feel like they have a good work/life balance and enough time for self-care?
Registration is now open for our next Great Engagement: Engage and Mobilize Employees Training Program, starting January 25, 2023.
For more information and to register:https://lnkd.in/gaSm-2vn
Your organization may be eligible for up to two-thirds of the training cost through the Canada Job Grant program.
Don’t confuse a quiet employee for a happy employee.
“I recently took the Engage and Mobilize Employees course and would highly recommend. The facilitators were professional, well organized and knowledgeable. The materials were great and I am now incorporating all my learning into our organization. Thank you.” — Rachel Sutherland, Program Manager, Children’s and Family Literacy, READ Saskatoon.