Emotional Wellbeing

How to Deal with Burnout: A Guide for Team Leaders

September 25, 2022
The Wellness Tribe

Many employees feel the shift to remote work has been a welcome change from the in-office routine despite the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. In contrast, for others, the disadvantages of remote work became apparent as weeks turned into months and months into a year.

If you have access to the internet 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and don't need to commute, separating work and personal life can be challenging. Late night work and weekend work become more common. Our survey found that 77% of employees have experienced burnout. If staffing levels are cut, workloads increase and burnout quickly become a reality.

The good news is that it is preventable. Employee engagement through an employee wellness program is one important component. Employees that are engaged are happier and more productive. Greater resiliency benefits the organisation as well. However, effective tools and consistent efforts are required to keep staff engaged, reduce burnout, and guarantee that everyone is working toward the same goals.

Here are six strategies to help employees avoid burnout, increase employee engagement, and build resiliency.

Facilitate Better Communication

Facilitate Better Communication
Photo by Headway on Unsplash

It is necessary to communicate with your employees to understand their perspectives, difficulties, and perceptions of the organisation and management. Assessments should not be restricted to once a year. More frequency and consistency are crucial in mixed work environments, where employees may feel like they are working in a vacuum. Employees should be able to communicate through all channels available to avoid mental health issues that may arise from isolation.

Small chat groups and meet-ups like virtual lunchrooms and happy hours, as well as one-on-one meetings centred on progress and goals, are all examples of communication touchstones. You can create connections through them, unwind, reduce loneliness, and spot other people who are struggling. But, again, this could help you intervene before things get worse.

"Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence." - Sheryl Sandberg

Allow Employees to Take Time Off.

In many organisations, downtime must be considered to meet demand. Although the redistribution of work may be complex, downtime cannot be ignored. Provide employees with the option of taking breaks, personal days, or vacations when necessary.

Your company's typical working hours should be clearly communicated to employees. In addition, they should be encouraged to turn off their phones and laptops when they are not working. Recognising that they have the right to separate work and personal life will encourage employees to do so. In order to motivate employees to do these things, you might want to introduce some employee wellness initiatives. 

Even short breaks throughout the day can help improve their mood and productivity. Make it clear to your team members that they should not check their emails while on vacation. Find someone to cover their position if it is essential. Upon their return, they will be well-rested and ready to work.

Make Collaboration Easier by Investing in Tools.

Make Collaboration Easier by Investing in Tools.
Photo by Akson on Unsplash

Retention requires high levels of engagement and communication. Employees don't quit their jobs because they're awful. They leave lousy managers behind them. Organisational goals are more likely to be achieved by employees who clearly understand their responsibilities and are supported in fulfilling them.

Using employee engagement and performance management technology can help to boost productivity, knowledge sharing, and cooperation. Engagement will close the gap by providing coaching and feedback to both in-office and remote employees, connecting individual and team objectives to the organisation's strategic priorities.

Concentrate on the “Why”

Burnout is typically caused by a gap between a person's values and tasks. Although you are worried and exhausted, you continue to work, forgetting the reasons you joined the company or job in the first place. There is a risk of harm from it. 

Creating a shared sense of why is a task for any leader must determine why we are motivated to complete the goal. As a leader, it is your responsibility to energise your team. Remember the purpose and why it is crucial for the business and your customers. People are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs if they share common beliefs and connections.

Commit to Mental Health and Empathy

There is increasing recognition that mental health is vital for individuals, groups, and society. Moreover, those their leaders support through empathy are more likely, to be honest and accurate. 

When companies build stronger relationships with their employees, employees report it improved mental and physical health by 23% and 17%, respectively. Companies that provide holistic support to their employees report an increase of 21% in high performers. Additionally, employees feel heard and validated, resulting in a more productive work environment and a happier mind body soul.

Prioritise Your Own Health.

Before you can help your team members manage their stress, you must work on your own. Consider how you can help your employees get what they need instead of hunkering down and focusing" on your task.  

The best start is by taking care of your physical and emotional health first; you need to take care of yourself. Get enough sleep at night, eat healthfully, exercise regularly, meditate, and find another person to vent to who isn't "your boss.". Taking care of oneself is more than a luxury; it is a necessity.

Occupational Wellbeing

Bringing Nature to the Corporate World: Nature-Based Wellness

January 10, 2023
Nitesh Padghan

Nature has always been a source of solace and rejuvenation for the human spirit, offering a peaceful escape from the chaos of daily life. But did you know that this same sense of peace and renewal can also be brought into the workplace and help achieve work life balance? 

The concept of nature-based wellness has been gaining ground in the corporate world for a good reason. The benefits of incorporating elements of nature into the workplace are numerous and range from reduced stress levels to increased creativity and productivity. 

This article delves into the science behind nature-based wellness, its impact on the corporate world, and the steps companies can take to bring the outdoors in and foster a nature-filled workplace culture. 

So, let's take a deep breath, close our eyes, and imagine a nature-infused workspace. Are you ready? Let's begin our journey.

Nature's Healing Powers

Bringing Nature to the Corporate World: Nature-Based Wellness
Photo by George Milton

Nature profoundly affects our well-being, which is rooted in the deep connection between our bodies and minds. Studies have shown that just a few minutes spent in nature can lead to lower levels of stress hormones and increased feelings of calm and tranquillity. 

So, how does this magic happen? The answer lies in our mind-body connection. When we immerse ourselves in nature, our bodies respond by relaxing, reducing stress, and promoting a sense of well-bein

"Nature is not just a backdrop for our lives; it is the essential foundation for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being." - Jane Goodall.

Nature not only has a calming effect on our minds but also has the power to spark our creativity and productivity. Studies have shown that exposure to nature positively impacts cognitive function and creativity, making it a valuable tool for businesses looking to increase productivity. 

A Nature-filled Workplace: A Guide

A nature-loving workplace culture inspires creativity, innovation, and collaboration. It fosters a sense of purpose and meaning, as employees feel like they are contributing to a greater cause. It promotes health and well-being, as nature has been proven to reduce stress, boost immunity, and improve mood.

Creating a nature-loving workplace culture requires a shift in mindset from a focus on productivity and profit to a focus on people and the planet. It requires leaders who are passionate about nature and who lead by example. It requires a commitment to continuous improvement and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

Simple plant-infusion techniques

Bringing the outdoors in has never been easier. Here are a few simple ways to infuse nature into your workplace:

  • Add potted plants to your office space. Studies have shown that just a few plants can significantly improve indoor air quality and reduce stress levels.
  • Create a “green wall” by hanging plants on a living wall. This adds a pop of colour, helps improve air quality, and provides a calming effect.
  • Use natural light and open windows. Encourage employees to take breaks outside or in a well-lit area.
  • Incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, and glass into your office design. These elements provide a connection to nature and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Creating a nature-loving workplace culture

Creating a nature-loving culture starts at the top. Encourage your leadership team to embrace the benefits of nature and incorporate them into the workplace. Some ways to do this are:

  • Offer regular nature-based wellness activities, like guided hikes or outdoor yoga sessions.
  • Encourage employees to take breaks and step outside to appreciate the natural world.
  • Provide a quiet, nature-filled space for employees to take a break, relax and recharge.
  • Encourage employees to bring in natural elements from home, such as photos of their favourite outdoor spot or a small potted plant.

In addition to the physical environment, a nature-loving workplace culture encourages sustainable practices. From reducing paper usage to implementing a recycling program, employees are educated on how their actions can impact the environment and are given the tools to make a positive change.

Moreover, a nature-loving workplace culture promotes opportunities for employees to participate in community outreach and environmental initiatives. This not only fosters a sense of community within the workplace but also allows employees to impact the world outside of their job positively.

Encouraging employee involvement

Bringing Nature to the Corporate World: Nature-Based Wellness
Photo by Gary Barnes

Employee involvement is key to creating a nature-filled workplace. Encourage your team to participate in nature-based wellness activities and bring their love of nature into the workplace. Here are a few ways to get started:

  • Appoint a 'Green Team' - elect a 2-4 member team to come up with ideas 
  • Provide resources - Arrange workshops & seminars for knowledge sharing
  • Encourage participation: Offer incentives for employee involvement
  • Experience sharing: Allow employees to share outdoor stories

Final Words

The importance of incorporating nature into the corporate wellness arena cannot be overstated. It’s not just about creating a more aesthetically pleasing work environment; it’s about investing in the well-being of employees and creating a workplace culture that values wellness. By doing so, businesses will see increased employee engagement and satisfaction and a more positive and productive workplace.

As a corporate wellness company, we invite businesses throughout the world to incorporate nature into workplaces. Whether it’s placing potted plants, offering outdoor wellness activities, or simply encouraging employees to step outside, there are many ways to bring nature into the workplace. 

By doing so, you’ll be making a positive investment in the well-being of your colleagues and creating a more positive and productive work environment. So, take the challenge and start incorporating nature into your workplace today!

Occupational Wellbeing

Surviving the Rough Days: A Guide for HR Professionals

April 27, 2023
The Wellness Tribe Team

Imagine this: It's a Monday morning, and as an HR professional, you're about to kick off your day with back-to-back meetings. You have a long list of tasks to complete, and the pressure is already building. Suddenly, your phone rings and an employee informs you that they're having a terrible day at work. Maybe their workload is overwhelming, or they're struggling with a colleague. Whatever the reason, they need your help.

As an HR professional, it's your job to not only help employees navigate tough situations but also to ensure that the workplace fosters employee well-being. In this article, we'll explore how to deal with a bad day at work from an HR perspective. 

So, buckle up, and get ready to learn how to turn those lemons into lemonade!

The Tell-Tale Signs

As an HR professional, one of your key roles is to support your employees. And, as much as we'd love it if every day were sunshine and rainbows, we know that bad days happen. But how can you tell when an employee is having a rough time? Here are a few signs to watch out for:

  • Decreased productivity: If an employee who's usually on top of things is suddenly falling behind, it might be a sign that something's up.
  • Mood changes: If an employee is usually friendly and approachable but is suddenly snappy or short with colleagues, it might be a sign that they're having a tough day.
  • Physical symptoms: Headaches, fatigue, and stomach issues can all be signs of stress or anxiety.
  • Withdrawal: If an employee who's usually social and engaged with their colleagues is suddenly keeping to themselves, it might be a sign that something's wrong.

Remember, these signs don't necessarily mean that an employee is having a terrible day, but they're worth paying attention to. If you notice any of these signs, take the time to check in with the employee and see how they're doing.

Exploring the Root Causes

So, you've identified that an employee is having a bad day at work. But what's causing it? As an HR professional, it's important to understand the root causes of employee dissatisfaction so that you can help address them. Here are a few common causes of bad days at work:

  • Heavy workload: If an employee is feeling overwhelmed or like they're drowning in their work, it can lead to stress and burnout.
  • Interpersonal conflicts: If an employee is having issues with a colleague or manager, it can make for a tense and uncomfortable work environment.
  • Personal issues: If an employee is going through a tough time outside of work, it can spill over into their workday and make it difficult for them to focus.
  • Lack of support: If an employee feels like they don't have the resources or support they need to do their job well, it can be demotivating and frustrating.

By understanding these root causes, you can work with employees to help address them. Whether it's through additional resources to help them deal with burnout, conflict resolution, or simply offering a listening ear, as an HR professional, you have the power to make a positive impact on employee well-being.

Steps to Deal with a Bad Day at Work

So, you've identified the signs of a bad day and understand the root causes. What's next? 

Here are a few steps employees can take to deal with a bad day at work.:

  • Take a break: Sometimes, stepping away from your work and taking a few deep breaths can do wonders for your mental state.
  • Talk it out: Whether it's with a colleague, a friend, or an HR representative, sometimes talking about what's bothering you can help you process your emotions.
  • Focus on the positive: When things aren't going well, it can be easy to get bogged down in negativity. Instead, try to focus on the things that are going well and find reasons to be grateful.
  • Practice self-care: Whether it's going for a walk, taking a bath, or treating yourself to your favorite snack, practicing self-care can help you feel more centered and grounded.

As an HR professional, you can support employees by providing resources and guidance on embracing resilience at work. Whether through an employee assistance program, mental health resources, or simply offering a sympathetic ear, you can help employees bounce back after a tough day.

Remember, resilience is a skill that can be developed over time. By encouraging employees to take care of themselves and offering support when they need it, you can help them build the resilience they need to thrive in the workplace.

Prevention is Key

While dealing with bad days is important, preventing them in the first place is even better. As an HR professional, you have the power to create a work environment that fosters employee well-being and reduces the likelihood of bad days. Here are a few ways to proactively prevent bad days at work:

  • Build a positive work culture: By encouraging positive communication, recognition, and collaboration, you can create a work environment where employees feel valued and supported.
  • Provide opportunities for growth: Employees who feel like they're constantly learning and growing are more likely to be engaged and motivated at work.
  • Offer flexible work arrangements: Whether it's remote work or flexible hours, giving employees more control over their work schedule can reduce stress and improve work-life balance.
  • Address issues promptly: When conflicts or issues arise, address them promptly and with empathy. Taking a proactive approach to conflict resolution can prevent issues from escalating and creating a negative work environment.

Taking a proactive approach to employee well-being can create a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated. Not only does this lead to happier employees, but it can also lead to increased productivity and employee retention. 

As an HR professional, you have the power to create a workplace that not only prevents bad days but also fosters employee happiness and success.

Together, We Can Make Every Day a Good Day at Work

Dealing with bad days at work can be a challenging task, but by recognizing the signs, understanding the root causes, and taking practical steps to prevent them, you can create a positive work environment where employees feel valued and supported. 

At The Wellness Tribe, we understand the importance of employee well-being and offer a range of corporate wellness solutions to help organizations create a healthy work environment. Our programs are designed to address physical, mental, and emotional health, with a focus on prevention and early intervention. 

We believe that by prioritizing employee well-being, organizations can achieve better business outcomes, including increased productivity, engagement, and retention.

Join the Wellness Tribe

Join The Tribe

This month we are focusing on food and how it affects your mental health. Join us as we bring in the most relevant interesting content from across the wellness segment.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.