s we approach the end of 2020, it’s obvious we are globally and collectively over it. Whether your business was booming or a bust, I think we’re ready to say, “Good riddens,” to the start of this century and simply and quietly slide into 2021.

The issues the pandemic forced us to face aren’t going away anytime soon, so now is the perfect time to do a deep dive into company culture and wellness. Before we begin, let’s get on the same page because there’s a huge range of practices when it comes to this space. It covers everything from fitness, nutrition, body positivity, self-care Sundays, #MondayMotivation, and petting random dogs as you’re walking down the street. I’m all about wellness, but probably not in the same way you’re thinking (I can hear the eye rolls already). Wellness doesn’t have to be solely downward dogs, intermittent fasting, and chanting while aligning your chakras (although I admittedly engage in all of those things). The truth is, I rely on daily mindful moments, a regular yoga practice, and a healthy dose of self-care to stay grounded, literally, and figuratively. But, wellness in the workplace doesn’t have to be all or nothing. I’m talking to you, my darling Type-A overachievers. I get you because I am you.

Work and wellness don’t exist in a binary structure—things aren’t simply good or bad, healthy or unhealthy. Forcing employees to comply with any specific type of wellness isn’t going to make them anymore…well. Your approach can truly be whatever works for you and your team; especially when we’re starting to think about those “new year, new you” goals. Integrating wellness can be simple, fun, and free.

GET WOKE ON WORKPLACE WELLNESS

The modern-day work environment has changed significantly over the years and especially these past few months. Employees spend long hours sitting at their desks, eating a quick meal between meetings, and more than likely aren’t drinking enough water. Having happy and healthy employees has been proven time and time again to benefit businesses. It raises morale, increases productivity, lowers healthcare costs, and decreases turnover. During these very unprecedented times, people are feeling the effects of fatigue more than ever. As companies continue to work remotely, employees are constantly behind a computer screen while interacting less with real people. Major disruptions in the workplace like COVID-19 can be a huge source for feelings of isolation, stress, anxiety, and depression—especially if you’re knee-deep in helping with 3rd-grade math while answering emails. Unfortunately, this doesn’t look like it’ll be changing anytime soon. A wellness plan can help make employees happier, which ultimately improves your company’s bottom line. In an article by our friends at Health Affairs, they found that every $1 invested in a wellness program saves $3 in healthcare costs. So awesome! However, there are tons of FREE alternatives to turning those frowns upside down.

DO IT ON PURPOSE

One way employers can promote wellness is by establishing purpose. When people love what they do every day, it no longer feels like work. Employees feel like they are contributing to a team, working towards a goal, and connecting to your brand ethos. That would give anyone all the feels! If you haven’t reached out to your employees recently, it’s time to do so. Especially since the holidays are here. Below are a few free ways you can help establish purpose:

• Recognize employees for the good work they’ve accomplished.
• Fight the “Sunday Scaries” by sending employees some #MondayMotivation.
• Keep your team up-to-date with insider info so they feel involved.
• Emphasize work-life balance with a surprise Friday afternoon off.
• Send out surveys to get honest feedback and make it part of your efforts.

LET’S GET SOCIAL

Let’s take a few steps back before we get all boozy at the company holiday party. Building community is at the core of every successful business. It means caring about our work, our colleagues, and our place in the world (cue the violin). Yet, underneath the economic crisis lies another one of greater proportions—the decline of community. People don’t feel like they belong anymore. That’s why it’s so important employers re-engage and energize their team members. Here are a few things you can do for free—let me lead the way.

• Create a fitness or cooking challenge employees can participate in virtually.
• Set-up a safe, socially distanced happy hour in a local park.
• Offer small support groups for parents, singles, activists, foodies, etc.
• Encourage opportunities for volunteering or giving back to the local community.
• Promote more online interaction that doesn’t involve work. Ask them to share pictures of kids, their lunch, their WFH space, etc.

ALL RIGHT STOP, COLLABORATE AND LISTEN

Vanilla Ice was no dummy when it comes to wellness at the workplace. Collaboration, teamwork, the squad, work wives, whatever you want to call it… this is important stuff here. When employees engage authentically and effectively, productivity can increase and boost morale. In this section, I’ll get into some digital tools to help your team members, well, team up.

• Utilize task-management tools such as Monday, Asana, or Basecamp. These are great for team members to get on the same page and work towards the same goal.
• If you are using Slack or Skype for messaging, create groups that are specific to a topic, project, or “just for fun” conversations.
• Ugh, not another Zoom! However, video conferencing platforms are a great opportunity for 15-minute “coffee and learn” sessions that will get everyone engaged.
• Let’s Roam is a scavenger hunting app that will let your employees engage in epic (and safely distanced) adventures.

LET’S GET PHYSICAL

Exercise, as well as eating delicious and nutritious foods, are important to the well-being of your employees. That doesn’t mean you have to start scheduling HIIT sessions in their calendars, but offering easy and approachable options can promote health and wellness. These types of activities provide social connection, an outlet for stress relief, improved immunity, and newfound energy. All of which contribute to enhanced creativity and higher productivity. It just requires a new approach to fitness, food, and fun. Let’s make some strides in the right direction.

• Every day at the same time, send a calendar invite to remind your team to get up, stretch, and drink water.
• Promote the 10,000 steps a day challenge and let them log their daily amount (only if they’re comfortable).
• Plan a physical activity or challenge where participation is celebrated with a small donation to charity.
• Encourage #MeatlessMondays or have employees share their favorite healthy recipes.

In the spirit of the holidays, it’s the perfect time to get on the wellness train. All you need is a little innovation and a mild dose of effort to watch the wellness expand…kind of like when the Grinch’s heart grows at the end of the movie.

More than anything, an authentic approach to building bonds and promoting a healthier lifestyle can make a big difference. What do you have to lose? Pretty much nothing at all. There are lots of creative ventures you can explore!

Make it a goal to help your employees feel healthier and happier. And it will ultimately help you build a business that’s better for all of mankind. So, until next time…well wishes.