Much evidence shows that most of us are better off mentally and physically when we’re employed and that striking the right balance of work, rest and play in a supportive workplace is the best bet.
Regardless of whether your stress is due to an insurmountable workload, an uneasy office vibe or a manager that specialises in put-downs, it’s a situation that can eat away at your confidence, self-esteem and become demoralising.
Toxic work environments can also lead to low productivity, unsafe conditions and costly staff turnover. Happier workplaces are better for bosses, workers and business in general.
Nine way how do you look after your workplace wellbeing:
- Limit extra working hours
Work commitments can get crazy sometimes, but when long hours become the norm rather than the exception, it can negatively impact our health.
- Schedule meetings during work hours
Arranging meetings to begin and end only within core working hours will help to ensure your precious ‘out-of-hours’ time is protected.
- Take regular breaks
Being busy all the time will ultimately lead to burnout. Research tells us that taking breaks, both physical and mental, boosts productivity.
- Try not to take work home
Adding an extra hour or two at home to tidy up a work project can quickly become a habit, but again, think of it as the exception and not the rule. Downtime is vital for a healthy work-life balance.
- Take your holiday leave
A complete break from work has big mental and physical health benefits. Taking a holiday can help to reduce work-related stress, prevent anxiety and depression, and increase work performance and productivity.
- It’s okay to say ‘no’
It can be difficult to say, but ‘no’ isn’t a dirty word as far as your workload is concerned. Be genuine and state your reasons clearly. In the long run, the outcome will be more positive, and you’ll be in a better position to say yes next time.
- Have a tech ‘switch off’ time
Resist the pressure to look at work emails outside of work hours. This can be a creeping habit in lots of workplaces – lead by example and don’t let the late-night email scroll become part of your work culture.
- Explore flexible working arrangements where possible
Making work fit better into your day-to-day life can help to improve your general wellbeing. Work closely and negotiate with your employer – you will need to be able to do your job in an effective manner that works for both of you.
- Make use of EAP Assist
Contact EAP Assist to help with personal and work-related issues that may impact job performance, health, mental and emotional wellbeing.