How to help employees develop a positive outlook | HR strategies for wellbeing and motivation

Research shows that happy employees take less sick leave, are six times more energetic and twice as productive as their least happy colleagues.

We are living through undeniably uncertain times, and life is difficult for many people at the moment. Yet with a few changes to our daily routines, most of us can improve our health and wellbeing and face the future with a more positive, optimistic outlook. That is good for employees and employers alike—for people and for business.

Recognise and reward

Recognising and rewarding your employees’ efforts and achievements can go a long way towards encouraging a lasting positive outlook. Employees who receive recognition for a job well done are likely to feel energised and motivated, increasing their job satisfaction. Reward schemes that celebrate success can create a culture of appreciation and belonging. They can attract future employees and give those considering a move a reason to stay. Happier employees are also likely to influence their colleagues’ behaviour, creating a more positive working environment overall.

Develop a sense of community

One of the positive lessons from the pandemic was the sense of community we discovered. Corporate charity partnerships are an excellent way to engage everyone and bring businesses and local communities together for a positive cause. Consider finding one or more charitable initiatives—the Christmas and New Year holidays are approaching, so what better time? These can be a wonderful opportunity for employees to do something good together. Doing good is energising.

Encourage movement

Endorphins help the body avoid pain and increase feelings of pleasure. A lack of endorphins can contribute to anxiety, depression and sleep problems. The good news is that physical exercise stimulates endorphin release, making movement a great way to improve mood.

Encourage your people to take regular breaks, get up and move around. Introduce walking meetings and mindfulness breaks. Offer fitness or yoga classes, or another suitable activity, at the office. Health and wellbeing challenges can also be a fun way to build a team—for example, a challenge to drink eight glasses of water a day.

Finally, staying in one fixed position—sitting or standing—for too long is not healthy. Adjustable desks allow employees to switch easily between the two while they work.

Take a digital detox

So many of us live on our phones these days: checking social media, catching up on emails and following the news. It is hard to escape the world’s troubles and bad news when you are constantly connected to the flow of information. Hybrid working has blurred the boundaries between work and personal life, making it difficult for employees to switch off. If an employee regularly works outside “normal” working hours, consider talking to them about how you can help them manage their workload and work–life balance more effectively.

Lead by example

Try to use positive language when talking to people, smile more, make eye contact and remember to say “Thank you”. Just as your reward scheme can help build trust and appreciation, a little kindness in the workplace can go a long way towards helping people feel happy in their jobs.