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- The Rise of Rest Spaces: Redefining Office Design for Wellbeing
Employee wellbeing has become a top priority for businesses worldwide, but how is this reflected in the future of office design? Recent trends and data indicate a growing demand for office amenities that prioritise relaxation and mental health. According to a survey by Future of Work Survey JLL 43% of organisations will accelerate their investment in new or enhanced health & wellbeing amenities for employees. One trend is clear when designing office spaces for wellbeing: the demand for rest spaces (nap pods), is on the rise. Numerous future of work reports are coming up with the same conclusion - the office needs rest spaces. Nearly half of UK workers express a desire for regular naps during their office day, highlighting the growing importance of relaxation and rejuvenation in the workplace. From managed office platform Kitt workplace survey. The most popular office space benefits put rest spaces at number two after garden spaces, followed by games rooms at number 3, gym space and then coffee bars according to Facilities Management Journal Those aged 18-25 named napping pods (23%) as one of their top amenities to make them happy and productive in the workplace, followed by the gym and office pets. This underscores the increasing recognition of the value of rest in the workplace. Research by Workthere Cosmopolitan's Magazines Future of Work Survey summerises that millenials are 'likely to swap a hefty paycheck for nap rooms' How do rest spaces fit into modern offices? An environment tailored for rest With features such as full privacy, darkness, and soundproofing, alongside the option to lie down in a comfortable position, these innovative spaces offer a sanctuary for employees seeking respite from the bustling office environment. Privacy is essential for fostering relaxation and rejuvenation, yet existing beanbag and wellbeing spaces often overlook this critical requirement, leading individuals to resort to using toilet cubicles for rest. Our research indicates that 80% of professional services employees have napped at work within the past year, with toilet cubicles being the number one location. Modular Office Design These rest spaces complement modern office design, particularly in open-plan environments. Similar to office phone booths, these compact spaces can be seamlessly integrated into existing office layouts, providing employees with a dedicated area for relaxation without the need for extensive renovations or dedicated rooms. Inclusive wellbeing centred office design But rest spaces go beyond mere functionality – they embody a wellbeing-centric approach to office design that is increasingly shaping the future of the workplace. These spaces cater to the diverse needs of employees, including new parents, individuals experiencing menopause, neurodiverse colleagues, and those coping with stress, anxiety, jet lag and much more. By offering a workspace to manage stress, anxiety, and overstimulation, nap pods contribute to a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture. Sustainability in office design A fundamental aspect in the future of workspace design is sustainability. Built with sustainability in mind, Rest Spaces are built locally prioritising sustainably sourced materials and designed to be easy to repair with replaceable parts, reducing their environmental footprint and promoting a circular economy. Businesses increasingly prioritising sustainability in their office design, integrating rest spaces into office design aligns with the broader goal of creating environmentally conscious workplaces, and encoraging sustainable working habits, As workplaces strive to create healthier and more productive work environments, nap pods emerge as a valuable asset. By embracing these innovative spaces, companies can foster a culture of wellbeing and productivity, ultimately leading to happier and more engaged employees. Rest spaces represent a paradigm shift in office design, prioritising employee wellbeing, inclusivity, and sustainability. By embracing these innovative spaces, businesses can create healthier, more productive work environments that support the holistic needs of their workforce. As the workplace continues to evolve, rest spaces will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of office design. References: Facilities Management Journal. (n.d.). Workplace Trends Survey JLL Future of work survey Knight Frank (Y)OUR SPACE. Workplace Trends Workthere office survey Kitt Workplace Survey
- Best Wellbeing Service Provider Awards 2024
What a way to start the year! We're thrilled to announce that Rest Space has been shortlisted among the Great British Workplace Wellbeing Series Awards 2024 under the Best Wellbeing Service Provider category! This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering a workplace culture that prioritises comfort and warmth, setting the stage for optimal rest and rejuvenation. It's not just an accolade; it's an opportunity to amplify our mission: redefining how people approach rest in the workplace. Established in 2019, Rest Space was born from a collective vision for change where we believe that rest is fundamental to productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Being shortlisted for this prestigious award reaffirms that we're on the right path, and we're eager to continue pushing boundaries and advocating for restful work environments. Thank you to our dedicated team (Kate Mulligan, Supa Chantschool, Chidinma Beatrice Egwu), our supportive community, and the Great British Workplace Wellbeing Series Awards for this incredible opportunity. Together, let's redefine rest in the workplace and create a work environment where everyone can thrive. #workplacewellbeing #restspace #GBWWA2024 #wellbeingrevolution
- Seasonal Approach to Workplace Well-being
Ever thought about how the changing seasons impact well-being at work and how to approach workplace wellbeing during these times? This is valuable because it acknowledges the influence of changing seasons on employee well-being and productivity. Supporting employees during these peaks and troughs is important. Here are a few ways to incorporate seasons into workplace well-being initiatives: 1. Offering flexible work arrangements to align with seasonal changes. For example, you can offer flexibility during the summer for extended daylight utilisation and accommodate personal obligations. In colder months, provide indoor-focused options to navigate shorter daylight periods. 2. Developing seasonal well-being campaigns that align with the unique characteristics of each season. During winter, you can focus on initiatives mitigating cold weather effects, such as promoting indoor exercises, light therapy, or social activities to combat isolation. 3. Providing resources that address specific well-being needs associated with different seasons. This can include educational materials, webinars, or workshops on seasonal affective disorder (SAD) during the winter, heat stress prevention during the summer, or allergy management during the spring. 4. Organising wellness challenges or competitions that align with seasonal themes. For example, in the spring, you can launch a step-count challenge to encourage increased physical activity as the weather improves. In the autumn, create a healthy recipe contest using seasonal produce. These activities can boost engagement, motivation, and experience among employees. The idea of offering workshops and intensive sessions can bridge the gap and cater to people's preferences during slower periods. They can also discuss the challenge of balancing the needs of different regions and seasons, acknowledging the extreme weather conditions in certain areas. Happy employees are the heartbeat of a thriving workplace, infusing positivity and passion into every endeavour. Invest in happiness, and watch your workforce radiate enthusiasm, creativity, and unwavering dedication. Check out our workplace wellbeing community meetups here and join the community here
- Breaking the Stigma: Normalising Naps in The Workplace
Did you know that in the UK, a staggering 207,000 working days are lost annually due to insufficient sleep? Behind this number lies the annual cost of lost sleep to the UK, amounting to around £50 billion. Yes, you read that right! The impact of insufficient sleep on employees extends beyond tired eyes and yawns—it's hitting our economy, workplaces, and overall well-being. Lack of quality sleep affects productivity, cognitive function, and overall health. From workplace accidents to decreased efficiency, the consequences are real. If employers embraced workplace napping, this option could produce a comparatively more marked and sustained increase in productivity However, the effects of insufficient sleep and the benefits of quality rest can be balanced and regained through healthy sleep practices and lifestyle accommodations. Taking a nap at work is a healthy and effective way to maintain balance, especially when You stay consistent Put off all electronic devices before taking that nap Keeping a rest or sleep diary Studies have shown that napping during the day for 20 minutes can enhance memory retention, sharpen your focus, and lower your blood pressure, propelling you to new heights of productivity and success and giving you an edge at work. David Radcliffe, VP of real estate and workplace services at Google, said in an interview with CBS, “No workplace is complete without a nap pod.” Gone are the days when CEOs boasted about surviving on minimal sleep, wearied by the relentless pursuit of success. Today, the narrative is shifting, and it's a welcome sign of progress. They are now openly sharing their commitment to a balanced lifestyle, celebrating the importance of quality sleep even at work, and recognising its profound impact on their well-being and productivity. Some companies like Google, Uber, Nike, Cisco, Zappos, and Huffington Post are investing heavily in their employee well-being by providing them with spaces to take a rest at work. We can invest in employee sleep to yield long term benefits by fostering sleep-friendly workplaces and embracing a culture that values the importance of rest. We can do this by Promoting a supportive sleep environment at work Providing a dedicated nap space such as the Rest Space Encouraging naps for restoration. Raising awareness about the impact of sleep on overall well-being. Together, we can create workplaces that recognise the importance of sufficient sleep. It's time to break the stigma by normalising naps in the workplace, prioritising rest and building a culture that values the health and productivity of everyone. Rest Space is offering to elevate your workplace wellbeing through a sleep engagement initiative. Take advantage of this as we approach Sleep Week 2024 in 5 weeks.
- Celebrating World Wellbeing at Work Week 2023
This World WellBeing at Work Week 2023, How are you changing the future of work? Let us dive deep into the core elements that shape our work environment. Recognising the importance of breaks, what measures have you explored to enhance your workforce experience and contribute to their overall wellbeing? Rest is fundamental, yet an astonishing 88% of people we surveyed have nowhere to rest at work. A private rest space can make a big difference! It can allow you to recover physically and mentally, reduce stress and strain on the body and enhance performance and alertness. An NHS doctor told us; “This is needed because fatigue makes me less efficient, more liable to make mistakes, and take longer to make decisions” It's not only a physical space; it's a haven where you can rest, recharge, and take a mindful pause amidst the day's demands. It's a place where the chaos of the workday fades away and a sense of calm takes over. Every element was thoughtfully chosen to create an atmosphere of tranquillity. Whether it's a few minutes of deep breathing, a power nap, or simply a moment of quiet reflection, this space is yours to embrace and make your own. 'Having access to a RestSpace was an absolute Godsend! The relief was immeasurable both physically and psychologically. I didn't have to choose between the health of my baby and my work; we had waited 6 years to fall pregnant' - Business owner Our focus is clear: We are empowering people to be more productive, focused and happier, especially in the moments that matter most and cultivating a workplace culture that thrives, sustains, motivates, and propels you towards greater productivity. Our commitment to employee wellbeing extends beyond professional tasks. True productivity arises from a harmonious balance of effort and restoration. The Rest Space is a testament to this belief, emphasising the significance of intentional rest in sustaining a high-performing and contented team. We encourage you to integrate moments of rest into your workforce routine and let this space be what fuels your creativity and energy. Embrace the power of intentional rest, and together, let's foster a culture that values not just the hours worked but the moments of rejuvenation that make our work truly sustainable. To learn more about the features and benefits of our products, visit restspaceldn #WorldWellbeingatWorkWeek #workplacewellbeing #Workplaceculture
- Celebrating Purple Tuesday - Creating more inclusive work environments
What does diversity and inclusion look like in your work environment? How are we serving those who work for us? Does it include providing spaces for people to rest at work? I have the privilege of knowing someone close to me who has shared their need to nap story. They mentioned that they need to nap most days due to the side effects of their long-term illness. Working in a competitive finance field, they excel at work but they feel they are held back by not having the option to be in the office when they want. She confides: "That 15-minute nap does wonders for me, keeping me at the peak of my productivity and energy. The challenge is that I have nowhere to nap while at work.” She has to choose between working at home because of the opportunity to nap or being in the office to build connections but not operating at their peak. Management knows that being supportive of her health challenges doesn’t change the fact that the office isn’t set up to accommodate them. The benefits of napping cannot be overemphasised. It's not a luxury but a necessity. Just 20 minutes of quality naps can enhance memory retention, sharpen focus, and even lower blood pressure, propelling us to new heights of achievement and well-being, and giving you an edge at work. Napping is great for everyone but there are some people for whom it is essential for managing their unique circumstances. I recently met a lawyer who shared their need to nap story, “I have anaemia, and a 20 min rest makes such a difference to my day. I am so lucky my company provides a space and that my manager understands." Their story resonates with many who face similar hidden challenges; whether autism, narcolepsy, circadian disorders, chronic illness, or migraines, a rest pace can be a game changer, empowering these individuals to bring their best into their work. Creating more inclusive work environments means having a space at work that can provide privacy and silence - a space to shut off from the busy workplace. Work environments for many of us can be demanding on our energy and overwhelming to be in for long periods of time. A space designed to provide the best possible environment for everyone. Napping isn't just about comfort; it's about promoting better and improving health and well-being. We champion inclusivity in the workplace and the importance of creating spaces for everyone to thrive. During #PurpleTuesday, let's stand together for a more diverse, accessible, and inclusive world. Because inclusivity isn't just a concept; it's a promise we deliver through Rest Space, one nap at a time. 💜 #PurpleTuesday #DisabilityAwareness #Accessibility #InclusiveBusiness #EqualAccess #DisabilityRights #AccessForAll
- How did we screw up sleep?
Why do I find it hard to sleep? You ever wonder how we messed up something so basic? How did we end up here? So, picture this: Our ancestors had sleep all figured out. When the sun went down, they hit the hay, and when it rose, they woke up. It was a simple, natural rhythm. Fast forward to today, and that rhythm is like a forgotten melody. Blame it on tech, work stress, or the constant buzz around us—we've lost the plot. Seriously, how did we mess up something this simple? Sleep's Sneaky Impact: What Happens When We Go Off Track Okay, let me break it down. When you mess with sleep, it messes with you right back. How? Our moods start to swing like a playground swing set, our thinking goes fuzzy, and we're more likely to catch every bug going around. Worse yet, making you vulnerable to a gang of chronic health issues. Sleep isn't just a luxury; it's the secret sauce that keeps us ticking. Who knew sleep had this much power over us? Naps: Our Little Heroes in Pajamas Taking a nap But amidst this sleep-deprived landscape, there's a beacon of hope—naps—those glorious pockets of shut-eye that we often brush off while you are working on getting our sleep back on track, or they are especially needed for those days when sleep wasn't adequate. Naps aren't just for poor sleep; they're for everyone. But you appreciate them that much more when you haven't had the best sleep. Worried it will mess up your nighttime sleep? - Don't. Naps are for the afternoon, not 8 p.m. just before you go to bed (or something like that; basically, you need about 6 hours to build up enough adenosine to have a good night's sleep after your nap). Worried about feeling groggy, With all good things, it takes practice. Getting your body into the rhythm of napping can help you find your perfect nap time and avoid the grogginess Think of them as mini superhero naps, swooping in to save the day when our sleep tanks are empty. They boost our mood, offer a chance to reset, rejuvenate, and reclaim the vitality that is rightfully ours. Scientifically proven to enhance a burst of creativity, alertness, and mood. Naps are a bridge back to the slumber we've forsaken. Who'd have thought naps could be so heroic? Do you underestimate naps? Diving into Solutions: Improving Sleep With Nap Pods In the midst of this reclamation, Rest Space stands as a haven, an oasis of tranquilly in a sleep-starved world. Imagine a snug, quiet corner just waiting for you to snooze away your troubles. Our napping pods are designed with a deep understanding of the art of restfulness and one goal in mind: to give you the best nap ever. From the chill ambiance to the comfort, every element is meticulously curated to provide the best environment for rejuvenating naps. It's the nap spot dreams are made of. Incorporating napping into your daily routine is a great way to balance and improve your sleep habits. When you give sleep the VIP treatment it deserves by embracing naps, setting a regular bedtime (like you're making a date with your favourite show), dimming the lights, ditching the screens before hitting the sack, doing regular exercises, reducing your caffeine intake, and practising meditation, you see a difference in your sleep lifestyle. Meet your new nap BFF—Rest Space to the rescue! Seriously, this is nap-paradise. The Rest Space Rewriting the Sleep Story: Let's Do This! So, there you have it—our journey from sleep mess to sleep success. It's like untangling a headphone cord (you know, the kind that magically ties itself into knots?). Yeah, it might take a bit of effort, but it's totally doable. It's time to reclaim what's rightfully ours: a darn good night's sleep. Who's with me? Let's fix this sleep thing, one nap at a time. It's time to give sleep the love it needs. Easy peasy. Let's make sleep great again! www.restspaceldn.com
- Nap for success this World Wellbeing Week!
After a nap Do you feel you are not as productive as you could be during the day? Do you struggle to focus and complete tasks efficiently? Do you feel your breaks are not as energising as you would like them to be? If so, it might be time to consider taking a nap. Yes, you read that right - a nap The future of work includes napping Despite the stigma surrounding napping, research has shown that taking a quick snooze can have numerous benefits for both mental and physical health. In the United Kingdom, napping has gained popularity in recent years, with many individuals recognising its value in improving productivity and reducing stress. According to a study conducted, 80% of millennials admitted to taking naps at work and reported they felt more alert and focused afterwards. A study by the University of London has found that the brains of people who nap often were 5 cubic centimetres larger. This is the equivalent to delaying ageing in the brain by around three to six years! So why do so many people still view napping as a sign of laziness or unproductivity? One reason could be the cultural emphasis on constant productivity and overworking. Many individuals feel guilty about taking a break during the workday, even if it means they will be more productive and in a better mood afterwards. Naps are great for our wellbeing Naps are great for our mental wellbeing, they also improve our mood, and physical health. They boost energy, speed up decision-making processes, and lessen daytime fatigue. They ease tension and aid in mood regulation, lowering anxiety and depressive symptoms while promoting relaxation. They improve abilities to solve problems, work efficiently, innovatively, and a multitude of other cognitive functions. At Rest Space, we empathise with those who have come to realise that pushing through the day is not the path to success. The problem is that 88% of people have told us they have nowhere to rest at work. Rest is not just a personal necessity but a fundamental component of success. Creating a space to rest at work A private and comfortable environment is needed for individuals to take a nap or engage in mindfulness practises during the workday. By offering a physical space for rest and rejuvenation, Rest Space is working to combat the mental barriers that prevent people from prioritising their health and well-being. Creating a culture of rest at work Alongside this, we help organisations embrace a new paradigm—one that prioritises well-being and nurtures productivity through our engagement program. Providing resources and guidance on the importance of sleep and rest. Helping educate individuals on the benefits of napping and helping them prioritise rest in their daily routines, Rest Space is working to create a culture that values not only productivity but also self-care and mental health. So the next time you find yourself feeling tired and unproductive, don't hesitate to take a nap in a rest space. Your body and mind will thank you for it. And if you want your teams to have an extra tool to take care of their wellbeing, get in touch.
- The Well-being Chronicles: Integrating Well-being into the Way We Work
In today's fast-paced and demanding work environments, the importance of employee well-being cannot be overstated. Recognising this, companies are increasingly understanding that well-being should be an integral part of their organisational culture and performance. In our recent event on supporting the well-being pillars - Mental, physical, social, and financial—our guest speakers, Caitlin Rozario, co-founder of Interlude, and Will Turner, CEO and co-founder of GOJOE, shed light on the significance of integrating well-being into the way we work. They shared their observations, experiences, and insights, revealing the transformative power of prioritising well-being for both individuals and organisations. The Tangled Web of Well-Being: Caitlin and Will delved into the challenges faced by many companies when attempting to promote well-being initiatives. They noted that despite investing in various programmes, organisations often struggle with low engagement and participation. It became clear that scattered resources and poor communication played a significant role in hindering the success of these initiatives. Companies introduced some great initiatives, but employees didn’t know about them or weren’t in a position to make the most of them. “I worked at another company where we had a golden time. It was like 10% of your time should be used doing personal upskilling, but then it was an agency and there was so much work and they just kept bringing more clients in, that everyone was like, "Golden time”. And it became a net negative because everyone was like, "Oh, we have a golden time”.” ..Caitlin Rozario One of the crucial points Caitlin and Will stressed was the need for companies to recognise the interconnected nature of well-being and overall performance. Well-being should not be seen as a separate entity but rather as an integral part of employees' work lives. By neglecting well-being, organisations risk undermining productivity, motivation, and employee satisfaction. A Tale of Two Approaches: Let me share a short story about two contrasting organisations to highlight the impact of their well-being practices. Company X, lacking a holistic approach, offered a few well-being programmes scattered across different departments, these inititives didn't have a dedicated lead. While the intention was noble, employees found it challenging to navigate and engage with these resources due to poor communication. Feedback about the inititives wasn't actioned because there was no capacity to improve them. As a result less than 5% of the organisation accesses the offering. In contrast, Company Y took a different path. They recognised the need for easy access to well-being resources, and created a dedicated well-being team and portal, bringing leadership on board to be the advocates and early adopters. The portal became the heart of the organisation's well-being activity. Maintained by dedicated full time wellbeing leads, supported by leadership and internal comms. They were able to support the different business needs and help evolve the offering to one that really made a difference to peoples lives. The result? Higher engagement, happier people, and a more positive work culture! How can you unlock the secrets to successfully integrating well-being into your workplace culture? “Everyone knows you're in a bit of a rut, and then you go to the gym, for a run, or do whatever you want to do for a week or two, you suddenly feel great, it's just how do you sustain it?” ...Will Turner Leadership support and role modeling Firstly, cultivate leadership support. Leaders must champion well-being initiatives and emphasise their importance to create a culture that prioritises employee well-being from top to bottom. Communication is vital Secondly, remember, communication is key. Transparent and effective communication is vital for engaging employees in well-being activities. Clear messaging, regular updates, and encouraging participation can foster a sense of connection and motivation. Easy to access In addition, establishing an easy to access well-being portal, like Company B, can streamline access to resources, making it easier for employees to explore and engage with well-being programmes. Taking away the difficulty of discovery and access. Consider a seasonal approach Lastly, consider a seasonal approach. Recognise that your employees go through different experiences based on the seasons and business cycles. At the end and beginning of the year, things are spinning up, and people are overwhelmed with the amount of work going on. Caitlyn and Will highlighted how having flexible offerings that cater to seasonal and business cycles can help employees tap into what they need when they need it. What types of things might you include in your well-being offering? Now you have some ideas on how to make your well-being offering successful. What might be part of your offering? Therapy Therapy is one of the best things a company can offer for employees to use how and when they want to. ‘Therapy is one of the best things a company can offer - it can have such a positive impact’ Breaks Encourage employees to take regular breaks to support their mental and physical well-being. Through interlude, Caitlyn has seen how breaks transform team connection and wellbeing. Breaks suited to your mood and what you might need that day are powerful. This could be workouts, yoga, stretching, mindfulness, meditation, breath work, affirmations, writing, art, and cooking. Social physical challenges Team based activity challenges can motivate employees to be more active. Through GOJOE, Will has seen people improve their consistency and be able to push themselves more than compared to similar activities on their own. The social element is very fundamental to who we are as humans. Calm spaces Spaces that help employees reduce stress, recharge and reflect are needed in the working environment. Spaces that offer privacy within the workplace that are designed for relaxation and rejuvenation where employees can retreat and recharge. This will be welcomed by all employees but can transform the day for neurodiverse employees or anyone experiencing increased pressures at work or at home. Promote a culture of well-being that values mental health by integrating rest sessions. The narrative shared by Caitlin and Will underscores the transformative power of integrating well-being into the way we work. Take care of your employees well-being, and they will take care of your company. By recognising the impact of well-being on employee performance and creating an environment that supports holistic well-being, organisations empower their employees to bring their best to work. Effective communication strategies and easy-to-access resources are needed for employees to make the most of what's on offer. We should all be working towards a happier, healthier workforce.
- How to Measure Workplace Wellbeing and Use Data for Positive Change
‘What is measured gets done!’ - Peter Drucker Workplace well-being has become an increasingly important aspect of creating a healthy and productive work environment. At our recent meet-up one audience member, Alex, shared their experience that improving employees' well-being can also improve their performance. Keep reading to see what we discussed on how to measure workplace wellbeing for positive change! "Helping people improve their well-being helps them perform better. Helping improve their performance improves their well-being" A growing body of research suggests that employee well-being is linked to productivity, engagement, and job satisfaction.This is vital to helping companies better understand the needs of their workforce and design interventions that support their well-being. We welcomed Ivor Colson co-founder of OMNIFIA, of Omifia and Dr Sridevi Kalidindi clinical psychiatrist and founder of Klip at our Measuring Workplace Well-being event. Both speakers shared a common belief that 'what gets tracked gets cracked,' implying that by measuring and monitoring workplace well-being, organisations are better equipped to take action and improve the health and productivity of their workforce. Ivor expressed that it would be great to shift well-being from being the individual's responsibility and ambition to one shared with organisation and supported by policy. It’s in everyone's interest to have healthier and happier people. "Work is intertwined with well-being." - Ivor Colson Why is it important to measure workplace wellbeing? Measuring workplace well-being is important for several reasons: It helps organisations understand the needs of their workforce: By measuring employee well-being, organisations can identify areas where their employees may be struggling and design interventions that can support them. If an employee is experiencing high levels of stress at work, the organisation can implement interventions to help them. It can improve productivity: Research shows that when employees are happy and healthy, they are more productive. Measuring employee well-being can help organisations identify areas where they can support their employees and improve their productivity. It can improve employee retention: When employees feel valued and supported, they are more likely to stay with an organisation. By measuring employee well-being and designing interventions to support their well-being, organisations can improve employee retention. Wellbeing is cited as a top priority for Gen Z employees, with 83 per cent saying it’s on a par with salary. What type of measures can you collect? There are several measures that organisations can collect to assess employee well-being. Measures that most of us get can start with today include Absenteeism: How often employees are absent from work due to illness or other reasons. Turnover: The rate at which employees leave the organisation. Presenteeism: The extent to which employees are present at work but not fully productive. Job satisfaction: How satisfied employees are with their job and the organisation. Measures that will take more time to implement and understand are Ivor mentioned that using surveys to measure workplace well-being has its challenges, one being that it only captures that one moment in time. A survey response in the morning could differ drastically to how they would answer in the afternoon. The key risk to surveys are that those who are most disengaged are often the ones who do not respond, leading to an unreliable picture. Burnout is a complex phenomenon that can be difficult to measure and diagnose, as it involves a combination of emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and reduced personal accomplishment. Many of the measures used to assess burnout rely on self-reported data, which may not always be reliable or accurate. Work-life balance is influenced by a range of factors, including workload, job demands, and personal circumstances. It can be difficult to get an accurate picture of an individual's work-life balance through surveys or other quantitative measures alone, as individuals may be reluctant to share personal information or may not be aware of their own work-life balance. Social connectedness involves subjective experiences such as feelings of belonging, social support, and social integration. It can be difficult to get an accurate and reliable picture of an individual's social connectedness through surveys or other quantitative measures alone, as individuals may not be aware of their own social connectedness or may not be willing to share personal information. Physical health also involves collecting physical health data that requires specialised equipment or expertise to collect and understand. It is often met with hesitation from the individual to volunteer this data to their organisations. Tips on how to use these measures for positive change and how to avoid negative actions It's important for organisations to use employee well-being measures in a positive way that benefits their employees and the organisation as a whole. Here are some tips on how to do this: Use data analysis for improvement: Analysing employee well-being data can identify areas of struggle and support interventions. Focus on finding the root cause rather than patching symptoms. Involve employees in the process: It's important to involve employees in the design and implementation of well-being interventions. This can help to ensure that the interventions are effective and well-received. Communicate the purpose of the data: It's important to communicate to employees why the organisation is collecting well-being data and how it will be used. This can help to build trust and encourage employees to be honest in their responses. Protect employee privacy: It's important to ensure that employee data is anonymised and protected to avoid negative actions such as discrimination or retaliation. Avoid one size fits all: Keep in mind that not all employees will respond to the same interventions. Use the data to identify which interventions would be most effective given context. People's experiences that contributed to the data pool will all be different. Use the data to create a positive work environment: By using employee well-being data to design interventions that support their well-being, organisations can create a positive work environment that benefits both employees and the organisation. Track progress: Continue to collect data and track progress over time. Whatever you measure it is the trend of the data that matters more than the actual numbers. Are you improving? Measuring employee well-being is an important step towards creating a healthy and productive work environment. By collecting and using well-being data in a positive way, organisations can support their employees and improve their productivity, engagement, and job satisfaction. What is the overall goal? "Wouldn’t it be great if work was a place you came to get healthier?" - Dr Sridevi Kalidindi Most importantly, is the data there to help us achieve our goals? What are your organisation's goals? How are you getting there? As summed up by Dr. Sridevi Kalidindi, - We want to achieve a point where, for staff, organisations and society, we get to a point where the evidence and practice are good enough so we are protecting our people and keeping them well. Join us at our next event and explore how you can improve workplace well-being in your organisation!
- Thankful and Thriving: The Health Benefits of Practicing Gratitude
Gratitude is like a superpower for your mental health, and everyone has access to it. Practicing gratitude is a simple yet powerful tool to improve overall well-being and all it involves is focusing on the positive aspects of life and celebrating every big and small accomplishment. Here are some of the benefits of practicing gratitude and how it can positively impact your mental health. Improved Mood According to research, a single thought of gratitude can produce an immediate 10% increase in happiness and 35% decrease in depressive symptoms. By focusing on the good in your life, you will boost your mood and increase positive emotions which can improve our overall outlook and increase feelings of contentment. Reduced Stress When you focus on the things you appreciate in life, it naturally shifts your attention away from troubling thoughts and problems, creating a calm state of mind. A study found that feeling gratitude can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol which can help you handle overall stress in a more positive way and improve your physical health. Better Relationships Practicing gratitude can also improve your relationships with others. When we express gratitude towards others, it can deepen and strengthen your relationships. By focusing on the positive qualities and expressing gratitude towards others, you can deepen your connection and create more meaningful relations with people around you. Increased Resilience Research from a study found that participants who showed gratitude were more resilient to emotional setbacks. Increasing your sense of positivity and optimism can help you better cope and ‘bounce back’ from difficult situations. Improved Sleep All of the above benefits come together to promote quality sleep, and we all know how important sleep is for our daily lives. With less stress and a better mood, you can help yourself receive a better night’s rest and keep up the everyday cycle of feeling mentally healthy. So, how do you start practicing gratitude? Start by taking a moment to appreciate the things you like to do in your free time. Think about the people around you that support and value you and consider the positive impact they have had on your life. Recognize your hard work, dedication, and successes. Sometimes, it’s the simple pleasures that bring you the most joy like reading a good book, watching the sunset, or a warm cup of coffee. Whatever it is that brings you joy and a sense of appreciation for the life you're living, be sure to prioritize it as often as you need to. By creating a positive emotional environment for yourself, you can give your mental and overall health the best chance of feeling good. So take a few moments each day to express gratitude. Celebrate the small things. It’s worth it. Want to learn more ways to improve your well-being? Read more of our blogs here.
- CAN YOU EAT YOUR WAY TO A BETTER MOOD?
Have you ever resorted to sugary foods when feeling down, anxious or tired? Based on previous research, we've found that eating sugary foods is the alternative that most people resort to when taking a nap is not a possibility. But, why is it that some foods make us feel much better instantly while some don't? The reason for this is that foods have molecules that affect our brain and therefore affect how we feel. It is important to identify what these chemicals cause and in what foods they can be found so we can smartly “eat our way to a better mood” when needed. I’ll start by explaining one of the most relevant food molecules: serotonin. This chemical is mostly responsible for a person’s mood and happiness levels. It is no coincidence that when we eat chocolate we tend to feel happy given that one of the foods that makes our brain release serotonin is chocolate. So next time you are feeling down or unmotivated, try eating a piece of chocolate, preferably dark as its lower in processed sugars, and see if it lifts your mood up. Moderation is key, avoid having too much chocolate because it might lead to feelings of guilt or a stomach ache. Very similar to serotonin, dopamine also plays a key role in making us ‘feel good’. Many fruits and vegetables make the brain release dopamine, bananas being one of them. According to research conducted by the University of Wollongong Australia, bananas not only make you happy because of their high levels of tryptophan, but they also help with concentration and brain function during exam or stressful times. Lastly, Coffee. Caffeine also stimulates the release of dopamine and serves as an energy booster. However, just like too much chocolate, too much caffeine can also have negative effects such as anxiety and stress so try cutting down caffeine intake after lunch when possible. Here is is a quick- recipe for a smoothie that combines these 3 ingredients to lift up your mood and satisfy your sweet tooth without unnecessary unrefined sugars: Ingredients ½ cup cold brewed coffee 8 ounces sliced frozen bananas 1 ½ cup milk of choice 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder Instructions Place all ingredients in a blender Process until smooth and creamy Want to learn more ways to improve your wellbeing? Read more of our blogs here.