Well, you may have realised by now that some places invoke a more positive and encouraging vibe than others. This is why a healthy work environment is imperative to boost employees’ motivation and happiness.
A healthy work environment also increases productivity and organisational health.
In order to learn how to create this wonderful work environment, let us look at the top five aspects of a healthy environment.
1. Positive physical environment
It is much more enjoyable and less stressful to go to a work in an environment that is bursting with positivity.
A positive work environment is not only vital for our physical, mental and emotional well-being, it is also important for our level of productivity.
This is because the better a person feels at work, the higher their chances of functioning at an optimum level and being dedicated to the job.
Ways to create this:
Have a clean and comfortable work environment with sufficient sunlight and comfortable furniture.
Place some live plants in the office as scientific studies show that humans have an innate need to be close to nature, which scientists refer to as “biophilia”.
2. Occupational health and safety measures
A healthy workplace also takes into consideration the health and safety of its employees. This will prevent any concern and preoccupation on safety while at the office.
Ways to create this:
Ensure electric cables are taped down or covered and fix any cracks in walls or ceilings. Ensure there is a sufficient number of windows and fire extinguishers on hand.
3. Healthy lifestyle activities
Employees are the strength of every organisation. When the well-being of employees is emphasised, there will likely be an increase in productivity and a reduction in the number of absenteeism due to sick leave.
Ways to create this:
Encourage employees to bring food from home and provide a fridge as well as a microwave. Healthy lunches and snacks can be bought for team meetings.
Promote wellness and fitness among employees by having a gym at the office to encourage them to workout before work, after work or even during breaks.
Encourage employees to take the stairs and organise fun runs and marathons to inspire them to be healthier.
4. Supportive and empathetic colleagues
Nurturing values of empathy and supportiveness towards one another at the office shows that you not only care about the progress of the business, but the well-being of your employees and colleagues as well.
A supportive and caring workplace culture is the substance of a healthier work environment.
Ways to create this:
Cultivate meaningful friendships at work, celebrate birthdays, organise departmental potlucks and team-building activities besides showing concern and compassion towards each other. Practise generosity, appreciation, sincerity and validation.
5. Healthy corporate culture
Every company has its own corporate culture that regulates its value. This usually creates a customary practice to which employees generally adhere.
As a healthier corporate culture is practised, the entire work environment will be more positive and happier thus creating a much more energetic and optimistic atmosphere.
A healthy corporate culture can also help employees stay productive and be inspired to produce better work quality.
Ways to create this:
Build a purpose-driven organisation that also focusses on organisational health and the participation of the entire team towards this purpose.
Have a weekly exercise programme such as a Zumba session as a whole team, practise forgiving each other for past mistakes and discuss the lessons behind it instead of finger-pointing.
Without a doubt, a healthy work environment fosters employee satisfaction and better productivity. It’s a win-win situation for both employers and employees and should be cultivated in every work place.
This article was written in collaboration with Naluri and first appeared in hellodoktor.com. It was reviewed by Dr Duyen Le. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.