We have been living in a different world. The last year has, by all accounts, been blemished by the monumental and far reaching impacts of COVID-19. But what the global pandemic has also provided is the opportunity for so many to stop and take stock of their lives. So, it’s no surprise that general health and wellness have risen up the agenda. People want to start afresh, leading healthier, happier lives in the process and all businesses, big and small, need to take stock. Unlike the years that have preceded it, I expect this year we’ll witness the revolution of corporate wellness and we all need to be ready to seize the opportunity. Here are the 3 key considerations you should be aware of when planning your organisation’s health and wellbeing programmes this year.
1. Understand the shifting mindset of your employees
Even before the pandemic, notions of wellness and holistic health were accelerating in popularity as society drove a cultural shift in the pursuit of healthier, fuller lives. 57% of people rated health and wellbeing as important to their daily lives before the pandemic. COVID-19, 2 national lockdowns and isolation have only fuelled that fire however, highlighting imbalances in our lives and the very real fight against isolation and mental anguish. It’s hardly surprising therefore that 69% of people now place importance on daily health and wellbeing.
2. Think bigger picture
Some of the world’s most successful businesses have long recognised the importance of healthy employment and pivoted their practices and processes to support the needs of their employees. Day trips, unlimited holidays, flexi-hours, work perks, Friday socials and team outings are common go-to’s. Whilst the current prevalence of home working practices may curtail some of the options available to employers, it is unlikely to change employee expectations. Instead, us as employers need to think broadly and should balance short term resolve with long term potential. Mindfulness activities, remote health initiatives and virtual fun can fill the void in the interim, but getting something more substantial in the calendar for our employees to group towards and focus on will be a must in 2021. Meaningful experiences and in-person activities are what our employees are craving. Activities that hybridize a focus on health, connectivity and fun will be sure-fire winners.
3. Be prepared to invest
Your people are your assets and now is the time to invest in them. As we map our organisations’ paths out of the Coronavirus pandemic, don’t lose sight of the importance your employees will play in getting you on that path. Whilst budgets top to bottom will be scrutinised, remember that investment in a healthy and well workforce yields a higher output, fosters loyalty and tangibly provides a competitive edge.
At Spartan & Tough Mudder, we’re seeing the benefits of corporate wellness experiences firsthand. We’ve always known and embodied the natural connectivity between teamwork and overcoming obstacles, but it’s been an organic development too. Our events have evolved to meet the novel and nourishing demands placed upon businesses to inspire employee engagement and promote active health. Ultimately for us, it’s about making healthier workplaces by encouraging fitness, developing interpersonal relationships, promoting inclusivity, and inspiring confidence. 2021 presents the next frontier of corporate wellness, and we’re just scratching the surface.
