7 Often Unnoticed Factors In Your Workplace Influencing Your Personal Wellbeing
Michele Chevalley Hedge
Wellbeing Speaker & International Author Nutritional Medicine Practitioner & Positive Psychology who loves health without hassle & a bit of wine & chocolate. | Accredited online on demand CPD courses & CPD Speaker.
Ever experienced those workdays that seem to drag on forever? Well, hold onto your cup because I've got some piping hot tea for you on 7 workplace culprits that might be messing with your mojo and overall wellbeing.
We're talking about everything from the ergonomics of your chair and the never-ending tasks on your desk to your boss's management style and the office's take on wellbeing.
Once you're in the know, you can start making those small changes that will turn your work life around. So, without further ado, let's dive right in, shall we?
Physical Environment
Let's discuss your workspace - where you sit and how you sit - in the battle against daily tasks. The office layout, furniture design, and even the air quality impact your mission to stay productive. So, let's explore common workplace factors that influence wellbeing.
Ergonomics
Want to create a workspace that boosts efficiency and minimises aches and pains? Ergonomics is the secret sauce! But beware, because poor furniture and equipment can unleash a whole army of physical issues like strain, fatigue, and even a dreaded hunch in your neck.
So, what's the game plan? First, invest some time and thought into setting up your workspace. Adjust seating and equipment to properly support your body's needs. And if you can't pull off the ideal setup on your own, talk to someone in HR about bringing in a workplace ergonomics specialist. Trust me, it's a game-changer!
Noise Levels
Noise can wreak havoc on your wellbeing, causing major disruptions. We're not just talking about a harmless office prank gone wrong (let's skip the gory details, shall we?).
Excessive noise levels in the workplace have been scientifically linked to stress, fatigue, and even reduced cognitive performance (yes, science has the answers!). That's why it's crucial to explore ways to tame the volume monster. Think sound-absorbing walls, dividers, and maybe even noise-cancelling headphones to escape the cacophony. Turn that noisy nightmare into a harmonious workplace haven.
Lighting
Did you know that lighting quality can work wonders for your wellbeing at work? Its effects are truly amazing! Studies show that natural light can boost productivity and job satisfaction. Here's a pro tip: get some sunshine at your workstation or switch to a lighter bulb for an afternoon pick-me-up. Let the light work its magic and enjoy the positive vibes.
If that doesn't work for your office, take a leisurely walk or make calls outside twice a day. Fresh air and sunshine can do wonders for your mood and productivity.
Workload
Now that we've conquered the physical realm, let's address a crucial aspect of workplace wellbeing – workload. It's not just about the environment; it's also about the tasks at hand.
Excessive workload can be draining physically and mentally, leading to decreased job satisfaction and increased stress levels. Conversely, too little work can be equally detrimental, crushing motivation and enthusiasm. The key is to find the right balance – enough work to stay engaged and challenged, but not so much that it leads to burnout.
If your workload is overwhelming or insufficient, speak up and share your concerns with your boss. Your manager can't make changes if they don't know about the issue. Don't silently quit and lose your passion; take action instead.
Stress
Stress is the elusive yet powerful force that haunts the workplace. It's the sneaky side effect of never-ending workloads and merciless deadlines, a stealthy troublemaker we often underestimate.
The Impact of Stress
Stress's impact on personal wellbeing is a crucial issue, especially for employees. In fact, it's something I see all the time in the leadership groups and organisations I work with.
Stress affects our minds, bodies, and cortisol levels, disrupting hormones like progesterone and melatonin, and causing havoc in our lives. Chronic stress can even lead to anxiety and depression, blurring judgment, hindering concentration, and fueling frustration and anger.
Moreover, stress affects our moods, behaviours, relationships with colleagues, and even team dynamics.
But stress doesn't stop at mental and emotional effects; it also harms our physical wellbeing. It disrupts sleep, causes headaches, and increases the risk of chronic conditions like hypertension and heart disease.
Stress even weakens the immune system, making us more susceptible to illnesses and prolonging recovery times.
This kind of stress can really impact productivity, absentee rates, and employee turnover. So, understanding and addressing stress is key to creating a healthier, happier, and more productive workplace.
Remember, this isn't just "in your head." Stress is real and requires real solutions.
Now that you understand the issue, ready for some stress hacks?
Managing Stress
Stress, that workplace troublemaker isn't always your enemy. But learning to master stress means building self-awareness and acting proactively.
Start by identifying the stressors such as heavy workloads, deadlines, and challenging relations with coworkers. Then, tackle them head-on using stress-busting tools and techniques such as yoga, meditation, journaling, and breathing exercises.
I share some stress busting tips here .
And don't forget that what you eat and how you sleep can impact stress in a big way, too!
If these techniques aren't cutting it, take the next step and ask HR about getting help from a mental health professional.
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Workplace Relationships
Let's not forget the powerful impact relationships can have on our work wellbeing. We don't live in a vacuum; instead, we work alongside colleagues who can become friends and confidantes. In fact, Dr. Fiona Kerr , a cognitive scientist, emphasises the importance of workplace friendships.
Colleague relationships can positively or negatively affect our wellbeing. Feeling excluded can lower motivation and increase stress and office drama is bad for your wellbeing and the business.
Conversely, supportive colleagues can energise us and make us feel we belong. So, don't ignore those workplace relationships - they're a big part of job satisfaction.
Now, the serious part. Unfortunately, discrimination, bullying, and violence still exist in the workplace. Experiencing exclusion or belittlement due to racism, sexism, or ageism is a daily reality for some. In such cases, it's important to take action and seek support from HR or a trusted manager. Don't let toxic behaviours jeopardise your work wellbeing!
Leadership Styles
Leaders hold immense power in shaping workplace wellbeing. Their leadership styles can either lift us up or bring us down. Some bosses are like helicopters, constantly hovering and micromanaging every little detail, while others take a hands-off approach, leaving you to figure things out on your own. Both situations can be incredibly frustrating.
For optimal workplace wellbeing, employers need to find the right balance between supervision and autonomy. Imagine leaders who are not only supportive and understanding, but also empower their team members to contribute their best? In that kind of environment, employees feel truly heard and valued, and they thrive like never before.
If your experience doesn't sound like this, it's time to have an honest conversation with your management.
Job Security
Let's discuss one of the scariest factors that affect your personal wellbeing - job security.
Did you know this also includes workplace injury, retirement, and retrenchment? All of which can greatly impact your wellbeing. Uncertainty can cause stress and sleeplessness , anxiety and more.
Thankfully, there are ways to tackle this issue head-on. Understand the laws protecting employee rights and openly communicate concerns with your employer. If job security seems uncertain, proactively explore alternatives such as updating your resume, networking, or considering other career options.
Remember, you're in charge of your own wellbeing.
The Secret To Workplace Health & Happiness
Here's the secret to workplace health and happiness and you may not know - wellbeing initiatives! A good wellbeing program can be a game-changer for employees AND employers.
Such programs include things like flexible working hours, gym memberships, mental health days, and nutritional training. And perks like these can make a huge difference in workplace performance and morale.
When employees feel valued and supported with incentives like these, it's a big boost to morale and confidence. Employees are less stressed, more satisfied and primed to perform at their best.
From the employer's standpoint, investing in the wellbeing of employees is just smart business.
Happier, healthier workers mean more engagement and higher productivity. On top of that, absenteeism and turnover are reduced. Your company will be known as a top-tier employer.
It's more than just an expense - it's an investment in a dedicated, content, and high-performing workforce. Employers should wholeheartedly embrace these wellbeing initiatives as if they hold the key to unlocking a realm of productivity, and fulfilment in the workplace (because they kind of do!).
If your company hasn't gotten this message yet, here's what you can do.
What To Do If Your Employer Doesn't Offer Workplace Wellbeing Programs
Don't wait for your employer to provide the perfect workplace wellbeing programs. Spark a conversation with your boss to encourage initiatives to boost employee health, wellbeing, morale, and productivity.
My Science of Workplace Wellbeing CPD Programs were created specifically for this.
These on-demand programs concisely edu-tain you about :
Each program even awards CPD/CE points upon completion.
Consider suggesting workshops to improve employee wellbeing and performance or take the initiative and enroll yourself. It's a cost-effective investment that pays off for everyone.
Get all the details about the Science of Workplace Wellbeing CPD Programs here.
How Does Your Workplace Affect Your Personal Wellbeing?
We've covered 7 ways your workplace can be impacting your wellbeing :
By understanding these crucial points, you can proactively take charge of your wellbeing and invest in it. Whether it's taking action to encourage better workplace policies or investing in yourself through our Workplace Wellbeing Programs , you're in charge.
Now, it's time to make your mark!
Embrace your personal wellbeing and let your employer know that you prioritise health and happiness in the workplace.