Wellbeing, Connection, and Organizational Success

In today’s fast-paced world, where the boundaries between work and personal life often blur, the importance of prioritizing mental wellbeing cannot be overstated. The demands of modern work environments have led to an alarming rise in burnout, with nearly 77% of employees reporting feelings of burnout at their current job, according to a 2023 Gallup survey. This is not merely a personal challenge but a widespread issue with profound implications for both individuals and organizations.

Burnout is more than just an emotional state; it has tangible consequences for businesses. Chronic workplace stress is now responsible for up to $190 billion in annual healthcare costs, as reported by the Harvard Business Review in 2022. Moreover, the World Health Organization has highlighted that burnout leads to a 13% decrease in productivity, resulting in significant losses for both employees and companies. These figures underscore the critical need for organizations to address mental health proactively.

At the heart of this challenge lies a fundamental truth: when employees’ mental health is neglected, their ability to connect—with their work, their colleagues, and even themselves—suffers. Connection is a key driver of engagement and productivity in the workplace. Brené Brown eloquently captured this idea, stating, “Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” For organizations, fostering this connection is not just about improving the bottom line; it is about creating environments where individuals feel safe, supported, and valued.

Prioritizing mental wellbeing is not only about meeting employees' basic needs; it is about creating a culture where people can thrive. This involves providing spaces where employees feel safe to express themselves, seek help, and recharge when necessary. Organizations that invest in their people’s mental and emotional health are, in turn, investing in their own success. When employees feel whole and supported, they bring their best selves to their work, contributing to a more connected and cohesive team.

As we consider the future of work, it is clear that organizations must embrace a holistic approach to employee wellbeing. This means integrating practices that reduce stress, promote mindfulness, and prevent burnout into the corporate culture. By doing so, companies can cultivate environments where employees are not just surviving but thriving.

For those interested in taking actionable steps toward improving workplace wellbeing, I offer corporate wellbeing programs designed to support employees in showing up fully—present, energized, and supported from within. These programs are grounded in cutting-edge research on mindfulness, mindset, and burnout prevention, tailored to meet the unique needs of each organization.

In addition to these offerings, I invite you to explore NapNirvana, a 6-week online group program dedicated to stress reduction and genuine support. The program is currently enrolling, and begins September 17th. The group forma provides a unique opportunity to join a space focused on mental and emotional wellbeing, while gaining real tools and practices to support your day-to-day wellbeing and success.

Together, let’s create a ripple effect that extends far beyond ourselves, fostering a culture of connection and care in every workplace.

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Heather Snow Sheldon is Founder, The Whole Human.

She is a Corporate Wellbeing Consultant, certified Life & Somatic Coach and Speaker on the intersection of personal growth, professional fulfillment, and mental well-being.

Heather Smith is a dynamic leader in corporate wellbeing, life coaching, and social impact, with over 15 years of experience driving positive change across various sectors. As the founder and CEO of The Whole Human, Heather leverages her extensive background in running nonprofits, being a top high-achieving sales executive supporting hundreds of companies and millions of employees globally in their engagement initiatives and managing global social impact programs to deliver transformative wellbeing solutions that resonate with both individuals and organizations.

Heather’s expertise lies in her ability to blend strategic insight with a deep understanding of human behavior, enabling her to design and implement programs that foster meaningful connection, reduce stress, and enhance overall productivity. Her work has impacted tens of thousands of employees globally, creating environments where people feel empowered to show up as their best selves, both personally and professionally.

A seasoned consultant, Heather has advised start-ups on partnership development and growth strategies, helping them to scale their impact while maintaining a strong focus on employee wellbeing. Her approach is rooted in the latest research on mindfulness, mindset, and burnout prevention, ensuring that her clients receive practical, evidence-based tools that drive sustainable change.

Heather is also the host of The Whole Human Podcast, (coming Winter 2024) where she explores the intersection of personal growth, professional fulfillment, and mental well-being. Through engaging conversations with leaders in both spirituality and business, she provides listeners with insights and strategies to cultivate wholeness in all areas of life.

Connect with Heather: [email protected]