The holiday season is here and the new year is just around the corner! Because this is such a busy time of the year, it’s important to keep wellness at work in mind. During the holidays many companies host parties to reward employees and celebrate the successes of the year. This can be a great time to show your employees how much you value them.
But it can also be a time when many less healthy choices are made. Consider limiting alcohol consumption at your holiday parties by offering non-alcoholic alternatives and providing a predetermined number of drink tickets. Challenge your employees to bring healthier versions of their favorite foods or work with catering vendors to provide healthier foods. Some companies have a tradition of gift exchanges at holiday parties. Encourage your employees to exchange gifts related to wellness, like local gym passes, gift certificates to a farmer’s market, or a subscription to a wellness magazine, app, or website.
After the holiday season passes, many people like to make resolutions for the new year. Did you know that the top new year’s resolution in 2015 was to stay fit and healthy1? The start of a new year is a great time to show your employees how much you value their health and wellbeing! Listen to what your employees want in a wellness program by surveying your employee population. Do you have employees that are dedicated to exercising in the new year? If possible, consider providing employees the ability to flex their work schedule so they can exercise when it is convenient for them. Do you have an on-site gym or can you provide your employees better access to a local gym? Make it easy for your employees! Are some of your employees committed to eating healthier in the new year? Provide fresh fruits at work and ensure your policies related to ordering healthier foods are enforced. There are several ways you can support your employees in their wellness efforts in the new year. To find more resources check out our curated Healthy Workplaces Toolbox at www.mawow.org/resources.
1http://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/news/2015/2015s-top-new-years-resolution-fitness.html