Shaping Healthy Workplaces – Entrpreneurs Drive Workplace Well-being

Learn from top entrepreneurs how to integrate well-being into your business strategy, enhancing employee satisfaction and performance. 

The conversation around workplace well-being is strongly focused on tangible perks: free lunches, nap pods, and in-office gyms. While these benefits are definitely appealing, it might be prudent to consider a deeper truth that emerged from the Hawthorne Experiments. This series of groundbreaking experiments were conducted in the 1920s and 30s at the Hawthorne Works factory in Illinois, Chicago.

These studies, initially designed to explore the impact of lighting on worker productivity, revealed a surprising twist. Regardless of whether the lighting increased or decreased, productivity went up. The key takeaway wasn’t about the lighting itself, but rather the psychological effect of being observed and having their well-being considered by management.

This discovery, now known as the Hawthorne effect, highlights a crucial aspect of workplace well-being: employees respond positively to the knowledge that management cares. It’s not just about the specific initiatives, but the perception of being valued that fuels motivation and engagement.

This blog delves into this concept, exploring how entrepreneurs can cultivate a thriving work environment that prioritises not just physical comfort, but also the mental and emotional well-being of their employees. We’ll explore strategies that go beyond beanbags and ping pong tables, fostering a culture where employees feel genuinely supported and valued.

By prioritising well-being, entrepreneurs cultivate a powerful force for innovation and success.

The importance of well-being in the workplace

While a healthy workplace offers numerous advantages, it’s no longer a ‘nice-to-have’. It’s a fundamental requirement for businesses, especially those seeking long-term success. A growing body of research consistently demonstrates a clear link between both physical and mental health and a company’s overall performance.

Prioritising employee well-being is a win-win. Studies consistently show that healthier employees are demonstrably more productive, missing fewer workdays. For example, research by Medibank Private found a stark difference: the most unhealthy workers logged only 49 effective hours per month compared to a staggering 143 for the healthiest. 

Mental health is equally crucial. According to Beyond Blue, mental health issues cost Australian workplaces an estimated AUD 17.9 billion per year due to absenteeism, reduced productivity, and compensation claims.

These figures highlight the importance of prioritising employee well-being – not just for ethical reasons, but also for the bottom line.

The well-being equation

Solid evidence links employee well-being, including both physical and mental health, to superior business performance. Here’s how:

Physical health and productivity

Research consistently shows a clear correlation.  For example, Safe Work Australia found that healthy employees miss far fewer workdays – averaging 5.2 sick days per year compared to 9.3 for those in poor health.

Mental health matters

The World Health Organisation defines health not merely as the absence of disease but as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Mental health issues, which are a significant concern impacting millions of Australians each year, can lead to decreased employee engagement, higher turnover rates, and increased absenteeism within a company.

Entrepreneurs: Champions of well-being 

Entrepreneurs hold a unique position to influence both employee well-being and business success. Investing in health and wellness programs can significantly enhance team well-being and productivity. 

Programs that pay off

Companies implementing comprehensive health and wellness programs often see positive returns. Take Canva, for instance, whose holistic wellness programme incorporates on-site yoga, mental health resources and flexible work arrangements, fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Leadership by example

Entrepreneurs who prioritise their own health and actively promote wellness initiatives inspire employees to adopt similar habits. This leadership style not only improves the company’s overall health profile but also boosts morale and loyalty.

Why mental health matters 

Investing in employee well-being isn’t simply a feel-good initiative; it’s a strategic investment that boosts profits and organisational health. A focus on well-being translates directly to a healthier bottom line. 

Empowering well-being: Entrepreneurial strategies

Forget relying solely on perks like ping-pong tables and nap pods. True workplace well-being requires a strategic approach. Here’s how entrepreneurs can cultivate a thriving environment that prioritises employee health and happiness:

Lead the change

The influence of an entrepreneur’s health habits on their team is undeniable. Prioritising their personal well-being sets the tone for a healthy team. As Vishen Lakhiani, a company culture thought leader, emphasises, “Health magnifies wealth.”

Cultivate a ‘Well work-life’

Promote work-life balance and well-being by offering flexible work arrangements, subsidising gym memberships, and hosting wellness programs.

Destigmatise mental health

Encourage mental health days and open conversations about well-being. Sherry Walling of Zenfounder suggests the same: “Education and conversation around mental health need to happen in every place where entrepreneurs are gathering.”

Embrace innovative wellness

Offer innovative wellness options to keep your team engaged. Provide ergonomic solutions like standing desks, and organise health-focused activities like workshops or team hikes.

By adopting these strategies, entrepreneurs can foster a workplace culture where well-being isn’t just an added benefit, but a fundamental pillar. This proactive approach, combined with creative perks that cater to employee needs, not only enhances employee satisfaction and retention but also contributes significantly to the business’s overall success and sustainability.

Case studies of entrepreneurial success in employee well-being

These case studies illustrate how entrepreneur-led businesses have successfully integrated employee well-being into their operational ethos, setting a benchmark for company culture and employee engagement.

Build-A-Bear workshop

Known for creating a uniquely engaging work environment, the company offers its employees an array of unique perks that contribute to a fun and motivating atmosphere.

Founded by: Maxine Clark 

Key initiatives:

• On-site nap pods: Encouraging rest and relaxation to boost productivity and creativity.
• Employee discounts: Enhancing employee satisfaction and loyalty through discounts on merchandise.
• Employee recognition programs: Regularly acknowledging employee efforts to maintain high morale and motivation.

Warby Parker

As an eyewear company, Warby Parker stands out not only for its products but also for its quirky and caring company culture.

Founded by: Four Wharton graduates

Key initiatives:

• Unlimited paid time off: Empowering employees with the flexibility to balance work and personal life.
• Extended parental leave: Offering comprehensive support to new parents, well beyond standard policies.
• Work-life balance: Focusing on employee happiness, translates to high satisfaction and low turnover rates.

Patagonia

More than a clothing brand, Patagonia is a pioneer in environmental and social responsibility, integrating these core values into every aspect of its operations.

Founded by: Yvon Chouinard

Key Initiatives:

• Onsite childcare: Providing support for working parents with top-tier childcare services.
• Environmental activism: Encouraging employees to engage with environmental causes, reinforcing the company’s mission.
• Development programmes: Offering extensive training and development opportunities that promote personal and professional growth.

Culture Amp

As a people analytics platform, this company practices what it preaches by maintaining a transparent and supportive company culture.

Founded by: Robert Reichek and Didier Elzinga 

Key Initiatives:

• Flexible work arrangements: Allowing employees to work in ways that suit their personal needs and life circumstances.
• Generous parental leave: Providing substantial support to parents in the company.
• Emphasis on professional development: Committing to the continuous growth and well-being of every team member.

These case studies across various industries and different parts of the world illustrate the significant impact that entrepreneurial leadership can have on enhancing workplace well-being and setting a high standard for company culture. These examples can inspire other entrepreneurs to prioritise and innovate in employee well-being.

Overcoming challenges in enhancing workplace well-being 

The benefits of prioritising health and well-being in the workplace are clear. But the path to implementing these initiatives can be challenging. Entrepreneurs face unique hurdles not only in their personal lives but also in fostering a culture that supports these values within their companies. Here are some less obvious but significant obstacles and innovative strategies to overcome them.

Common Obstacles 

Personal time constraints

Entrepreneurs often struggle with balancing the demands of their business with personal health due to time constraints. This can lead to neglecting their own well-being, which paradoxically can impair their ability to lead effectively.

Cultural misalignment

In some cases, the existing company culture may not align with health-centric values. This misalignment can show up as scepticism or resistance from employees, particularly if they perceive these initiatives as superficial or unrelated to their core work.

Inconsistent engagement

Even with the best-laid plans, initial enthusiasm for health programs can wane over time. Sustaining engagement is a common challenge, particularly in diverse teams with varying health needs and interests.

Strategies for overcoming these challenges 

Integrating health into business goals

One effective strategy is to integrate personal and employee health goals with broader business objectives. For instance, linking team wellness metrics to productivity targets can help embed these initiatives into the company’s core operations, making them feel more relevant and essential.

Building on small successes

Instead of rolling out large-scale health programs from the start, entrepreneurs can focus on smaller, manageable changes that gradually build momentum. Simple steps like organising regular health discussions, short group exercises during breaks, or healthy snacks in the office can set the groundwork for more extensive programs later.

Personalising wellness approaches

Acknowledging that one size does not fit all is crucial in sustaining engagement. Offering customisable wellness plans or allowing employees to choose their preferred wellness activities can increase personal relevance and commitment. Surveys and feedback sessions can help tailor initiatives to better meet the diverse needs of the team.

Leading by authentic example

Entrepreneurs must go beyond token gestures and genuinely embody the wellness practices they promote. This involves openly discussing their own challenges and successes in maintaining health, to encourage an open and supportive culture. Sharing personal stories or struggles with work-life balance, for example, can make leaders more relatable and encourage others to share and engage with wellness programs more openly.

Leveraging technology and partnerships

Utilising technology to track and share health metrics can make wellness efforts more tangible and data-driven. Additionally, partnerships with local gyms, health experts, or wellness start-ups can provide resources and external motivation for maintaining the momentum of health initiatives.

By implementing thoughtful, tailored strategies, entrepreneurs can effectively foster a health-centric culture, boosting productivity and engagement. These approaches emphasise the need for adaptability and commitment in integrating well-being into business strategy.

Beyond beanbags: building a culture of well-being and innovation 

Entrepreneurial success goes beyond just ping-pong tables and gym memberships. It’s about prioritising employee well-being and fundamentally transforming how we view work’s impact on our lives. Entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to champion a healthier, more innovative future for business culture globally.

While implementing wellness initiatives requires effort, the rewards are transformative. Entrepreneurs can weave well-being into the DNA of their companies, fostering environments where creativity thrives, ideas flourish, and employees feel genuinely excited to come to work. This sets new standards for what it means to be a successful, modern business.

Key takeaways 

The strength of your business lies not only in profits but in the well-being of your people. As the saying goes, “A healthy mind resides in a healthy body.” This wisdom holds true for organisations, empowering innovation and excellence.

By leading with empathy, demonstrating commitment to well-being, and overcoming obstacles, entrepreneurs can inspire a shift towards holistic business practices. This is essential in today’s blurred work-life environment. Businesses that champion employee health pave the way for a brighter future.

Embrace this challenge. Let your thriving business exemplify the transformative power of prioritising employee well-being. Because as that singular entrepreneur, Richard Branson, so beautifully stated,

“If you look after your people, they will look after your customers. It’s that simple”.

If you would like to chat further about how to shape a healthy workplace, book in a free 30-minute consultation here.

Gratitude as a strength: the magic of accepting compliments

Discover how embracing praise can make a positive impact on your mental health. Learn to accept compliments and boost your self-esteem. 

Let’s play a quick game

1. You’re out at a party and the host says “You look stunning!”

You respond with:

       A. “Oh! You must be going blind”

       B. Stop it…”

       C. “Thank you.”

       2. You meet your first boss and she says “You’re doing brilliantly! You’ve come a long way.”

You say:

      A. “Everyone says I’m born under a lucky star”

      B. “I have still so much to do”

      C. “I’m so glad to hear you say that. Thank you.”

      3. You wow everyone with a presentation at work and a colleague comments, “That was incredibly insightful! You really know your stuff.” 

You reply with:

A. “Oh, I just threw some slides together last minute.”

B. “I guess I got lucky this time.”

C. “Thanks so much! I’m glad you found it helpful.”

If you’ve chosen option c in all three scenarios above, congratulations! You are doing brilliantly! But most often, we women are so self-critical that accepting a compliment with grace can be surprisingly challenging. 

This seemingly small act, saying those two simple words “thank you” holds immense power, capable of transforming our mental health and boosting our self-esteem. Yet, so many of us struggle to get those words out. Instead, we opt to deflect or downplay the praise we receive. 

It’s time to explore why embracing compliments is essential for our well-being and how it can help build stronger self-acceptance and mental resilience. 

Why compliments feel good but can be hard to accept

Receiving a compliment can make us feel great for the whole day.

Mark Twain once said, “I can live for two months on a good compliment.”

Yet, acknowledging that compliment, accepting it with a simple “thank you’? That often feels as tough as solving a maths problem. And that’s because a lot is going on behind the scenes when someone says nice about you. 

Hearing good things about yourself should make you feel amazing. The warm, fuzzy feeling is partly due to your brain releasing a happy chemical called dopamine. This not only makes you feel great but also nudges you to keep doing whatever you do to earn that praise. 

But here’s the twist: Even though compliments are like mini cheerleaders for your self-esteem, you probably deflect them for the most part. Why? A lot has to do with how you’re raised and the mixed messages you get from all around. Societal norms dictate the need to be modest, not too proud, and always strive for more. So, when someone sends a compliment your way, it can feel like you’re suddenly put in the spotlight, and your first instinct is to step out of it.

But here’s a helpful tip – think of compliments as tiny gifts of words. They’re meant to be opened and enjoyed, not pushed away. They give you a peek at how others see you, shining a light on the good stuff you might not even notice about yourself. And isn’t it a joy to discover something positive you didn’t realise you had?

But, getting to the point where you can happily accept these word gifts takes a bit of practice. It’s about retraining your brain to understand that it’s okay to feel good about yourself and to see your own worth through others’ eyes.

You need to get comfortable with letting those positive vibes in and letting them lift you up. It’s simpler than it sounds, and with a little bit of practice, you can definitely get there.

Learning to accept the applause

In the words of author, Steve Goodier, “Sincere compliments cost nothing and can accomplish so much. In ANY relationship they are the applause that refreshes.” 

It’s one thing to understand that compliments are like secret boosts for your self-esteem. It’s also easy to acknowledge that accepting them can sometimes feel like trying to hug a cactus. But how do you get from awkwardly sidestepping praise to fully embracing it? It boils down to changing your mindset and practising until it feels natural.

It’s not bragging, it’s believing:

First up, let’s tackle the big myth: Accepting a compliment doesn’t mean you’re full of yourself. It means you’re starting to believe in your own worth, and that’s always a good thing. When someone says you did a great job, they’re not expecting you to disagree. They’re giving you a verbal high-five. Would you leave a high-five hanging? Probably not. So, why leave a compliment hanging in the air?

Practice makes perfect:

Like any skill, accepting compliments takes practice. Start by resisting the natural urge to downplay or deflect. The next time someone compliments you, try responding with a simple “Thank you.” That’s it. No “but” or “it was nothing” attached. Just “Thank you.” It might feel weird at first, but keep at it. Over time, it’ll start feeling more natural, and you’ll begin to see yourself in the positive light others see you.

Turn the compliment into a conversation:

If “Thank you” feels too short or inadequate, and you’re itching to say more, use the compliment as a springboard for a conversation. For example, if someone praises your presentation skills, you could say, “Thank you! I’ve been really working on them. Is there anything you think I could do even better next time?” This way, you’re accepting the compliment while staying engaged and open to growth.

Reflect on the praise:

After receiving a compliment, take a moment to reflect on it. Instead of brushing it off, think about what was said and how it makes you feel. This reflection can help reinforce your positive qualities in your own mind and gradually build your self-esteem.

Spread the love:

Getting comfortable with receiving compliments often makes you better at giving them too. When you start noticing the good in yourself, you’ll also start seeing it in others. Sharing genuine compliments can create a positive feedback loop, where everyone around you feels appreciated and valued.

Remember, you deserve it: 

The most important thing to keep in mind is that you deserve the compliments you receive. They’re not flukes or mistakes. They’re reflections of your hard work, talent, and the impact you have on others. Embracing them is not just about feeling good in the moment; it’s about building a foundation of self-worth that can carry you through challenges and successes alike.

Embracing compliments: a step towards loving yourself

Accepting compliments gracefully isn’t only about navigating social situations with elegance; it’s an act of self-love and affirmation. It’s a declaration that you see your worth and are ready to embrace the love and respect others offer you.

Beyond the ‘thank you’:

Understanding and practising the art of accepting compliments lays the groundwork for a healthier, more positive relationship with yourself. Each “thank you” you utter is a step away from self-doubt and toward self-assurance. But the journey doesn’t stop at simply accepting kind words; you need to internalise them – letting them take root in yourself, and allowing them to grow into a sturdy, unwavering self-esteem.

The mirror of reflection: 

Think of each compliment as a mirror, reflecting back at you the qualities and strengths you possess. This mirror doesn’t lie; it simply shows you what others see – the best parts of you. Allow yourself the grace to believe in this reflection, to accept it as your truth. It’s in this belief that the true transformation begins, transforming not just how you see yourself, but how you navigate the world around you.

A ripple effect:

When you start to accept compliments with grace and gratitude, you don’t just change yourself; you also change how others interact with you. Your acceptance encourages more open and positive interactions, creating a ripple effect of goodwill and appreciation. This isn’t just about making yourself feel good; it’s about encouraging an environment where kindness, appreciation, and positive reinforcement thrive.

Final words of envouragement:

Accepting a compliment, even with “thank you” is more than about being polite – it’s a powerful affirmation of your worth. Each compliment you receive is a gift, an offering of respect and admiration. Embrace it. Cherish it. Let it remind you of your value, especially in moments of doubt.

If you find yourself struggling to accept compliments, don’t be discouraged. Like any skill, it takes practice. Start small, remind yourself of your worth, and remember that it’s okay to feel proud of who you are and what you’ve accomplished. You are deserving of praise, not for perfection, but for the effort, the passion, and the uniqueness you bring into this world.

In closing 

Your journey through this exploration of compliments is much more than about learning to say “thank you.” It’s about recognising your value, allowing yourself to be seen, and, most importantly, seeing yourself through a lens of kindness and appreciation. 

As you step out into the world, carry with you the knowledge that you are worthy of every kind word, every note of praise, and every accolade that comes your way.

May you walk forward with your head held high, your heart open, and your ears ready to accept the beautiful truths others see in you. Remember, each step you take in accepting compliments is a step towards embracing your true self – flaws and all – with love and pride.

If you would like to chat further about how you can empower yourself and others through gratitude, book in a free 30-minute consultation here.