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Writer's pictureMargaux Leysens

Wellbeing as a business strategy: How it contributes to your bottom line

Updated: Jun 4

In today's competitive labor market, known as the 'war on talent', successful companies distinguish themselves not only by their products or services, but also by how they invest in the well-being of their employees. A healthy lifestyle in the workplace goes beyond ergonomic office chairs or flexible working hours; it is a fundamental pillar for creating a stimulating and productive work environment. This blog article delves into the essence of wellbeing in the workplace and explores practical tips to promote a healthy lifestyle that not only keeps employees focused, but also makes them happier.


The importance of Wellbeing in the Workplace

Wellbeing in the workplace is not just a 'nice to have'; it is a 'must have' for modern companies that want to attract and retain top talent. In today's 'war on talent', more and more employees are looking for organizations that put their health and well-being first; 72% of them find a good work-life balance very important (Vivaldi interim study of 1,000 employees). For some business leaders it is pure logic: “If you take care of your employees, they will take care of your company, it's that simple,” says Richard Brandson, CEO of The Virgin Group. Research also shows that employees who feel valued and healthy are more committed, absent less often and more loyal to their employer in the long term, which in turn results in company profits.


Take care of your employees and they will take care of your company. It's that simple – Richard Branson

The Connection between Healthy Lifestyle and Productivity

Many business leaders see a healthy lifestyle primarily as a personal choice, one that they cannot or do not want to impose on their employees. But through a positive approach and nudging you can teach your employees a lot without that obligation. Because a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve employees' mental clarity, energy levels and overall satisfaction. A connection that has also been confirmed by the WHO and itself calculated by the Health Enhancement Research Organization (HERO). For example, a healthy diet during the day can increase work performance by 25% and production by up to 20%. So by consciously investing in employee health, companies can create a virtuous cycle of wellness and efficiency that boosts the bottom line. A connection that is therefore impossible to deny.





The body as a engine!

Your body and mind need the right “fuel” to keep going. For example, nutrient-rich foods such as whole wheat rice, whole wheat pasta, legumes, etc. contain complex carbohydrates that provide a stable energy supply, making them a perfect choice for your body. These 'slow' sugars are gradually converted into energy, making employees feel fitter and more energetic and less likely to get tired. For example, people should also be less likely to turn to coffee or unhealthy sugars that provide an instant boost but quickly fade away and are themselves harmful if overconsumed.

 

But how do you ensure that your employees make healthy choices, but also acquire this knowledge?

 

Via nudging: the following list can help you with this:

  • During meetings, always put water in the middle and coffee somewhere else. This way it will be taken advantage of more quickly.

  • Make fruit accessible and visible. Provide variety and motivate your employees with a nice text next to the fruit basket.

  • Make other healthy snacks free, and unhealthy snacks charged.

  • If you offer meals, choose healthier options without labeling them as such. For example, introduce more vegetarian meals and reduce meat consumption.

  • Organize walking meetings. If you are with a small group, try to do this while walking outside and limit your time.


But you can also work more hands-on, where you introduce your employees to the benefits in a fun way. One of the most effective ways to promote health and wellbeing in the workplace is by organizing cooking workshops, a popular choice. Karl Magnus, Co-founder of Cookwork, also agrees with this: “We see a clear difference here compared to a few years ago. Requests for workshops on healthy food and cooking have increased by 55% in the last 3 years. These activities can not only strengthen collaboration among the team, but also teach valuable skills on how to cook healthier and more sustainably.


Requests for workshops on healthy food and cooking have increased by 55% in the last 3 years. –Karl Magnus

If you combine this as a company with other easy to implement tips, you will soon reap the benefits as a company:

  • Exercise: Encourage short exercise breaks throughout the day to break up sitting and stimulate circulation.

  • Mental Health Programs: Provide access to stress management programs and psychological support.

  • Flexible Working Hours: Give employees the freedom to adjust their working hours to suit their natural rhythm and life outside of work.

 

Closing

Winning the 'war on talent' therefore means more than just offering competitive salaries and benefits; it requires a fundamental shift towards prioritizing employee well-being as a core part of company culture. Companies that take action now to create a supportive, healthy work environment will not only stand out in a crowded marketplace, but will also build a stronger, more engaged and more productive workforce. Start implementing practical steps like community cooking workshops, flexible work hours, and mental health programs, and see how these investments in wellness translate into measurable business benefits. By investing in the well-being of your employees today, you invest in the long-term success of your company. Let's work together towards a future where work is not just something we do, but a place where we grow, learn and thrive.


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