You’ve heard the term work-life balance probably too many times.  Because more and more busy professionals are taking advantage of the ability to work remotely, the term is getting a bit of a status change from distant fantasy to likely reality.  Not only can you attend meetings en route and send emails at any hour of the day, but you can also get your kids to soccer practice and possibly indulge in a meal together a couple of times a week.  All good things, right?  Think again.

The problem with this new-found “freedom” to work anywhere, anytime, has caused us to do just that.  Maybe our time at the office and time at home seems fairly divided, but in terms of overall wellbeing, our workaholism is leading to some serious health issues including high stress, obesity and chronic back pain from too much sitting and screen gazing.  Fortunately, many companies are implementing wellbeing programs as a solution.  Check out the list below, and see how your company compares.

What is Wellbeing?

Yes, wellbeing includes the exhausted work-life balance category, but it’s much deeper than that.  It’s a more holistic approach to offering programs, benefits and services that address several components of health and wellness – not just the number of hours spent at the office.

Wellbeing can focus on nutrition, fitness, stress, sleep, illness prevention, social interaction and community outreach.

Wellbeing Programs and Benefits

Not only are many companies offering a variety of health and wellness programs, but many offer incentives for participation, like reduced health insurance costs, gift cards and gym membership reimbursement.  Here are some examples of what companies are doing improve employee wellbeing.

Fitness

• Onsite exercise equipment and group exercise classes
• Onsite personal trainers
• Insurance reimbursement for health club memberships
• Hosting and/or organizing employee participation in fitness events like 5Ks

Nutrition

• Onsite registered dietitians
• Healthy cooking classes
• Cafeterias with healthy, whole-food options
• Onsite farmers markets

Stress Management

• Onsite mental health professionals
• Yoga and meditation classes
• Onsite massage therapy
• Hire productivity consultant

Illness and Illness Prevention

• Onsite clinics for minor illnesses
• Onsite pharmacies
• Smoking cessation programs
• Health screenings and vaccinations

Many companies are also highly involved in helping out the community.  Whether it’s organizing a volunteering effort or donating a percentage of profits, there are many ways companies are giving back.  The acts of service and generosity promote positivity and absolutely contribute to overall wellbeing.

What’s the Point?

Offering wellbeing programs not only helps the employees achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle, but it also benefits the company.  Healthier employees means less sick time, higher employee engagement, increased productivity and overall job satisfaction.

If you’re a leader in your organization looking for ways to improve overall performance, take a look at what wellbeing programs are offered to your employees.  How many of the above benefits does your company offer?  Maybe it’s time to think about implementing new programs.  Many activities like hosting a local farmers market, organizing a softball team or hiring a presenter can be quick and affordable options to implement.

If you’re not a decision-maker, become one.  Speak up, and others will follow.  In the meantime, keep a pair of sneakers in your office, and schedule a walk-and-talk for your next meeting. It’s amazing what a little fresh air and exercise can do for your productivity.