Creating Healthy Work Habits for the New Year
Wednesday, January 6, 2021 - Joe Kiedinger
“The Christmas cards have all been sent. The Christmas rush is through.” So goes the classic song. But, what’s next?
After a couple of weeks of holiday ham, decadent cookies, desserts and drinks it’s natural that we lean toward dieting and exercise first in the new year. As you consider your 2021 resolutions, I challenge you to focus on more than your step count and calorie intake. Adopt some healthy new habits in your work life as well.
Did you know, most of us spend about half of our waking hours at work? Shouldn’t those hours be happy ones? I believe most Americans in the workplace would be happier (and, thus, more effective) if they 1) contributed to their company’s purpose, 2) felt engaged and 3) felt dignified. So, let’s make 2021 the Year of Organizational Health with these healthy habits:
Contributing Toward Purpose:
Do you feel your role in the workplace contributes to your organization’s overall purpose? What about your employees? Leaders, this is a great question to ask in one-on-ones. When it comes down to it, we all want to know we’re making a difference and moving our company toward larger goals. If you’re not currently contributing to company goals, brainstorm some ways you can and bring them to your leader. Proactivity is a gift!
Building Engagement:
“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” right? So toss in that silly joke, take three minutes to ask about your associates’ weekend and start each meeting with a round of “Good News.” Have some meaningful conversations and work to understand your associates’ dreams, goals and aspirations. Employees who feel engaged are much more likely to be effective workers.
Spreading Dignity:
We all want to feel respected, heard and liked. At Prophit Co. we contribute to this goal by sharing “Dignifies” in our Morning Huddle, thanking our co-workers and associates for the small, everyday moments when they have gone above and beyond. Take time to honor the people who contribute to even small wins. Give me a score of small wins over a big one any day.
We also schedule weekly Dignify Check-Ins so we are reminded of each Prophiteer’s personal motivations and how we can best communicate with them. We also give our associates ample time in one-on-ones to discuss what’s going well, what challenges they face and provide a listening ear so they feel heard. What ways can you apply similar concepts in your workplace?
JOE KIEDINGER
ACTION PLAN: Our 2021 Organizational Health Plan may be the kick in the pants your company needs to get started on a healthier, more effective new year.