You might be surprised to learn that it’s no longer the flu keeping most employees home from work. Recent studies have shown that mental health, rather than physical health, has become one of the main causes of absenteeism in the workplace. Mental health and well being are directly linked to productivity and, because of this, firms are shifting their focus to implement resilience programs in the workplace.
We’ve done some digging and have come up with a few reasons why you should join the 50% (and growing!) of companies who already have, or are implementing, resilience programs for their employees.
What is Resilience?
Resilience is:
“The capacity to use personal skills to bounce back from challenging situations and to properly handle and overcome setbacks”.
Resilience in the workplace teaches employees how to persevere despite any personal or professional obstacles that may come their way.
Why is Resilience Important in the Workplace?
Whether it’s an upcoming project deadline or a difficult family situation, stress is something we all have to deal with from time to time. Resilience influences how well employees can juggle the stresses of both work and home. A resilient employee will be able to prevent everyday stresses from inhibiting their success in the professional world, as well as their general personal well being. In fact, recent studies have proven that low resilience reduces creativity and problem-solving abilities when faced with challenges. When faced with a dilemma, someone with low resilience is more likely to focus on all of the possible negative outcomes rather than think critically to solve the problem. That’s no good!
How does a Lack of Resilience Impact Your Health?
Having a strong support network of co-workers, friends, and family is a huge factor in building resilience. Research has shown that those with insufficient social connections have higher blood pressure and slower recovery time from physical injuries. These issues lead to higher levels of absenteeism, which translates into a loss of money and lower levels of productivity for your company. Many businesses have been taking steps in the right direction when it comes to implementing exercise and healthy eating programs. However, more can always be done. By taking the time to teach resilience, employees will become more likely to stay motivated to keep on track, stay focused on their goals, and bounce back from an ‘off day’ more quickly.
How Can You Build Resilience in Your Workforce?
Here are 4 important matters to consider when implementing a resilience program in your workplace:
1. Resilience is a skill that can be learned.
While some employees may already have some level of resilience, others will be starting from square one. A properly trained resilience coach will be able to explain the science behind the skill and assist your workforce in becoming a stronger, more productive team.
2. The best resilience programs are comprehensive.
Resilience programs should teach not only the importance of thinking positively, but also how to do it. For most, this requires a mental shift and a change in thinking habits.
3. Resilience programs enhance positive relationships in and out of the workplace.
These programs teach employees how to build and maintain positive relationships, strengthening personal networks both professionally and socially.
4. An investment in resilience programs is an investment for life.
By learning how to be resilient, employees gain lasting strategies for stress response. These skills prepare employees for stressful situations in day-to-day life.
So, we’ve made our point. Building resilience among employees can have lasting effects in all areas of your company. Implementing a resilience program will allow you to benefit from a more productive, creative, and healthy workforce.
Blog originally posted on the Perkbox blog.
If you’d like to find out more about how to reward your employees for their hard work and give them those breaks they need and deserve, please click here and watch our video on Perkbox
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