Article: Roadblocks in corporate well-being: Decoding the challenges

A Brand Reachout InitiativeCorporate Wellness Programs

Roadblocks in corporate well-being: Decoding the challenges

While organisations strive to craft well-being experiences that foster engagement and productivity, their path is often obstructed by nuanced challenges that can hinder impact. Understanding these barriers is the first step towards creating meaningful change.
Roadblocks in corporate well-being: Decoding the challenges

Corporate well-being can accurately be described as a complex space: The essence of well-being has evolved to craft experiences that resonate with individuals’ personal, unique needs. However, this evolving approach is fraught with unseen hurdles - from competing priorities to cultural differences, and the elusive question of what truly makes well-being initiatives successful.

A recent Gallup report reveals a concerning situation regarding employee well-being - A mere 14% of Indian employees report that they are thriving in life, while a staggering 86% feel that they are either struggling or suffering. To address this alarming situation, it is essential first to identify and understand the challenges surrounding employees' overall wellness. 

The strain of work-life ‘imbalance’

Given the rise in hybrid and remote work models, the blurring of boundaries has instigated a range of challenges. From longer working hours to dwindling personal time, employees often find it difficult to disconnect, which leads to burnout and a decline in productivity. There is a pressing need for organisations to address this challenge by fostering a flexible work culture, setting clear boundaries, and creating an environment where employees can maintain a healthy equilibrium between their personal and professional lives. 

The urgency for a digital detox

While technology has enhanced productivity to substantial levels, its constant exposure can significantly overwhelm employees. The barrage of emails, messages, and recurring virtual calls keep employees plugged in around the clock. The constant digital engagement has an obstructive effect on focus and creates a cycle of stress that impacts employees’ overall health. A digital detox must not be considered a luxury, rather a need of the hour. Organisations must rethink their excessive dependence on technology and create opportunities for employees to disconnect, recharge, and preserve their well-being. This shift would require intentional efforts towards promoting offline activities and setting boundaries for tech usage.

Well-being at a ‘cost’

Limited budgets often hinder the development of comprehensive and successful well-being drives, which compels organisations to provide low-cost solutions. While these wellness initiatives are integral to augmenting employee engagement and productivity, budget constraints faced by many companies restrict the former’s scope.  As a consequence, employees often bear the burden of healthcare expenses from their own pockets. This challenge calls for a thorough review of well-being programs - ensuring that long-term benefits are weighed against immediate costs. The goal must be to develop creative and sustainable well-being strategies to maximise impact and benefits, even within budgetary limits.

The Barrier of Mental Health Stigma

Fearing judgement or professional repercussions, there is a persistent reluctance among individuals to seek mental health support openly. This hesitation can exacerbate anxiety, stress and ultimately a decline in their overall well-being, creating a negative impact on engagement and productivity. Addressing this challenge requires fostering trust and providing concrete and confidential support mechanisms that empower employees to seek help without any inhibitions. 

Cultural misalignment

There might be instances where well-being programs fail to resonate with diverse values and backgrounds of employees. Such one-size-fits-all programs often tend to overlook individual preferences, cultural norms, and societal attitudes. For instance, offering meals that do not align with local dietary preferences could make employees feel alienated rather than engaging. Such misalignments can even be seen in hierarchical workplaces where wellness programs require open discussions or collaboration across levels. To address situations like these, organisations must adopt a culturally sensitive approach by actively involving employees in the curation of well-being drives.

Addressing well-being challenges requires a deeper, nuanced approach. These obstacles demand thoughtful action, approached in a way that propagates the long-term well-being of employees and organisations as a whole. By tackling these challenges head-on, organisations can foster an inclusive culture where comprehensive well-being is prioritized. 

Read full story

Topics: Corporate Wellness Programs, #Wellbeing, #Wellness First With MediBuddy

Did you find this story helpful?

Author