Winter is coming - it’s time to perk up!
Getting into a gloomy autumn-winter season may be putting a dent in the team productivity, overall spirit and (seasonal) health and wellbeing. According to ADAA, 18.1% of adult Americans suffer from anxiety every year, the percentage that rose to 40% in time of the pandemic according to KFF.
In a recent Gallup research, 59% of U.S. employees who have been WFH in the pandemic would prefer to continue to work remotely as much as possible, once public health restrictions are lifted fully. Remote workers face challenges like stress, isolation, and anxiety. Specific benefits like mental health support and subscription packages will help them fight these challenges.
Here are a few creative ideas on how to increase the serotonin level and lift the mood of your teams this season, all on remote first basis:
Mental health, emotional wellbeing and sleep support. Check out apps like Wysa, Calm, Bloom, BetterHelp and Youper for some inspirations.
Online workout classes - from boxing to nutrition and meditation. Have a look at MyFitnessPal, The body coach, FitBit and Peloton. Invite the trainer to host a meditation session just for your team on daily/weekly/monthly basis.
Childcare benefits - balancing work and home is difficult, especially for those with children.
Meal home delivery & team lunch. Pick the local provider(s) and set up some time for a nice lunch together.
Open the Zoom “coffee-chat” space to allow employees to mingle when taking a short break.
Home Cleaning services - managing hectic schedules, increased workload and family can be a challenge, help your employees concentrate on what is important.
Access to co-working spaces. It’s natural that sometimes we all miss the office environment or some peace and quiet. Organise a pass to co-working space for those who value it or where most of your team is based.
Annual get-aways. Fly everyone in to one location for an activity of your choice - charity work, adventure or a retreat - get creative!
Sponsor professional memberships and/or virtual coaching programs. Career progression and belonging to a community is a strong motivator to excel in whatever you do and help one learn quicker.
Offer financial, investment and legal advisor sessions - group and 1-1.
Organise a virtual book club. You can offer audiobook subscription. Get together once a month to discuss the book you all just read. Ice breaker like no other!
Plant Subscription: some have a garden, some just like greenery! Top 7 plant subscription boxes to enjoy freshness at home.
Get cultural: offer museum, theatre, exhibition memberships or sports tickets to special events.
NB: No-one will give you a better idea on what would be most helpful than your employees. Pick some options you are able to organise and get polling!
