Unicorns may be fantastical creatures—often depicted alongside sparkly rainbows and a flock of fairies in our favourite tales—but did you know they exist in the workplace too? Okay, maybe not in the flying horse sense. More in the form of organizations with the right mix of workplace culture, human resources practices and the collaborative effort it takes to bolster employee wellness and create a positive, healthy working environment. To celebrate Canadian Healthy Workplace Month, we want to share ways you can bring your best self to work so that you (and your colleagues) can feel that unicorn sparkle too.
What makes a good workplace?
One that recognizes the connection between employee wellness and overall workplace wellness, of course! According to Guarding Minds at Work, a psychologically healthy and safe workplace is one that actively works to both promote employee psychological health and well-being and prevent harm due to negligent, reckless or intentional acts. When you feel like you can bring your authentic self to work, you’re in good stead for contributing to a great workplace culture.
What can you do?
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- Find your people. Social connection is a powerful tool we can use to stay well. When you find someone you connect with at work—who you trust and can confide in—it’s much easier to grind through tough periods knowing that you’re in it together, and to celebrate when you achieve something amazing!
- Get some rest. At home, that is. Sleep is paramount when it comes to feeling your best. When you’re well rested, you don’t have to rely on an endless caffeine supply to get through the workday. Not to mention, everyone is more pleasant to be around when they wake up on the right side of the bed thanks to a good night’s sleep.
- Learn to roll with it. Strengthening your resilience and accepting change will go a long way at work. Whatever the hurdle, the ability to bounce back and be flexible with outcomes is key. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or raise your hand when you need help. You’ll not only prove what a wonderful team support you are—you’ll develop skills that are often top of the list for potential leadership roles.
- Look on the bright side. It can be tempting to join in on workplace gossip, but when you participate in spreading negativity, it impacts the whole team. There’s a well-known saying: birds of a feather flock together, and you won’t find that unicorn sparkle if you’re busy chirping away. Instead, focus on the moments throughout your workday that make you smile. These glimmers, no matter how big or small, will strengthen your feelings of purpose and connection with your role and team.
Fine Tune Your Focus
You have the power to take care of yourself in and out of the workplace. Try to focus on the different areas of well-being in whatever way works best for you. And remember, our mental health supports can help you to fine tune your own well-being, so you can be your brightest self at work! Depending on your supports, we can connect you with professional guidance for things like building self confidence and finding resilience, eating nutritious meals to keep your body well-fueled, child or eldercare support to help ease the mental load of ensuring your loved ones are well taken care of and so much more.
Lead the Way
Everyone can be a leader (especially a cheerleader!) of others on their team—no management title necessary. While there are many factors that contribute to a healthy workplace, individual efforts can go a long way. Focus on creating a positive, safe work environment, and watch that sparkle become contagious!
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