Top tips for a healthy workplace

A healthy workplace allows you to achieve and exceed performance objectives in a safe environment and encourages well-being and a good work life balance. From taking regular breaks to not eating at your desk, adopting a healthy lifestyle in the office is a key element in improving your workplace wellbeing.

Here are seven relatively simple changes you can make to break the busy-ness cycle and improve your well-being and work output:
 

Take regular breaks

It can be hard to take breaks when you’re really busy, however taking regular breaks is one of the most important things you can do to keep focussed and productive. Working smart by taking regular breaks will help you to leave the office on time, thereby improving your work life balance.

Know your limits

"If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your workload it’s important that you let your manager know, in case they’re able to help relieve the pressure." says Suzanne Feeney, Director of Robert Walters Ireland. "Taking on additional responsibilities can be a great way of adding variety to your work but knowing when to say no is an important way to reduce stress or anxiety."

Stay away from gossip

While it can be tempting to get involved in office politics or to gossip, in the long run participating in such activity is counter-productive and can result in a toxic work environment. If a colleague invites you to participate in gossip, listen with empathy but stay uninvolved.

Keep your desk tidy

It may seem silly but a tidy desk really does help you to work more efficiently and can help you to feel (and look!) more organised. 

Eat in designated areas

Keep your work space as germ free as possible by ensuring you eat in designated eating areas and not at your desk. 

Adhere to health and safety policies

Make sure you’re aware of the health and safety policies of your office and any resources that may be available, so that you know what to do should an incident arise.

If you’re sick, take sick leave

While it may seem honourable to stay at work when not feeling well, in reality staying at work when you’re sick is selfish. You risk spreading your germs to your colleagues and extending your recovery time by not taking adequate rest.

Develop good posture

Good posture helps you to stay focussed on the task at hand and can reduce the incidence of workplace injury. You will also look more professional and will be less likely to experience fatigue.