Cultivating Calm In A Fast-Paced Work Culture

Anne Krog Iversen is the Co-founder, Chief DNA & Culture Officer at TimeXtender.
While my company, TimeXtender, observes World Mental Health Day every year, I was particularly struck by the relevance of this year’s theme. For 2024, the World Federation for Mental Health (WFHM) centered its global campaign around one idea: “It is time to prioritize mental health in the workplace.” Considering how often we’re swept up in overwhelming news cycles about global conflicts, political tensions and the ongoing climate crisis, this message felt more urgent than ever.
Mental health is increasingly being acknowledged as a critical issue in the workplace. Challenges such as stress, depression and anxiety extend far beyond the individual, affecting productivity, attendance and overall organizational performance. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, organizations are now more attuned to the fact that employee well-being is both a personal issue and a critical factor in business success.
As leaders, we have a responsibility to safeguard the mental well-being of our teams. It’s essential that we create supportive environments where mental health is prioritized, allowing our people to thrive despite the pressures of the modern workplace and society. By adopting and sharing best practices that inspire healthier workplace cultures, we can prioritize mental health and ensure employees feel supported.
Ways To Cultivate A Culture That Values Rest
At its best, our work can provide meaning, purpose and joy. However, in a digital society where the pace never slows, the pressures of constant productivity can detract from mental health if not managed properly. The dilemma lies in balancing the drive for speed with the need for mental cool-down. Here are some methods you can share with your employees.
Log Off When Needed
While technology helps us stay productive, it can also lead to feeling constantly “on.” That’s why it’s important to set clear boundaries and encourage employees to be mindful of how they use technology. For example, you can remind them to turn off notifications, step away from chats and emails and take breaks from the endless news stream when needed. This helps protect their mental health and creates a healthier balance between work and life.
Take Restorative Breaks
One of the easiest ways to stay balanced during the day is by taking mindful breaks. Adding simple practices like mindfulness, meditation or breathing exercises into our routines can help us stay focused and calm. Even if it’s just a few minutes, intentional relaxation can boost creativity and make it easier to solve problems. Here are a few examples of restorative activities.
• Mindful Walking: Go for a short walk, and use the time to shift your focus outward. Pay attention to your surroundings, and take in everything without judgment. This practice helps you stay present, reduces negative thought patterns and balances your nervous system. You can also reflect on things you’re thankful for, which can brighten your mood.
• Breathing Exercises: Make it a habit to take moments of stillness throughout the day. Practice your favorite breathing exercises regularly. When done consistently, your body will remember that calm state, helping you stay grounded, even in stressful situations.
• Silent Brain Breaks: Before or after meetings or when you’ve accomplished a task, give your brain a reset for a few minutes. Sit quietly, observe your thoughts and then let them pass, clearing space for new information. You can also use this time to practice your favorite breathing exercises.
Foster A Supportive Environment
For these strategies to really work, though, they need to be part of the company culture. Back in 2017, TimeXtender started offering weekly “recharge sessions” to help employees build mental resilience. For example, we shared mindfulness practices like meditation and simple stretches to do at the desk. Over the years, a portion of the company has regularly participated, with others joining in when they feel the need.
Leadership participation is vital because we play a pivotal role in fostering a culture that prioritizes mental health. We can model mentally healthy behavior, support open conversations about mental health and implement policies and training that promote well-being. This creates a high-morale environment where employees feel empowered and valued.
Inclusive practices are equally important. Social inclusion and empowerment are vital for developing a culture where employees can thrive. For example, we host mental health awareness events called Barstools, where Xpeople (our internal nickname) come together to share stories about mental health and discuss useful practices. We’ve also recorded a few podcast episodes where employees share stories related to stress, imposter syndrome, social anxiety or whatever topics emerge during these conversations. I find that when everyone feels included and empowered, it strengthens the collective mental health of the organization.
Conclusion
As HR professionals and business leaders, it’s our responsibility to prioritize mental health in fast-paced work environments. It’s essential that we take meaningful action all year long. Actively supporting mental resilience benefits both our employees and organizations by building a healthier, more productive and sustainable workplace.
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