In today’s fast-paced business world, the pressure to succeed often translates into a culture of overworking. A recent study revealed that a staggering 95% of employees feel external pressure to overwork, with almost three-quarters of people working overtime at least once a week.
As an executive leadership coach, I’ve witnessed countless companies struggle with the detrimental effects of this trend. The consequences are clear: burnout, decreased productivity, and high turnover rates.
If you’re looking to shift your company culture away from this damaging pattern, it’s time to take action. In my experience, here are six effective strategies to create a healthier, more balanced work environment.
Redefine Success: Challenge the notion that long hours equate to success. Instead, focus on results, efficiency, and quality of work. Encourage your team to prioritize their well-being and create a culture that values work-life balance. Celebrate achievements that stem from smart work, not just hard work.
Lead by Example: As a leader, your actions speak louder than words. If you want your employees to embrace a healthier work-life balance, you must model that behavior yourself. Avoid sending emails late at night or on weekends. Take your vacation days and disconnect from work. Show your team that it’s okay to prioritize personal time and self-care.
Implement Flexible Work Arrangements: Rigid work schedules can contribute to overworking and burnout. Introduce flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or adjustable hours. Trust your employees to manage their time effectively and focus on their deliverables. This flexibility can lead to increased job satisfaction and improved work-life balance.
Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe space for employees to discuss their workload and any challenges they face. Regularly check in with your team members and listen to their concerns. Foster a culture of open communication where employees feel comfortable speaking up when they feel overwhelmed or need support.
Invest in Employee Well-being: Show your employees that you value their well-being beyond their work contributions. Offer wellness programs, such as stress management workshops, mental health resources, or fitness classes. Encourage regular breaks throughout the day and promote a culture of self-care. When employees feel supported and cared for, they are more likely to thrive both personally and professionally.
Regularly Assess Workload and Resources: Overworking often stems from unrealistic expectations and insufficient resources. Regularly assess your team’s workload and ensure that projects are adequately staffed. If necessary, hire additional team members or redistribute tasks to prevent burnout. Continuously evaluate processes and identify areas where efficiency can be improved.
Shifting your company culture away from overworking requires a consistent and committed effort from leadership. By redefining success, leading by example, implementing flexible work arrangements, encouraging open communication, investing in employee well-being, and regularly assessing workload, you can create a healthier, more sustainable work environment.
Lead From Within: Your employees are your most valuable asset. A culture that values balance and self-care is a culture that breeds success.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- This is What Happens When You Build a Successful Culture
- 4 Simple Ways To Keep Your Best Employees Longer
- How to Be Successful in a Toxic Culture
- How to Care for Your Employees’ Mental Health
- The Best Way to Change a Toxic Culture
- Showing Appreciation: How to Let Your Employees Know They Matter
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.