9-5 WORK HEALTH
Written by: Marina Townsend
Workplace health has never been more crucial, especially in light of a recent Gallup report highlighting job dissatisfaction at an all-time high. Negative feelings towards work are prevalent, and after conducting research on a company of over 200 staff members, I discovered that 80% of employees were unhappy due to work overload, poor pay, and poor leadership.
For years, colleagues have bonded over the shared trauma of toxic workplaces, and, unfortunately, this appears to be a reality that many will continue to face for the foreseeable future. The majority of the workforce spends most of their waking hours at work, and with the return to the office now more common, it's essential that the workplace is a healthy environment.
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Arguably, the biggest problem is toxic leadership. If poor leaders were replaced by those with sound judgement, the issue of work overload could be alleviated, and even poor pay might be less of a burden. Many employees, when given the choice, will prioritise peace over money. Of course, fair pay is essential, but in many cases, people can endure financial challenges longer if their mental and emotional wellbeing are safeguarded. There must be at least one positive reason to stay in a workplace, and good leadership is key.
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However, for many workers, all these issues coexist. Yet, bills still need to be paid and families cared for, so mental health often takes a backseat. When that happens, people go into ‘survival mode’, and the stresses of work inevitably bleed into home life. Before long, the weekend respite is spent mentally preparing for yet another week of workplace dread.
Far too many people are working themselves to the bone for little reward. They receive minimal pay, while dealing with unhappy bosses projecting their own insecurities. Something must change. The world we live in is dominated by unfit leaders, motivated solely by financial gain. This trickles down, creating a society that often values people only for their economic worth.
While the purpose of business is to generate profit, a healthier work environment is crucial for those involved in this process. Yes, there are businesses that do great things for society, but far more people are struggling to make ends meet. One solution is simple: provide a healthy workplace environment.
If a toxic work environment feels all too familiar, and you find it difficult to disconnect, I urge you to take a full day to realign your mind. For those with more time, take it. But for the busy worker raising a family, even 24 hours of respite can work wonders.
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On this day, put your phone on silent, grab a notebook and pen, and reflect on what brings you peace beyond money. Make the decision not to work beyond your pay grade. Commit to doing your job to the best of your ability within your contracted hours—nothing more, nothing less. Document any toxic interactions and keep a record of conversations via email.
Take your lunch breaks, prioritise your necessities, cut back on non-essential spending, and put aside a little money each month to treat yourself. Seek out moments of peace. Silence the noise and give yourself a chance to breathe.
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Of course, social and economic factors mean that some of us face tougher challenges than others. But it's essential to focus on what’s within your control. Use any extra time you gain to learn something new, elevate yourself, and be intentional about your future. Don't let the egos of those in power throw you off course. Instead, respectfully assert yourself and take your rightful place in this world.
Workplace wellbeing matters—don't let it be overshadowed.