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Most people know what they need to do to live healthier lives. The problem isn’t a lack of knowledge – the real challenge lies in changing behaviors. However, when we zoom out and look at working life, it becomes clear that the responsibility doesn’t rest solely with the individual. Companies play a crucial role in creating the conditions for sustainable habits and long-term employee health.
At Holistal, we strongly believe in the power of small changes – micro habits – for both individuals and organizations. Research and practice show that when leadership actively engages and prioritizes health, it creates a culture where employees feel supported and motivated to take better care of themselves.
Whose Responsibility is Employee Health?
Workplace health has long been a shared responsibility between employees and employers. Unfortunately, it’s rarely prioritized at the management level. Initiatives often take the form of short-term solutions – like wellness allowances or temporary health programs – instead of long-term strategies that support real behavioral change.
Research, however, shows that when companies truly commit to their employees’ health, something powerful happens:
• Employee motivation increase
• Sick leave decreases
• Productivity and engagement rise
To achieve this, a holistic approach is required, where the company provides the right support, tools, and, above all, active involvement from leadership.
Micro habits – A Key to Sustainable Change
Changing habits is challenging – for both individuals and organizations. That’s why micro habits are so effective. Instead of setting ambitious, large goals that often lead to disappointment, micro habits focus on small, consistent steps that make change possible and sustainable over time.
On an organizational level, micro habits can include:
• Leadership setting a good example – e.g., respecting downtime after work hours and limiting emails to work hours only.
• Introducing small, regular initiatives that encourage healthy behaviors, such as walking meetings or brief stress management exercises.
• Supporting employees in incorporating exercise during work hours – getting outside during the day significantly impacts stress levels.
On an individual level, micro habits could involve small changes like:
• Taking 5 minutes to reflect on the day before leaving work.
• Doing a short breathing exercise during a stressful workday.
• Standing for half of the workday (for those who can). Taking breaks with a healthy snack and staying hydrated.
Support from the Company is Crucial
Studies show that when company leadership actively supports employees, motivation and engagement increase significantly. It’s not just about offering resources but creating a culture where health and well-being are priorities.
At Holistal, we consistently see that the best results come from the combination of leadership engagement and the individual’s willingness to change. When companies move from words to action and employees feel supported in their daily lives, real behavioral changes occur – benefiting both the individual and the organization.
How Can Your Company Make Health a Priority?
The first step is to understand that change doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With the right focus on micro habits and genuine commitment from leadership, companies can build a culture where both employees and the organization thrive.
At Holistal, we help companies create sustainable solutions for employee health. By combining evidence-based methods with tailored tools, we help you make health a natural part of everyday life – for both individuals and organizations.
Contact us today to find out how we can help your company take the first steps toward a healthier, more engaged workplace. It starts with small changes – but together, we can create significant impact.
Want to Learn More About How Micro habits Can Benefit Your Employees and Company?
Reach out to us at Holistal. When health becomes a true priority, sustainable results are achieved that benefit everyone. Make health and sustainability a top priority for 2025.
Explore More:
Workshop on Micro habits;
(feel free to share within your organization):
Or listen to a podcast during your walk:
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