With the new year quickly approaching, everyone begins to think of their New Year’s resolutions.  Some will give up sugary foods or try to stop a bad habit while others will commit to a new exercise program or weight loss goal.  Whatever the resolution happens to be, it is usually made in hopes of becoming a better you.  Why not make a resolution for healthier habits that extend to the workplace as well as at home?


To start off the new year with a ‘healthier you’ focus, there are several things you can incorporate into your workday to achieve this goal.  Whether it be packing healthy snacks to keep at your workstation for when that sugar craving hits or taking a fresh air break a couple of times a day to refocus and recharge your mind.  One of the most effective ways to boost productivity and re-energize is to get up and move even if for only a few minutes at a time.

Staying in one position for extended periods of time has been shown to be a risk factor for serious illnesses that may have long lasting side effects.  By making small changes, such as changing positions, taking a quick walking break at least once an hour throughout the day and utilizing lunch hours for a quick walk around the block, can not only cut down on these risks but improve your mood and productivity.

What can we do in the workplace to get employees up and moving throughout the day without disrupting the workflow?

• Vary where you complete your work tasks throughout the floor plan so you can change positions frequently
• Walk over to someone’s desk vs sending an email to your colleagues
• Use the stairs instead of the elevator
• Set a reminder to stand up every hour for a few minutes or more
• Encourage employees to eat lunch away from their desks
• If company policies and budgets allow, utilize a HON Coordinate height adjustable base with any of our worksurfaces or a desktop riser so you can easily sit or stand throughout the day
• Park your car further away from the door or walk/bike to and from work if you are local
• Have a quick stand-up meeting in a common area vs a sit down in a conference room
• Stroll throughout the office space while taking phone calls

Whatever you decide to do, it's easy to make a commitment to becoming a healthier you in 2018. Our bodies were not designed to sit still for hours at a time and these simple steps can have a huge impact on your overall wellbeing.  Make a resolution this new year to get up and move by implementing small changes throughout your workday.  You are worth it!