In the rapidly evolving landscape of workplace well-being, companies are recognizing the importance of adopting a holistic approach that focuses on the well-being of their employees. The recent Wellbeing Summit, organized by Benefit Systems, shed light on the current trends in employee benefits and well-being strategies, providing valuable insights into enhancing overall workplace satisfaction and efficiency.
Piotr Szostak, Managing Director of Strategy and Product Development at Benefit Systems, emphasized the significance of investing in a wide range of employee benefits tailored to individual needs. Addressing the attendees, he highlighted that companies aiming for a comprehensive improvement in employee well-being often invest in benefits that cater to various aspects of their lives.
One of the key themes explored during the summit was the concept of ‘microhabits’ as discussed by Dr. Ewa Hartman, a trainer and MBA lecturer. Dr. Hartman emphasized the importance of incorporating small, manageable challenges into daily routines to achieve personal and professional goals effectively. These microhabits, she explained, involve integrating low-effort activities into existing routines, making them easier to sustain over time. For instance, drinking a glass of water before morning coffee becomes a seamless habit, positively impacting one’s overall well-being.
The connection between nutrition and cognitive functions was highlighted by Jakub Mauricz, CEO of Mauricz Training Center. Mauricz emphasized that our dietary choices significantly influence various bodily processes, including brain function. He encouraged individuals to be mindful of their diet, stating that proper nutrition plays a crucial role in shaping brain health.
Mateusz Majchrzak, CEO of Na dobry sen, addressed the importance of sleep in managing stress and promoting mental well-being. He shared valuable insights on combating insomnia, suggesting techniques such as engaging in relaxing activities when unable to sleep. Majchrzak emphasized that quality sleep is essential, and individuals should prioritize healthy sleep patterns for overall well-being.
Natalia Hatalska, CEO of infuture.institute, underscored the individuality of well-being experiences. She emphasized that well-being cannot be simplified to a single factor but is a subjective and multifaceted concept. Hatalska highlighted the importance of considering context, as factors influencing well-being may vary during different circumstances, such as economic crises or pandemics.
The summit also delved into the overwhelming stimuli faced by individuals in the modern world. Paweł Kornosz, Director of Cafeteria Platforms at Benefit Systems, introduced MultiLife, a tool designed to simplify the well-being journey. MultiLife aims to provide comprehensive support encompassing physical and mental health, nutrition, and personal development. Kornosz highlighted the need to simplify life in the face of information overload and constant digital engagement.
Joanna Malinowska-Parzydło, CEO of HR Influencers, emphasized the foundational role of self-care in building organizational well-being. She stressed that personal well-being forms the basis for collective well-being within a company. Malinowska-Parzydło advocated for a strategic and long-term approach to well-being initiatives, encouraging individuals to invest in their spiritual and interpersonal growth.
The conference also explored the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on workplace dynamics. Bartek Pucek, CEO of Forward Operators AI Lab, discussed how AI-driven companies experience rapid growth in terms of valuation, productivity, and employee satisfaction. He envisioned a future where AI allows individuals more time to fulfill their needs, ultimately leading to increased happiness and well-being.
Additionally, the summit featured insights from renowned athletes such as Maja Włoszczowska, an Olympic silver medalist in mountain biking. Włoszczowska shared her mindset shift from feeling the pressure to succeed (‘I must’) to focusing on the desire and capability to perform (‘I want,’ ‘I can’). This change in perspective, she explained, enabled her to achieve a state of flow, reducing stress and enhancing her performance.