We all need a pick-me-up right about now. We’re blazing through the Fall and it seems like 2020 will never be over… and wow, what a year. A pandemic, economic decline, digital migration — the list of stressors goes on and on. 

All the while, we’ve made it this far, and we’ll continue pushing forward. In the middle of all this, it’s important to think about how you and your team are holding up. It’s a hard time for everyone and their families right now. 

A study conducted at the introduction of the pandemic noted that 42% of respondents had a decline in their mental health as a result of COVID. This isn’t good news for business, company culture, or success. 

Why Mental Health is So Important

From a business standpoint, positive mental health is a must for maximizing everything. You and your team won’t be able to put in your best if all your minds are muddled with worries, nor will you be able to clear the to-do list with ease if everyone isn’t motivated. 

Happiness, relaxation, and flow are necessary drivers of creativity and execution — this will translate into productivity and growth. Good and positive attitudes shape your brand culture and help make your company vibrant and exciting. 

In a nutshell, how you and your team is doing is how your business is doing. As we navigate uncertainty, everyone needs to be supporting themselves and their team’s wellbeing more than ever before. 

Real Estate Leading the Future of Health and Wellness 

This global focus on health and wellness is being directly translated into the physical space of buildings. 

The actual commercial buildings will be responsible for activating many of the ‘new normals’ that have been ushered in on the coattails of COVID. Safety protocols, Smart technology integrations, HVAC filter systems, and contactless navigation are all redefining real estate’s physical spaces. 

For all of us, it’s our buildings that will be supporting the health of the team. But, it won’t just be about shaping an antiseptic environment. Designing comforting, productive, and wellness-oriented spaces will be key for supporting you and your team’s overall wellness. 

3 Tips for Supporting You and Your Team 

Here are a few rapid-fire ideas on how to support wellness right now: 

Open Up a Channel of Communication

A great rule of thumb is to communicate more than you think you have to. Team leaders should be reaching out constantly, inquiring to see if anyone needs anything, or if anyone just needs to talk. Remember, we are all human. 

Invest in Natural Lighting 

A straightforward and effective way to benefit your team’s wellbeing is with natural light. Even if you’re not yet back in the office, investing in a design plan to maximize natural lighting within the space will reap benefits for the team and your business. Plus, this is a great tip for CRE property owners, as natural lighting has been known to fuel higher rents and stronger leasing. 

Why do we always love a good sunrise? 

Check-In Often 

Before you kick off those weekly meetings, start by asking your team how they’re doing — people just want to feel heard — we’re not robots. Open up the floor for sharing, questions, and comments before diving into the scheduled material. After all, you won’t be able to help your people if you don’t know what’s going on. 

Use these tips to help you and your team be (and feel) their best right now.