Money is a top source of anxiety for 80% of Americans, according to a 2008 Stress in America survey by the American Psychological Association. We’re worried about keeping our homes, our insurance, and our jobs.  This intense stress can knock even your most level-headed employees off track, leading to bad judgment and poor decisions. 

Your employees may turn to unhealthy behaviors like drinking, smoking, gambling and/or overeating to “escape” their worries, which leads to greater anxiety, depression, illness, absenteeism and money problems.  When your best people are in this kind of shape, it’s not just their problem, it’s yours. 

Providing employees with health and fitness tools combined with wellness programs to keep them resilient and able to think on their feet protects your bottom line. Company-wide walking programs provide social bonding and stress-relieving exercise.  Yoga and meditation classes offer a moment to “breathe” and re-assess.  Behavior modification specialists often offer corporate rate reductions.  Corporate cooking and nutrition classes are great teambuilding events that result in dinners at home and increased family time.

Change makes people uncomfortable.  Your employees may not realize that change presents opportunities for growth. Now ‘s the time for them to take advantage of company educational stipends. It’s a win-win situation that gives your people the edge. This is uncharted terrain for us all, but giving your best people the tools to regroup and step outside their comfort zone presents the most valuable learning opportunities which will, in turn, increase productivity and resiliency.