Workplace Wellness Highlights: 2024 Year-End Recap & Top Strategies
As we close out the year, we wanted to reflect on how the topics, strategies, and experiences shared throughout the fall have impacted our Jeddy Wellness community. The best part about what we do at Jeddy – and as advocates for workplace wellness, is to hear from those embracing our content and growing with us.
This season, we invited our ambassadors (Natasha, Furkhan, Jason and Kanchan) and the expansive LinkedIn community to join us for a first-of-its-kind audio session- recapping the favorite fall takeaways and reflecting on our habits.
The opening question, although intended for fun, ended up setting the precedent for much of the rest of the session: “What is your default worst/ bad habit when you are stressed out?”
The resounding response was needing to detach (otherwise said as “overwork to a fault”), and then resorting to endless scrolling through social media (otherwise said as “doom scrolling”).
Workplace Wellness Strategies You Need to Try
1️⃣ The DRAMMA Model for Recovery
We circled back around through each ambassador and a few audience member’s favorite tools from the fall blogs. The DRAMMA model found in September’s blog was the most utilized across the board, due to the strong need for detachment It’s a powerful approach to managing stress and recovering during workdays. The model encourages strategic pauses to reduce cognitive stress and reset the mind. The DRAMMA acronym stands for:
- Detachment
- Relaxation
- Autonomy
- Mastery
- Meaning
- Affiliation
Each element is designed to meet human needs and aid in recovery. These six strategies not only reduce the psychological effects of overwork but also enhance productivity, creativity, and fulfillment. Watch this video explaining DRAMMA.
2️⃣ The Importance of Social Support
Social support and connection with others are other crucial factors in and out of the workplace. It is a small part of the DRAMMA model (Affiliation), but a much larger piece of each balanced individual and work environment. Conversation with others makes us feel understood, builds resilience, and aids in developing our sense of purpose. The key to any conversation, regardless of how short it may be, is to make it meaningful by being fully present.
In October’s blog, the FITT Model—Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type—was introduced as a framework for fostering meaningful connections. By focusing on the quality and structure of interactions, workplaces can create stronger, more supportive environments.
3️⃣ Embracing Flexibility
In November, we explored three key types of flexibility that employees value most:
- Location Flexibility: Remote work reduces commuting stress and supports a lifestyle centered on mental health and family time—especially vital for Millennials balancing work and caregiving.
- Leave Flexibility: Stigma-free personal or family leave allows employees to handle responsibilities without jeopardizing their careers.
- Schedule Flexibility: Freedom to work when most productive helps employees balance work with side projects, fitness routines, and other passions, fostering overall well-being.
4️⃣ Prioritizing Sleep
During our live discussion, the question about how to improve sleep came up. Amid all the strategies, the simplest one often overlooked is sleep. Quality rest enhances focus, improves decision-making, and reduces burnout. Incorporating sleep hygiene education into workplace wellness programs remains essential for employee health and performance.
5️⃣ How to use P.L.A.Y this holiday season for your wellness
As we wrap up the year and prepare for the festive season, let’s focus on wellness strategies that bring joy and balance to the holidays. Here’s a simple framework P.L.A.Y to help you thrive during this bustling time.
- P – Positive Social Interactions: Surround yourself with uplifting people (high quality connections)
- L – Laughter: Incorporate humor into your daily routine to relieve stress.
- A – Accountability: Set realistic goals and find an accountability buddy.
- Y – You: Prioritize your well-being with sleep, movement, and mindful eating.
By incorporating P.L.A.Y into your routine, you’ll not only enjoy the holidays but also set the stage for a healthier, happier start to the new year.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As 2025 unfolds, Jeddy Wellness will continue to innovate and adapt to the shifting workplace landscape. Whether you’re a manager, leader, or professional, you can look forward to actionable insights, supportive tools, and opportunities to foster meaningful change in your workplace and beyond.
The holidays are a perfect time to reflect on your values and set goals for the new year that align. The ambassadors suggested that this could include being intentional with who you spend your time with, practicing affirmations and good habits for yourself, and listening to what your body and your mind need. Gearing up for the new year begins far before it starts, and we have all the tools to start it off strong.
Happy Holidays!
Written By: Hannah Nease and Sumana Jeddy
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