The Hub Focusing on workplace wellness
Professional Development with PowerED

Focusing on workplace wellness

After pandemic burnout and stress, workplace wellness a growing priority for workers and organizations

With the holidays fast approaching and the new year’s resolutions we always set—but only sometimes stick to–Ian Stephenson, interim manager of PowerED™ by Athabasca University, joined CTV Morning Live to discuss how employees and employers can focus more on workplace wellness. 

What is workplace wellness?

Stephenson explained that the COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult to define wellness.

“Many folks are adjusting to either not having a separate work life and home life, or are balancing that return to in-person work,” he said.

“Workplace wellness really just means a workplace that enhances and supports an employee’s ability to thrive whatever that may look like.”

This has created opportunities for employers to redefine what that means for their employees. “We have seen a rise in the need for flexibility, and PowerED’s online curriculum helps provide that,” he said.


RELATED: 3 ways to increase your productivity at work


young woman studying with a laptop computer in a home.

Work-life balance

PowerED™ offers workplace wellness micro-courses on topics including purposeful goal setting, allyship and inclusion, and digital wellness.

“Minimizing distractions, cultivating a supportive environment, and recognizing when we need a break may help improve our focus and engagement and increase our chances of future success,” Stephenson said.

He also discussed how PowerED™ developed Allyship and Inclusion, a micro-course built to provide professional learners and their organizations with the first step toward embracing diversity and building an inclusive workplace.


RELATED: How to promote allyship at work


Stephenson noted that paying attention to your workplace wellness will help prevent the dreaded buzzword: burnout.  

Things like frequent virtual meetings, too much exposure to blue light, digital clutter, and even snubbing the folks around you by paying too much attention to your phone can impact both your digital and mental health and well-being.


frustrated woman using laptop

Setting boundaries

When it comes to setting boundaries, Stephenson mentioned that finding a balance and remaining flexible is key.  

“Recognizing when to take time to adjust, reset and take that extra break to stay focused on the things that have become critical for our success moving forward,” he said.

PowerED™ by Athabasca University offers a number of courses for working professionals at all stages of their careers. If you’re looking to become a more productive, efficient, and confident manager or executive, the Essential Skills for Leaders Certificate is a great place to start.

Learn more about Workplace Wellness with PowerED™

Published:
  • November 29, 2022