<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>mental health at work Archives - Braving Boundaries</title> <atom:link href="https://bravingboundaries.com/tag/mental-health-at-work/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/tag/mental-health-at-work/</link> <description>PROFESSIONAL LIFE COACHING & TRAINING</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:49:46 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-ZA</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <image> <url>https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Asset-1.svg</url> <title>mental health at work Archives - Braving Boundaries</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/tag/mental-health-at-work/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>The End-of-Year Crunch is Always Nuts! Part II – Especially for Teams</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/the-end-of-year-crunch-is-always-nuts-part-ii-especially-for-teams/</link> <comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/the-end-of-year-crunch-is-always-nuts-part-ii-especially-for-teams/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:05:06 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category> <category><![CDATA[braving boundaries]]></category> <category><![CDATA[burnout prevention]]></category> <category><![CDATA[communication]]></category> <category><![CDATA[corporate wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[employee engagement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[end-of-year stress]]></category> <category><![CDATA[leadership]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health at work]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mindful working]]></category> <category><![CDATA[team performance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[team wellbeing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[workplace culture]]></category> <category><![CDATA[year-end planning]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/?p=235421</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-end-of-year-crunch-is-always-nuts-part-ii-especially-for-teams/">The End-of-Year Crunch is Always Nuts! Part II – Especially for Teams</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_0 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_0"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_0 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h5><strong><span style="color: #be9727;"><em>WRITTEN BY ALICIA KOCH, FOUNDER OF <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a style="color: #be9727; text-decoration: underline;" href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">THE LEGAL BELLETRIST</a></span> </em></span></strong></h5> <p> </p> <p class="p1"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="bravingboundaries.com/the-end-of-year-crunch-is-always-nuts-part-i-especially-for-individuals">Click here for Part I: The End-of-Year Crunch is Always Nuts – Especially for individuals …</a></span></p> <p> </p> <p class="p1">Just as it is in our personal lives, the end-of-year rush takes hold at work too. As deadlines tighten, budgets close and projects demand wrapping up, teams everywhere find themselves hurtling toward December with little time to rest. The pace quickens, expectations rise and even the most cohesive teams can begin to feel the strain.</p> <p class="p1">In theory, this should be the season for celebration: a chance to recognise collective achievements and enjoy the camaraderie built over the year. Yet, more often than not, it becomes a blur of back-to-back meetings, last-minute deliverables and frantic attempts to “get everything done before the holidays”. The joy of teamwork gives way to the tyranny of ticking boxes.</p> <p class="p1">Perfection takes priority over presence and connection is lost in the noise of productivity. The focus shifts from collaboration to completion, leaving even the strongest teams drained and disconnected.</p> <p class="p1">This time of year doesn’t have to be about survival. With a more mindful and intentional approach, teams can finish the year with focus, appreciation and energy, not exhaustion. It’s about swapping stress for strategy and rediscovering the meaning behind working <i>together</i>.</p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_1 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>Preparing for year-end pressures</strong></h2></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_0"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Athletes-Ready-at-the-Starting-Blocks-by-Aflo-Images-from-アフロ（Aflo）.jpg" alt="Athletes Ready at the Starting Blocks by Aflo Images from アフロ（Aflo）" title="Athletes Ready at the Starting Blocks by Aflo Images from アフロ（Aflo）" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_2 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1"><strong>How teams can prepare for the end of the year silliness</strong></p> <p class="p1">Year-end pressures can be overwhelming for both leaders and teams. Here are some ways to mitigate the stress and maintain well-being –</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_1 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_1 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_1"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/1.png" alt="" title="1" class="wp-image-1486" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_2 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_3 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Setting clear expectations and workload management</strong></p> <p> </p> <ul class="ul1"> <li class="li1"><b>Communicate targets realistically –</b> define achievable end-of-year goals (yes be realistic) and deadlines without creating an overwhelming workload (because that would defeat the purpose, wouldn’t it?).</li> <li class="li1"><b>Prioritise tasks –</b> focus on tasks with the highest impact and delegate or postpone others if at all possible. Learn to say no, prioritise and ask for help.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Break down large projects –</b> divide major tasks into smaller, manageable milestones to maintain momentum and avoid burnout. After all, this is the end of the year, set your tasks at an achievable level. Tackle the most important things first. Leave the rest, if you can, until the New Year.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Allocate tasks fairly –</b> distribute responsibilities based on individual capacity and capabilities to ensure no one is overloaded, overwhelmed and stressed out. It’s their end of the year too. Remember that.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Plan in advance –</b> look at the calendar and determine resource needs, potential flexibility options and celebration plans before the busy season begins.</li> </ul></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_2 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_3 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_2"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2.png" alt="" title="2" class="wp-image-1487" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_4 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_4 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Protecting boundaries</strong><b></b></p> <p> </p> <ul class="ul1"> <li class="li1"><b>Encourage employees to set boundaries –</b> leaders should encourage and commend employees for establishing their own boundaries and model this behaviour themselves. Lead by example as they say.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Communicate boundaries clearly – </b>employees should define and communicate their work hours and availability to colleagues and clients, clearly but politely. Sometimes a firm word is required.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Practice saying no –</b> learn to politely decline tasks that exceed capacity and bandwidth. You matter too.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Disconnect after hours –</b> encourage employees to unplug from work-related communications during off-hours. Unless it’s life threatening, after-hours should be sacrosanct.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Seek support –</b> employees should feel comfortable discussing their workload and seeking help from managers or colleagues if they are overwhelmed. Delegation is important and sometimes very necessary. Leaders and employees must be open to this.</li> </ul></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_3"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_5 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_3"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Word-Unplug-White-Internet-Usb-Adapter-on-Moss-Green-Grass-Background.-Top-View.-Copy-Space.-Banner.-Biophilia-Concept.-Nature-Backdrop-by-Yuliia-Chyzhevska.jpg" alt="Word Unplug, White Internet Usb Adapter on Moss, Green Grass Background. Top View. Copy Space. Banner. Biophilia Concept. Nature Backdrop by Yuliia Chyzhevska" title="Word Unplug, White Internet Usb Adapter on Moss, Green Grass Background. Top View. Copy Space. Banner. Biophilia Concept. Nature Backdrop by Yuliia Chyzhevska" class="wp-image-235447" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_4 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_6 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_4"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/3.jpg" alt="" title="3" class="wp-image-1488" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_7 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_5 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Creating space for reflection and closure</strong><b></b></p> <p> </p> <ul class="ul1"> <li class="li1"><b>Encourage breaks and downtime –</b> regular breaks throughout the workday and during the holiday season are essential for recharging and maintaining focus. It’s no longer a bum on seats scenario and burning the midnight oil is so old school. We have moved beyond that now and recognise that burnout is real. Downtime is, in fact, necessary.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Promote self-care –</b> encourage practices such as adequate sleep, healthy eating, exercise and mindfulness techniques.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Reflect on the year’s successes and challenges –</b> before the break, leaders and teams can reflect on achievements, lessons learned and areas for improvement, helping to build momentum for the new year.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Celebrate wins –</b> acknowledge and celebrate achievements, both big and small, to boost morale and engagement.</li> <li class="li1"><b>Recharge intentionally –</b> take time to rest and reset to ensure a refreshed start to the New Year.</li> </ul></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_5"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_8 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_6 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">The end of the year doesn’t have to feel like a mad dash to the finish. With a bit of planning, clearer priorities and a few well-placed “no’s”, it can be a time to thrive rather than merely survive.</p> <p class="p1">In the workplace, that means creating a culture that supports people; one that values wellbeing as much as performance. Open, honest communication is vital. Speak up when you’re stretched, ask for help, delegate where you can and support one another through the crunch.</p> <p class="p1">If you or your team could use some guidance navigating this busy season, reach out to Frieda Levycky at <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/"><span class="s1">Braving Boundaries</span></a>. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is ask for help, whatever time of year it may be.</p> <p class="p1"><i>(Sources used and to whom we owe thanks – </i><a href="https://www.gouldtraining.co.uk/topics/assertiveness/setting-boundaries/boundaries-at-work" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1"><i>Gould Training</i></span></a><i>; LinkedIn </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/navigating-year-end-pressures-finding-balance-amid-di-dia-pcc-szzce/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1"><i>here</i></span></a><i> and </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/manage-year-end-stress-go-q1-strong-approach-miller-caton-jr-mrmhf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1"><i>here</i></span></a><i> and </i><a href="https://amazingbusiness.com/6-ways-to-thrive-through-the-end-of-year-craziness/#:~:text=It%2520is%2520that%2520time%2520of,I%2520could%2520enjoy%2520this%2520time." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1"><i>Amazing Business</i></span></a><i>).<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_5"> <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Revised-Corporate-Services-Brochure-2025.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="810" height="450" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/End-of-blog-post-CTA-image.jpg" alt="End of blog post CTA image (5)" title="End of blog post CTA image" class="wp-image-235400" /></span></a> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_divider et_pb_divider_0 et_pb_divider_position_bottom et_pb_space"><div class="et_pb_divider_internal"></div></div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_6 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_9 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_6"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Alicia-Koch-The-Legal-Belletrist.jpg" alt="" title="Alicia Koch - The Legal Belletrist" class="wp-image-1704" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_10 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_7 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner">About the Author, <strong><em>Alicia Koch, Founder of The Legal Belletrist.</em></strong> Alicia, an admitted attorney with over 10 years PQE, and now a legal writer and researcher, has established The Legal Belletrist to assist companies (in different sectors) to write well-researched articles that speak to each company’s core business, enabling growth and commercialism.</p> <p>Click here to visit <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist website</a>. <strong>Email: <a href="mailto:alicia@thebelletrist.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alicia@thebelletrist.com</a> </strong></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-end-of-year-crunch-is-always-nuts-part-ii-especially-for-teams/">The End-of-Year Crunch is Always Nuts! Part II – Especially for Teams</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://bravingboundaries.com/the-end-of-year-crunch-is-always-nuts-part-ii-especially-for-teams/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Beyond Wellness Hours: Why Teams Need Real Training Time</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/</link> <comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:59:23 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Corporate Wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Effective communication]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Team building]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Team communication]]></category> <category><![CDATA[work-life balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[coaching]]></category> <category><![CDATA[continuous learning]]></category> <category><![CDATA[corporate training]]></category> <category><![CDATA[corporate wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[employee development]]></category> <category><![CDATA[employee happiness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[leadership training]]></category> <category><![CDATA[learning culture]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health at work]]></category> <category><![CDATA[team growth]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wellbeing at work]]></category> <category><![CDATA[workplace engagement]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/?p=235389</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/">Beyond Wellness Hours: Why Teams Need Real Training Time</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_1 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_7"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_11 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_8 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h5><strong><span style="color: #be9727;"><em>WRITTEN BY ALICIA KOCH, FOUNDER OF <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a style="color: #be9727; text-decoration: underline;" href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">THE LEGAL BELLETRIST</a></span> </em></span></strong></h5> <p><strong><span style="color: #be9727;"><em></em></span></strong></p> <p class="p1">Ah wellness.</p> <p class="p1">We often take it for granted, don’t we? Like it’s this “thing” that needs to be constantly maintained. Another “task” or item on your to-do list that you need to take care of.</p> <p class="p1">So, when the company you work for provides activities, resources and screenings to support your and your colleague’s health, you are relieved that it’s one less thing you have to worry about. </p> <p class="p1">Sure, the goal of these activities is to help employees recharge, decompress from stress and return to work feeling more productive and engaged, but you often wonder whether one wellness day every couple of months is really going to cut it.</p> <p class="p1">Let’s be honest here, is one day of yoga or one day of mindfulness sessions really going to bridge the gap between feeling fulfilled and at peace with your work environment and working to your full potential? Or do you need something a little more concrete? A little more permanent? A little more constant?</p> <p class="p1">Let’s take a look, shall we?</p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_9 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>Learning Is a Sure-Fire Path to Happiness: And Science Proves It</strong></h2></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_7"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Learning-by-shironosov-from-Getty-Images-Pro.jpg" alt="Learning by shironosov from Getty Images Pro" title="Learning by shironosov from Getty Images Pro" class="wp-image-235404" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_10 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">The title from an article that appeared in <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2021/10/17/learning-is-a-sure-path-to-happiness-science-proves-it/?sh=8d93468768e3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">Forbes</span></a> talks about how learning empowers you – which is 100% true.</p> <p class="p1">While happiness arises when we are generous, grateful and connected with our people, research suggests that another path towards happiness is learning, growing and challenging ourselves in new ways – all of which results in us thriving.</p> <p class="p1">This can be translated to both our work lives and our personal lives. Thriving tends to occur when we experience success, but also when we are continually developing our skills and capabilities.</p> <p class="p1">Why is learning so important to happiness and thriving? What is it about learning that makes it a key ingredient of joy and achievement? There are multiple studies which demonstrate the relationship between learning and thriving and how these can increase happiness. Here are some of the outcomes –</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_8 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_12 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_8"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/1.png" alt="" title="1" class="wp-image-1486" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_13 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_11 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Self-Determination </strong>– we all crave choice and want to feel like we have some control over our lives and futures. Learning is frequently oriented toward self-determination. Some roles or companies may require certain learning, but many times learning is the result of pursuing your own interests and goals. No matter what the learning involved entails, it has the potential to open doors or provide options for growth that are uniquely interesting to you.</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_9 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_14 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_9"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2.png" alt="" title="2" class="wp-image-1487" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_15 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_12 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Self-Confidence </strong>– learning can also be a source of self-confidence or likability. When you know more, you can contribute your perspectives and expertise and ask questions about others’ points of view that build on a solid foundation of your own knowledge. Your expanding capabilities can provide you with skills which help you contribute confidently to your current and future success.</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_10 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_16 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_10"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/3.jpg" alt="" title="3" class="wp-image-1488" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_17 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_13 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Resilience and Motivation</strong><i> – </i>learning also helps to build resilience. How you may ask? Well, learning requires you to admit that you don’t know everything. It also requires you to try something new and fill in gaps of information. So, both resilience and motivation. Fascinating research at the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0896627314008046" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">University of California Davis</span></a> also finds that curiosity helps your brain remain more open to additional learning and this openness helps you remember new information and cement memories. </p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_11"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_18 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_11"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Resilient-Flower-in-Arid-Landscape.-by-Gemini-studio.jpg" alt="Resilient Flower in Arid Landscape. by Gemini studio" title="Resilient Flower in Arid Landscape. by Gemini studio" class="wp-image-235403" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_12 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_19 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_12"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/4.png" alt="" title="4" class="wp-image-1489" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_20 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_14 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Broadened Perspective</strong><i> – </i>when you learn new things, you also expand your horizons. Greater perspective is linked to experiences of happiness and joy. No matter what you’re studying, you gain a new view and extend your knowledge of the world. This broader view of others, of the world, of circumstances and of possibilities. Brings about greater happiness.</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_13 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_21 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_13"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/5.png" alt="" title="5" class="wp-image-1490" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_22 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_15 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Health and Happiness</strong><i> – </i>a study between Oxford University and the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17533015.2016.1193550" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">Workers Educational Association</span></a> of England and Scotland finds when people participate in classes outside of work, they improve their mental and physical health and report greater satisfaction with their lives. According to a study by <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10902-009-9166-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">San Francisco State University</span></a>, those who engage in formal education experience greater happiness and life satisfaction overall.</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_14"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_23 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_16 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">So, learning – in whatever form it takes – on a regular basis has been proven to have a positive impact on overall wellbeing, happiness and confidence. It also helps you further your career.</p> <p class="p1">One would say that those are a lot of positives, as far as ongoing learning is concerned.</p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_17 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>So, are ad hoc wellness days enough? </strong></h2></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_18 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">We have already established two things –</p> <ol class="ol1"> <li class="li1">Wellness days offered by companies are intended to help employees recharge, decompress from stress and return to work feeling more productive and engaged; and </li> <li class="li1">Thriving in life and in work is a result of (amongst other things) continually developing our skills and capabilities. In continually learning.</li> </ol> <p class="p1">If we accept the above two points as fact, it makes sense that one wellness day every now and again is not enough. Companies should invest in scheduled, structured training days which seem to be essential for long-term team development, genuine behaviour change and sustainable workplace wellbeing.</p> <p class="p1">If a company is curious about what they will “get out of it,” here is a list of key benefits of employee training and how it can transform their workforce.</p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_19 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>10 Key Benefits of Employee Training</strong></h2></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_14"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Happy-business-team-at-corporate-training-team-building-activity-diverse-employees-group.-by-Jovanmandic-from-Getty-Images.jpg" alt="Happy business team at corporate training, team building activity, diverse employees group. by Jovanmandic from Getty Images" title="Happy business team at corporate training, team building activity, diverse employees group. by Jovanmandic from Getty Images" class="wp-image-235405" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_20 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><ol class="ol1"> <li class="li1"><strong>Increased performance </strong>– Knowledge changes fast. Continuous learning keeps teams sharp, confident and capable. Companies that invest in professional development see better results, productivity and innovation.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>A stronger workforce </strong>– Employees no longer stay just for the pay cheque. They stay where they can grow. Ongoing training helps attract, retain and inspire top talent.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Fewer costly mistakes </strong>– Well-trained teams make fewer errors, saving time and money while improving safety, efficiency and overall quality.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Alignment with company goals</strong> – Prioritising learning shows that growth and adaptability matter. It strengthens trust, loyalty and shared values across generations.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Motivation and engagement </strong>– Learning fuels purpose and self-belief. When people feel challenged and supported, they’re more creative, energised and willing to take ownership.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Knowledge sharing</strong> – Open access to training breaks down silos, encourages empathy and helps teams understand each other’s challenges and goals.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>More innovation</strong> – A culture of learning naturally sparks curiosity and experimentation. When people feel empowered, new ideas follow.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Better processes</strong> – Skilled employees spend less time firefighting and more time improving systems, experiences and performance.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>A stronger brand </strong>– Investing in people builds reputation from the inside out. It positions your company as one that values growth, inclusion and excellence.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Competitive edge</strong> – Training your people is cheaper and smarter than constantly hiring new ones. Cross-training builds flexibility, resilience and long-term success.</li> </ol></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_21 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">With that, we have set out the benefits that ongoing training has for the individual as well as what scheduled, structured training days has for the company.</p> <p class="p1">A happier and more well-adjusted, confident employee and a company that has a staff contingent that is engaged, that shares knowledge freely amongst the different teams, that’s open to and welcomes innovation and that makes less errors.</p> <p class="p1">Of course, wellness days are good (don’t get us wrong), but ongoing training and development is better.</p> <p class="p1">It’s about investing in the assets of your company. Those assets are your employees and when it comes to investment, the employee/employer relationship is reciprocal. If employees feel that their company is investing in them, they will return that investment with excellent work and a positive culture. When employees have more than just access to training and knowledge, it will not only create a culture of learning that will help employees enjoy their work more, but it will also better equip them to manage unexpected events.</p> <p class="p1">So, from where we’re sitting – it’s an easy decision.</p> <p class="p2"><i>(Sources used and to whom we owe thanks – </i><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2021/10/17/learning-is-a-sure-path-to-happiness-science-proves-it/?sh=8d93468768e3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1"><i>Forbes</i></span></a><i> and </i><a href="https://www.continu.com/blog/employee-training-benefits#:~:text=Discover%2520the%2520key%2520benefits%2520of,Training%2520From%2520the%2520Employee's%2520Perspective" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1"><i>Continu</i></span></a><i>). </i></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_15"> <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Revised-Corporate-Services-Brochure-2025.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="810" height="450" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/End-of-blog-post-CTA-image.jpg" alt="End of blog post CTA image (5)" title="End of blog post CTA image" class="wp-image-235400" /></span></a> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_divider et_pb_divider_1 et_pb_divider_position_bottom et_pb_space"><div class="et_pb_divider_internal"></div></div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_15 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_24 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_16"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Alicia-Koch-The-Legal-Belletrist.jpg" alt="" title="Alicia Koch - The Legal Belletrist" class="wp-image-1704" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_25 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_22 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner">About the Author, <strong><em>Alicia Koch, Founder of The Legal Belletrist.</em></strong> Alicia, an admitted attorney with over 10 years PQE, and now a legal writer and researcher, has established The Legal Belletrist to assist companies (in different sectors) to write well-researched articles that speak to each company’s core business, enabling growth and commercialism.</p> <p>Click here to visit <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist website</a>. <strong>Email: <a href="mailto:alicia@thebelletrist.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alicia@thebelletrist.com</a> </strong></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/">Beyond Wellness Hours: Why Teams Need Real Training Time</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>