behavior change at work: 9 worksite wellness applications of self-determination theory
TRANSCRIPT
Theory At-a-Glance
Self-Determination Theory states that individuals are much more likely to
engage in positive behaviors over the long term when 3 conditions are met…
Building Competence
Offer regular lunch-and-learn events tied to real-world skills or knowledge.
Think outside the box and select topics that are interesting and relevant to employees.
For example, an expert on getting organized can give tips for reducing job-related stress
and achieving better work-life balance.
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Building Competence
Map out several walking routes around each office location.
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Accommodate schedules by providing route options that can be completed in 5, 15, and 30 minutes. Include indoor paths as well for days when an outdoor jaunt isn’t enticing
due to the weather. Finally, find creative ways to make the map fun and visually appealing.
Building Competence
Give positive encouragement and feedback at unexpected times.
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We all want reinforcement that we’re doing the right things (and doing them well). Each week, provide a small gift card to one employee and have them award it to a coworker that exhibits a healthy habit at the office during that week.
Fostering Self-Direction
Factor choice and flexibility into your wellness program.
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Autonomy is key for intrinsic motivation. Rather than rigid incentive designs that force
everyone down a defined path, consider adopting a points-based structure so individuals
can complete activities that are meaningful to them and their personal goals.
Fostering Self-Direction
Communicate as a friend –not as a parent.
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Being told you “have” to do something tends to diminish the desire to do that very thing.
Audit your wellness materials to scrub awaycontrolling language. Replace it with a warm,
conversational tone that emphasizes information, rationale, and value.
Fostering Self-Direction
Measure, adapt, refine (and repeat).
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Each employee is a customer of your wellness program. Hear firsthand what’s working and what needs improvement by conducting a robust annual satisfaction survey. Then, use this valuable data to make adjustments and experiment with new ideas year-over-year.
Connecting Support
Set several organization-wide goals to strive for during the year.
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Shared objectives unite people through teamwork and peer support. Provide context for each goal – and how it impacts the whole
company. Communicate regular updates on the progress made, as well as ways employees can contribute to success.
Connecting Support
Tap into the bonds of friends and family.
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Humans are social by nature, and your wellness program can take advantage of this.
Organize a company field day or bowling tournament that’s open to employees
and their loved ones. You’ll find that it not only boosts health – but morale, too.
Connecting Support
Crowdsource activities through a wellness champion network.
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Leverage wellness champions to generate grassroots enthusiasm for upcoming events.
Advise them on effective ways to mentor and cheer their coworkers’ efforts – as well as
helping individuals overcome barriers.
We spark real behavior change.
To learn more about Nurtur-LiveHealthier’s integrated health and wellness solutions
for large employers and health plans, visit www.NurturLiveHealthier.com.