Stress levels have reached a new height since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. However, even before the pandemic, workers were already struggling with work-related stress. Nature can help relieve stress, but it can also help workers feel more inspired, creative, and connected at work.
As more companies announce plans to allow their employees to work remotely, workers will have more opportunity to take advantage of the power of nature. According to data from the APM Research lab, Americans do not spend enough time in nature, in large part, due to work.
To encourage workers to spend more time in nature now that they work remotely, managers need to allow for more flexibility around the structure of the workday. Flexibility in work schedules means that employees can take advantage of good weather to go outside, regardless of their location.
Another strategy to encourage workers to spend outdoors is to prevent the “always on” culture at work. By allowing, and encouraging, workers to disconnect from work. Last but not least, managers need to lead by example.
