The Importance of Digital Wellness

An important factor that has been taken into consideration in our "new normal" is digital wellness. This new strategy or balance has become a necessity for workers as a way to keep them motivated to keep working at the same performance level. 

Before the pandemic, well-being came from making a distinction between work and home. Now constant notifications, emails, meetings and staying inside are factors that affect the emotional state of workers, as mentioned in an article from Financial Express. The same article states that fear of missing out (FOMO), stress, mental illness, anxiety and lack of productivity are the hurdles people experience at home and at the new workplace. These elements do not only affect employees but the actual work being done, which could bring losses due to a lack of motivation and productivity. 

Before COVID-19, wellness programs at the workplace were limited to the physical and mental state. "Digital wellbeing" has become the most crucial nowadays, however, due to what is called Digital Overload, mentioned in a Worktech Academy article. "Some employees are now taking measures to mediate in technology habits among their staff by establishing guidelines and restrictions. Companies are also implementing "soft touch" software to encourage healthier technology habits as setting guidelines for employees to switch off is not enough." 

Jorge Ponga, Partner at Humanologo Consulting, mentioned in an MBN article that we are going through a "waiting room" moment in our lives. By this analogy, he is referring to a moment of doubt and fears that also has to do with what will happen next. He makes it clear that this is an opportunity to "explore aspects, such as agility, on a daily basis, quickly but assertively defining what I do and what I do not want my energy and time invested in."

There are many new ways to help with digital overload. These are the recommendations given by HR Technologist:

• There are many apps that can be used to manage times and efficiency. Messages between workers must not be discouraged, but these must be short and on a time frame that does not hoard personal time. 
• To generate greater engagement among employees, there have to be more specialized plans according to workers' needs. Digital programs can help with everyone's specifications. 
• Even though there is exhaustion from technology, it is a reality that apps are useful in times like this, not only to connect but also to check on employees. An example of this are wearable wellness apps that keep people informed on how they are doing and what they might need.