The Missing Link in Workplace Wellbeing
Gallup’s latest findings reveal a striking, but sadly not surprising truth: only 21% of employees strongly feel their organization cares about their wellbeing.
This statistic isn’t just concerning—it’s a wake-up call. The truth is we’ve been approaching wellbeing initiatives from the wrong starting point.
Data from the SHIFT Leadership Assessment, drawing insights from nearly 100 leaders, points to a critical finding: workplace security must come first. Without it, even the most robust wellbeing programs are unlikely to move the needle.
The Security-Wellbeing Connection
Organizations often rush to implement wellness programs, apps, and perks, but they frequently fall flat. Why? Because they’re built on a shaky foundation. The real issue lies beneath the surface: a lack of workplace security. If people don’t feel safe—emotionally, psychologically, or professionally—they simply won’t feel well. Security and wellbeing are inseparably linked; without the former, the latter cannot truly take root.
Moving Beyond "Carewashing"
Gallup warns of “carewashing”—offering surface-level solutions while ignoring deeper systemic issues. I couldn’t agree more. SHIFT data identifies several pillars of security that organizations often overlook:
Psychological Safety: Employees need to feel safe to express themselves without fear of retribution.
Clear Accountability: Transparent systems that foster trust and fairness are critical.
Protected Spaces: Authentic dialogue requires secure, judgment-free zones.
Leadership Self-Awareness & Self-Regulation: Leaders must reflect on their impact and remain open to growth.
Intentional Action: Real change comes from deliberate, consistent efforts.
How Security Drives Holistic Wellbeing
When organizations prioritize security, they set the stage for success across multiple domains of workplace wellbeing:
Horizon: Fostering Growth Mindset
Employees feel safe taking developmental risks.
Mistakes are seen as opportunities to learn, not failures.
Career growth conversations flow more naturally.
Innovation takes root in a culture of safety.
Impact: Promoting Meaningful Action
Employees share ideas for improvement without holding back.
Feedback is a tool for growth, not a weapon.
Teams take on ambitious projects with confidence.
Achievements are celebrated without the fear of not measuring up.
Fluidity: Enabling Adaptability
Teams respond to change with resilience instead of resistance.
Work-life boundaries are respected and openly discussed.
Flexibility becomes empowering rather than anxiety-inducing.
Challenges are met with confidence, not chaos.
Ties: Building Strong Relationships
Authentic connections between employees emerge naturally.
Collaboration replaces competition as the norm.
Support networks form organically, strengthening team dynamics.
Diversity is not only welcomed but celebrated.
Bridging the Gap: A New Priority for Wellbeing
Gallup outlines three essential steps for wellbeing strategies, but the results findings suggest adding a fourth:
Establish Security First
Create environments of psychological safety.
Build accountability systems rooted in fairness.
Ensure spaces for genuine, honest dialogue.
With this foundation in place, organizations can effectively:
Assess current systems and resources.
Expand wellbeing strategies.
Embed coaching conversations that resonate.
The Takeaway
Without a strong foundation of workplace security, even the most well-meaning wellbeing initiatives risk being dismissed as superficial “carewashing.” Security isn’t just another box to check—it’s what makes real, lasting wellbeing possible.
If people don’t feel safe—emotionally, psychologically, or professionally—they simply can’t feel well. To truly thrive, employees need to operate within their window of tolerance, the zone where they feel calm, clear, connected, collaborative, and confident. Security creates the conditions where employees can remain in that optimal zone, unlocking their full potential and enabling genuine wellbeing.
When organizations put security first, wellbeing initiatives are more likely to be:
Trusted by employees.
Fully embraced and utilized.
Successfully implemented.
Truly impactful.
Security isn’t about safeguarding employees—it’s about creating the environment where people can consistently feel and do their best.