5 tips for creating sustainable ways of working

If you’re an “average worker,” you spend 37.5% of your day at or on work — assuming you’re not working overtime, of course.

Since your job takes up such a large part of your life, it’s crucial that you actually feel good at your workplace.

That said…

The State of the Global Workplace: 2022 report — one of the largest global workplace studies — recently revealed some rather sobering statistics:

40% feel worried at some point during the workday
44% experience stress during the day
Only 21% feel engaged at work

Not exactly flattering numbers. And for employers, it’s pretty obvious — creating a stress-free and stimulating work environment is vital.

So, here are our 5 best tips for creating sustainable ways of working!

How do you do it?

Building a stimulating, safe, and sustainable environment takes effort — but don’t worry, it’s worth it.

Your Way of Work (WoW) should ideally be developed together, not just by management.

1. Define your “why,” vision, and mission

Clear goals and a shared vision are the foundation of a sustainable workplace.

Because honestly — how else are you going to build an engaged workforce?

And no… a sales competition is not the answer.

People need purpose. That’s why it’s essential to define yours together.

A common vision and mission that outline what you do and how you do it are absolutely key.

2. Take ownership of your internal communication

How do you communicate — and why?

A sustainable workflow includes a shared understanding of this.

Do you use email, chat, or calls? Where and how do you document your work?

Hybrid workplaces mainly use chat for direct, group, and project communication.

Decide where your conversations should happen — and stick to it.

3. Set expectations and boundaries

Stress caused by “notification anxiety” is common in most workplaces — but it’s also easily preventable.

Decide when to use asynchronous communication (messages that don’t require an immediate reply) and when to switch to synchronous communication (real-time conversations).

When expectations and boundaries are clear, stress levels drop — and you’ll avoid feeling constantly chased.

My advice? Let your notifications pile up and reply when it suits you.

4. Build culture and connection

A sustainable way of working includes work-life balance, strong company values, and above all — mutual respect.

“95% of people who are thriving at work report being treated with respect all day, and 87% report smiling and laughing a lot.”

— Jon Clifton, CEO, Gallup

Create a long-term culture that prioritizes employee wellbeing and sustainability.

5. Be hybrid

Unless you run an ice cream stand or another business where hybrid work simply doesn’t make sense — this one’s for you.

Design your hybrid workplace to give employees the best possible conditions for success.

Studies show that people who can work remotely, at least part of the time, feel better and are more productive.

So please — create a culture that doesn’t rely on everyone being in the same room.

The Result

Employees who feel good stay longer, are less likely to burn out, and are more productive.

By creating sustainable ways of working, you foster a safe, positive environment where people thrive.

As if that weren’t enough, data shows that companies with engaged employees are more profitable and enjoy stronger customer loyalty.

“Business units with engaged workers have 23% higher profit compared with those with miserable workers. Teams with thriving employees also experience significantly lower absenteeism, turnover, and accidents — and higher customer loyalty.”