Is your team psychologically prepared for the New Year? Here’s how to ensure they are….

As we navigate through the first month of the year, it’s crucial to recognise the diverse emotions that January evokes in every workplace. While some may see it as a fresh start, brimming with new ideas and goals, others might find it challenging, carrying the weight of expectations and the post-holiday blues.

1. Open communication: the first step to understanding

Start by checking in with your teams, peers, colleagues, managers, and friends. How are they really feeling? Encourage open and empathetic conversations. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is willing to listen can make a world of difference.

2. Creating a safe space for expression

Ensure that your workplace is a safe space where everyone feels comfortable expressing their thoughts, ideas and emotions. This doesn’t mean just having an open-door policy, but actively creating an environment where employees feel heard and supported. Trickle can be a valuable tool in this endeavour, providing a platform for continuous, real-time feedback and dialogue in a psychologically safe way.

3. Small changes, big impact

Ask your team what small changes would enhance their work experience. It could be flexible working hours, a quiet room for breaks, or even regular check-in meetings. Implementing these suggestions not only improves psychological wellbeing but also demonstrates that you value their input. We’ve recently used a feature of the Trickle platform, a ‘MoodSense’, to ask our team how they all feel about the work/life balance, and the results will be used to make positive changes.

4. Recognise individual needs

Acknowledge that not everyone is in the same emotional space. For those who are enthusiastic about the new year, provide them with the resources and support to chase their goals. For others who might be struggling, offer flexibility and understanding. Tailor your approach to meet each individual’s needs.

5. Building a supportive community

Encourage team-building activities that aren’t necessarily work-related. It could be a virtual coffee break or a ‘bring your pet to work’ day. These activities can lighten the mood and strengthen bonds within the team.

January, with its unique challenges and opportunities, is the perfect time to reinforce the foundation of psychological safety in your workplace. By implementing these steps, you create an environment where your employees feel valued and supported, leading to a more productive and positive year ahead.