Employee wellbeing is increasingly impacted by stress, burnout, and loneliness, with 40% of U.S. employees reporting negative effects on mental health. Strategic recognition can enhance wellbeing by addressing five key areas: career, social, financial, physical, and community wellbeing. Recognition must be fulfilling, authentic, personalized, equitable, and integrated into the culture. Employees with low wellbeing and poor recognition are more likely to seek new opportunities. Leaders can improve wellbeing by linking recognition and wellbeing strategies, empowering managers, leading by example, and celebrating healthy habits to foster a culture of engagement and support.

Join for free to read