Why now?
The pandemic has thrown many challenges at us all, with a shift in the way we work causing increased stress and additional pressure for many. HPE managers talked to colleagues, collected feedback and realised that dedicated time to re-energise and recharge was essential for the health and wellbeing of every member of staff.
What impact does Wellness Friday have?
With the virtual world of work and the shift to home working, an ‘always-on’ mentality has appeared, as people balance home, parenting, work and their health from one place. These Wellness Fridays allow team members to take time out to exercise, do fun activities, spend time with their family or kids, or to unwind and focus on what makes them whole, centred and happy. They are truly a blessing to all teams.
Jeanine Maree, HPE GreenLake Sales Specialist, has seen the impact that Wellness Friday has had on her and the people
“I make a concerted effort to spend Wellness Friday doing exactly what I want. What I do depends on what I feel I need at the time. Sometimes I just need wine
“Wellness Friday is literally my JAM! My hubby will often ask me when Wellness Friday is so that we can do something fun together. He often works over weekends, so it just gives us some more time together because weekends are also usually filled with chores. I think it’s important to take time to wind down, so I appreciate that HPE has made a commitment to give time back to employees. I feel a responsibility to use the time wisely and I am proud to tell people about this privilege.”
“My career has always been very important to me and it’s taken a long time for me to not feel guilty for taking time off. If I want to stay motivated, energised and working for many more years I need to be healthy (inside and out). I make sure I make the most of my time in the office, and outside. I don’t want to regret not pushing hard enough, and then losing the deal. I certainly don’t want to miss out on quality time with the people I love. If I have deadlines or missed something in the week, there is no way I will be able to fully relax so I make sure I get it done. I su
ppose for me it’s about making sure I take steps to set myself up for success both in my career and personal life and Wellness Friday contributes to both those elements.”
She also adds a note to HPE CEO, Anotnio Neri, saying,
“Thank you Antonio. You are my hero. Seriously.”
As the Wellness Friday initiative extends, every member of staff will be thinking about how the days can be used to best support their health and wellbeing.
President Ntuli, Managing Director at HPE South Africa understands the importance of Wellness Friday:
“This is a continuous investment in our people as part of the Work That Fits Your Life Programme. I am personally looking forward to taking time off and focus on my well-being. We all had to adapt to extra-ordinary ways of working and at times we tend to forget to look after the most important person, that is us. As a leader, I have already cleared my calendar for the six days and will be spending time with family as well as finishing off some books that I have always wanted to read. I feel privileged to be part of an organisation that values mine and my team members’ well-being. This gesture will create the momentum and energy resulting in an environment that inspires team members to push for better while creating unparalleled customer and partner experience.”
For HPE, focusing on mental health is central to the organisation, and wellness is prioritised above all else. As life continues to change and evolve, the spotlight on staff wellbeing will remain.
President Ntuli
Hewlett Packard Enterprise
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PresidentNtuli
President is passionate about innovation and sustainability. He believes technology innovation not only provides a platform to disrupt traditional business models, but it is also instrumental in improving the lives of all people, irrespective of their socio-economic standing.