Workplaces around the globe constantly work to at keeping good talent in-house. But beyond providing them with an environment where they can excel professionally, keeping employees is not complicated; make them happy. But what’s the best way to promote employee happiness?

Just because it’s uncomplicated that doesn’t mean it’s not daunting. So, how do you as an HR professional retain good talent? Here’s 5 simple tips to create a ‘fresh start’ within your existing workplace.

1. Refresh your workspace

Try changing the position of staff desks to face the windows. Natural light will enhance mood and create a more spacious feel to the office.

A recent study in the US found that office workers with more natural light exposure at the office had longer sleep duration, better sleep quality, more physical activity and better quality of life compared to office workers with less light exposure in the workplace.

Create small task group dedicated to organising and cleaning up any messy files, books and any other items that have been lying around for years. A clear environment will create clear minds.

Place a few green plants around the office. Research shows that just one plant per workspace can provide an ample lift in staff’s emotional state and improve employee happiness.

2. Encourage staff to walk, bike or take public transport into work.

Turn the commute into a positive experience. Whether it’s incidental exercise, known to boost serotonin levels, or a bus ride where they can indulge in reading a good book or listening to an inspiring podcast. Not only will they be doing good things for the environment, they are also having some important ‘me time’.

3. Get staff outside during the day.

Schedule a group time-out. Pick a five minute time-slot in the morning and afternoon for everyone to get away from their desk, to go outside and socialise with each other, and enjoy the fresh air! Walking meetings are a great way to achieve this too.

4. Encourage staff to learn something new

To boost employee happiness, choose a day of the month to gather staff for an on-site ‘Lunch and Learn’. Allow team members to present on a health & wellbeing topic they’re interested in or call in a professional to run a cooking class or a presentation on mindfulness.

5. Introduce a meditation zone.

You’ve probably heard about this before, but that’s because it works! Awareness about the benefits of mindfulness meditation is growing, and it’s becoming an increasingly popular treatment for anxiety. However, testing its effectiveness in a convincing way has traditionally been difficult.

This year, a new clinical trial has found that mindfulness meditation combats anxiety and stress. It’s also been found to improve creative thinking.

Having a dedicated space for staff to meditate gives them a few moments out of each day to recharge and mindfully connect. It also relieves stress, an inevitable part of any workplace. Showing staff that the company supports them in their mental health is a positive way to help them feel valued and increase employee happiness.