Behavior Change at Work

9 Worksite Wellness Applications of Self-Determination Theory

Theory At-a-Glance

Self-Determination Theory states that individuals are much more likely to

engage in positive behaviors over the long term when 3 conditions are met…

Building Competence

Offer regular lunch-and-learn events tied to real-world skills or knowledge.

Think outside the box and select topics that are interesting and relevant to employees.

For example, an expert on getting organized can give tips for reducing job-related stress

and achieving better work-life balance.

1

Building Competence

Map out several walking routes around each office location.

2

Accommodate schedules by providing route options that can be completed in 5, 15, and 30 minutes. Include indoor paths as well for days when an outdoor jaunt isn’t enticing

due to the weather. Finally, find creative ways to make the map fun and visually appealing.

Building Competence

Give positive encouragement and feedback at unexpected times.

3

We all want reinforcement that we’re doing the right things (and doing them well). Each week, provide a small gift card to one employee and have them award it to a coworker that exhibits a healthy habit at the office during that week.

Fostering Self-Direction

Factor choice and flexibility into your wellness program.

4

Autonomy is key for intrinsic motivation. Rather than rigid incentive designs that force

everyone down a defined path, consider adopting a points-based structure so individuals

can complete activities that are meaningful to them and their personal goals.

Fostering Self-Direction

Communicate as a friend –not as a parent.

5

Being told you “have” to do something tends to diminish the desire to do that very thing.

Audit your wellness materials to scrub awaycontrolling language. Replace it with a warm,

conversational tone that emphasizes information, rationale, and value.

Fostering Self-Direction

Measure, adapt, refine (and repeat).

6

Each employee is a customer of your wellness program. Hear firsthand what’s working and what needs improvement by conducting a robust annual satisfaction survey. Then, use this valuable data to make adjustments and experiment with new ideas year-over-year.

Connecting Support

Set several organization-wide goals to strive for during the year.

7

Shared objectives unite people through teamwork and peer support. Provide context for each goal – and how it impacts the whole

company. Communicate regular updates on the progress made, as well as ways employees can contribute to success.

Connecting Support

Tap into the bonds of friends and family.

8

Humans are social by nature, and your wellness program can take advantage of this.

Organize a company field day or bowling tournament that’s open to employees

and their loved ones. You’ll find that it not only boosts health – but morale, too.

Connecting Support

Crowdsource activities through a wellness champion network.

9

Leverage wellness champions to generate grassroots enthusiasm for upcoming events.

Advise them on effective ways to mentor and cheer their coworkers’ efforts – as well as

helping individuals overcome barriers.

We spark real behavior change.

To learn more about Nurtur-LiveHealthier’s integrated health and wellness solutions

for large employers and health plans, visit www.NurturLiveHealthier.com.