Is 2025 the year of actual wellbeing? The trends and tips for a healthier workplace

Five wellbeing trends in the workplace

Never before have so many employers and employees been focused on wellbeing. This is evident from research cited by HR expert Kathleen Vangronsvelt in an article in De Tijd. Yet, data from RIZIV shows that absenteeism and burnout rates continue to rise. One of the most striking statistics is the doubling of the number of long-term sick leave cases (from 2008 to 2022). In other words, one-tenth of the working population has been absent for over a year. The fastest growing cause? Depression and burnout.

How do we turn the tide in 2025? At Golazo Energy we see 5 trends popping up that could have an effective impact on the health of employees and corporations.

1. Focus on each layer of the organisation

Today too many businesses aim their efforts solely at the employee, but he or she has only a limited impact on their own wellbeing. Luckily the focus seems to be shifting to the different levels: the individual, team dynamics, the culture and structure of organisations, and the role of leaders. Is the wellbeing policy aligned with the organisation’s mission, vision, and leadership training? That is the question more and more companies are beginning to ask themselves.

2. An integrated approach is essential

Now that many ad hoc wellbeing initiatives fall short of expectations, the awareness grows that an integrated strategy is necessary to generate a long lasting effect. We shouldn’t settle too easily when it comes to our employees’ wellbeing. Only a consistent and holistic long term plan can deal with burnout, depression and lasting absenteeism. This calls for a common strategy within an organisation. No to silos, each organising their own little initiative.

3. Lifelong learning: the driving force behind motivation and adaptability

Lifelong learning remains crucial, especially in 2025. Employees are more flexible, integrate new technologies more quickly, and are better equipped to adapt to changes within the organisation or the market.

Research shows that those who regularly participate in training, develop new skills, or take part in mentoring programmes derive greater satisfaction from their professional lives. They are more motivated and engaged. Moreover, these learning activities strengthen connections between colleagues, enhancing collaboration and team dynamics.

4. AI meets Human Energy

Yes, AI can also make a big difference when it comes to wellbeing. By making wellbeing programmes more personal and effective, it plays a key role. AI tools offer unseen opportunities to tune programmes to individual needs. The analysis of data enables companies to easily design personalised solutions. Health tech start-ups accelerate this process by developing innovative tools. At Golazo Energy we often implement them in our programmes. For instance, the BioMetriQ monitors your blood sugar and reveals the impact of certain eating habits. Or take Moonbird, a breathing device that combats stress by optimising breathing patterns.

The success of these technologies lies in the combination of data and a human-centered approach. The collaboration with health tech start-ups is essential to make corporate wellbeing futureproof.

5. The link between employer branding and wellbeing

Recent research shows how a wellbeing policy can play an important role in attracting and retaining talent. More and more employees choose a company that invests in their wellbeing, giving that company a competitive edge in this tight job market.

By linking wellbeing to employer branding, these businesses not only create a better work culture, they also provide a solid base for sustainable growth. Employees who feel appreciated are more involved and become ambassadors of the company. Their positive experiences strengthen de reputation of the organisation and make it more attractive for new talent and clients alike. Companies who implement this strategy see concrete advantages: Higher retention, lower recruitment costs and a productive, highly motivated work environment

How can you get started?

Now that we know which trends will shape our workplace in the coming years, it’s important not to stand still. Below are some practical tips you can start using right away to improve wellbeing in the workplace and achieve sustainable results.

Take a break to accelerate

In elite sports, everyone acknowledges that rest periods between training and performances are important. This is the principle of supercompensation: by resting, the body doesn’t just return to its normal state but becomes stronger. This allows for an even better performance next time. The same principle applies in the workplace. Anyone who tries to be “on” 24/7, or expects more output with fewer resources, will eventually hit a wall. After a period of mental and cognitive peak performance, it’s best to schedule some recovery or rest time. That way, you’ll come back stronger.

High on energy

Anyone who’s been involved in team sports knows: energy is contagious, both positively and negatively. So, it’s important that your energy is in the right place – as an individual, as a team and as an organisation.

Everything starts with physical energy. Give enough attention to sleep, a healthy diet and exercise. The WHO recommends 30 active minutes per day. We are simply not made to sit still for 8 hours. When you are physically healthy, you are also more likely to be resilient mentally and grounded emotionally.

Just as crucial; optimal mental health. A sharp focus is worth its weight in gold. Often you can optimise your focus by scheduling productive moments where no mails or colleagues can distract you. You might even reach a flow state: a mental state in which you are fully immersed in an activity and feel focused and energised.

Also try to notice signals of stress. Is someone easily agitated? Are you missing a lot of deadlines? Is a colleague often dropping out? All symptoms of long term stress. Regularly schedule feedback sessions where the focus isn’t just on work results, but also on how the person is feeling. Don’t forget to follow up on the conversation afterwards. It’s best to address chronic stress as soon as possible.

Lead by example

As a leader , you serve as a role model. Show that health and wellbeing are topics that can be discussed within your team. By recognising the importance of wellbeing and integrating it into daily activities, you set a strong standard for your team. When a leader regularly takes breaks, gets enough rest, or makes stress a topic of conversation, employees will be more likely to follow suit. It creates a culture of openness, where wellbeing is not a taboo but a priority. The positive impact on your team is huge. Employees are more likely to be vulnerable, which strengthens trust and team dynamics.

2025: The year where success is more than just performance

With the rise of new technologies, lifelong learning and a holistic approach to wellbeing, the future of companies lies in the creation of healthy, resilient and engaged teams. In 2025, the success of companies will not only depend on their performance but also on their ability to support a healthy work culture. So ask yourself: Do you prioritise the physical and mental health of your employees? Let’s answer “yes” to that in 2025!

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About the author of this article

Aline Fobe is Managing Director B2B at Golazo Energy, and a former pro-athlete. As a Red Panther, she played over 185 international games. With her background as HR Consultant she understands the importance of wellbeing in a high performance culture.

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