Amidst various challenges, maintaining a productive and motivated team can be difficult, but achievable with certain tips.
“As companies face increasing challenges in attracting and retaining talent, promoting more humane and balanced work environments has become a strategic priority,” states Adecco Portugal.
The human resources company identified and shared “five simple — yet scientifically proven — practices that can make a difference in team well-being, motivation, and performance.”
These are:
1. Celebrate small but meaningful victories – “According to Harvard University, the most positive workdays are those where employees feel they are making progress. Recognizing small advances — like completing a pending task, receiving positive feedback, or learning something new — contributes to motivation and a sense of personal accomplishment.”
2. Provide autonomy and space for proactivity – “Autonomy is one of the factors with the greatest impact on well-being and performance. When employees feel they have the freedom to organize their work and make decisions, they gain motivation, confidence, and adaptability. Environments that encourage proactivity and creativity are also more resilient.”
3. Reflect on what went well – “Encouraging moments of reflection on the day’s or week’s successes — even the smallest ones — helps reinforce self-esteem and clarity about one’s work value. A simple ‘thank you’, public recognition, or a sharing moment among colleagues can strengthen team cohesion.”
4. Work based on individual strengths – “Data from Gallup shows that employees who use their strengths are 57% less likely to experience burnout. Engaging professionals in tasks aligned with their natural skills increases enthusiasm, productivity, and loyalty to the company.”
5. Value human relationships daily – “Positive workplace relationships remain one of the main retention factors. Promoting authentic interactions — whether in an informal conversation, a gesture of support, or a moment of relaxation — contributes to a healthier, more collaborative, and motivating environment.”
“Small daily actions, when consistent and intentional, can profoundly impact the work environment. In a market where burnout, stress, and professional mobility are realities, learning to promote workplace well-being is no longer an option — it’s a strategic decision,” highlights Vânia Borges, Human Resources Director at Adecco Portugal.
According to the human resources company, “in an increasingly competitive and demanding market, creating people-centered organizational cultures is one of the main differentiators.”
“For Adecco, fostering micro-moments of happiness is more than promoting a good environment: it’s investing in a long-term strategy that generates real impact on productivity, mental health, and the connection between employees and the company,” states the shared note.
