Over the past decade, companies of all sizes have embraced wellness programs as a powerful component in reducing health care costs and enhancing morale, as well as a recruitment tool. A successful wellness program, like a successful business, requires time, creativity and leaders to help execute it.

At TVH, numerous challenges are offered throughout the year at all locations, including the United States, Canada and Mexico. Employees participate in quarterly walking challenges, a Garden Challenge, a Plank Challenge and a Wall Sit Challenge.

The goal is to incorporate a friendly competition with a time line to enhance quality of life. The challenges can ignite a spark that becomes a fire to choose a healthy lifestyle. Everyone can participate. The only limitation is the one you put on your mind.

“I no longer see these as a ‘challenge’ but a lifestyle,” said employee Teshome Ditamo.

Employee Mike Chambers fractured four vertebrae in his lower back and was told by the doctors it was something he would have to deal with. “I had a big day walking on the first day of our walking challenge: 20,200 steps. I would like to challenge all of the walkers to beat that number,” Chambers said.

“The walking challenge has become a lifestyle for me and my family. Even my dog is benefiting from the increased activity. We are far more active on the week nights and weekends,” said employee Madyson Wood.

Employee Ricardo Guevara uses the walking challenge as an opportunity to connect with his team. “My team wants to try and beat me,” Guevara said.

As a leader, the gift of providing the motivation and encouragement leaves a lasting rippling effect on many lives. Find and support Wellness Ambassadors within your company, provide on-going challenges and watch the wave of wellness take hold. Each positive choice you make is affecting you in small ways that will add up to big change over time.