What if you could work from the beach, embrace flexible schedules, or benefit from progressive policies like menstrual leave? This isn't an implausible dream—there are practical steps companies can take to create a real work-life balance.
With the insights of Liz Lux, Head of People & Culture at Edenred Austria, we share five actionable strategies to help organizations support their teams more effectively. Drawing on Liz's expertise in Learning & Development, she emphasizes that even small changes—like encouraging open feedback, prioritizing employee well-being, and embracing flexibility—can create a happier, more productive workplace.
These insights aren’t just about doing the right thing; they’re about building thriving teams in today’s fast-changing work environment.
Let’s dive into Liz’s practical advice and proven strategies and discover how businesses can truly make work-life balance a reality.
let employees work from the beach
Allowing employees to work from various locations, including the beach, can significantly boost morale and productivity. This flexibility helps employees manage their personal responsibilities alongside work, ultimately leading to a more satisfied and engaged team.
To do so, it’s crucial to have “open & clear communication and mindset to listen to all requests and evaluate together if doable”, Liz adds.
feedback means growth
"An open feedback culture where anything can be discussed, where transparency is demonstrated when communicating, is vital," says Liz.
Drawing on her extensive background, she dedicates time to coach leaders on how to nurture this environment. By conducting workshops focused on mindset shifts towards new work models, Liz emphasizes the role of each employee in evolving the company culture.
Feedback isn’t just about addressing mistakes; it’s about fostering growth. Regular feedback sessions ensure employees feel heard and valued while empowering them to take ownership of their development.
health is the new wealth
Introducing health sessions twice a week—such as yoga, mindfulness, and pilates—not only supports physical health but also mental well-being. Liz highlights a strong CSR focus on nutrition, exercise, and inclusion as core components of the company’s health initiatives.
Companies can partner with local gyms or create in-house facilities to encourage physical activity. Regular exercise is linked to reduced stress, better mental health, and increased energy levels, all contributing to more productive employees.
check the vibe
Checking in with employees regularly is just as important as hosting formal feedback sessions. Liz advises leaders to prioritize the human aspect of leadership. Weekly or bi-weekly 1:1’s can help leaders genuinely understand how team members feel and what they might need. These check-ins are not just about work; they’re about creating a safe space where employees can share their thoughts or challenges.
These informal moments often make a bigger impact than structured meetings and demonstrate authentic empathy.
“We are very lucky to be part of an international company with HQ in France where the focus on people is very strong and many different new technologies are implemented to support the aim of building and maintaining a dream team,” says Liz.
menstrual leave for all
Progressive policies like menstrual leave can significantly enhance employee well-being. Normalizing such policies breaks taboos and recognizes that people experience life differently. When companies take proactive steps to support these realities, they send a message that they care.
4-day work weeks
While a 4-day work week might seem daunting, research indicates that it could lead to greater productivity and satisfaction. This approach allows employees more time to recharge and pursue personal interests, which can reduce burnout and improve overall job performance. Organizations can pilot the concept with specific teams and measure the impact to determine its feasibility.
wrap up
“As a company that is a service provider to the HR community, we have the big advantage of always hearing and seeing the latest trends. This in addition to being very agile, means we can adapt and change quickly as needed” reflects Liz.
And yet, creating a healthier work-life balance doesn’t require a complete overhaul of company culture; it starts with small, intentional changes. Liz Lux’s insights offer actionable steps that organizations can implement today.
From fostering genuine connections through check-ins to embracing flexibility and progressive policies, these strategies demonstrate that supporting employees’ well-being is not only the right thing to do but also the smart thing to do.
about Liz
Liz Lux brings over 30 years of expertise in organizational leadership, team development, learning and development, and HR (People & Culture). Her career spans 15+ countries and 10+ industries, ranging from startups to large multinational corporations.
Currently, Liz balances two roles: as a Freelance Consultant, Coach, and Trainer, and as the part-time Head of People & Culture at Edenred Austria GmbH. Her extensive experience and global perspective make her a trusted leader in fostering growth and innovation within organizations.
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