Reflect, Reset, Reimagine: Preparing Your Employee Wellness Program for 2026

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time for companies to pause and take a closer look at their employee wellness programs. The end of the year isn’t just about closing budgets and wrapping up projects—it’s also an opportunity to reflect on what worked, reset your goals, and reimagine how to support your employees’ well-being in the year ahead.

1. Reflect: What Worked—and What Didn’t

Start by assessing the past year’s initiatives. Which programs had the most engagement? Where did participation drop off? Look at both the data (participation rates, outcomes, feedback) and the stories behind them.

• Did employees respond well to specific wellness challenges, webinars/seminars, health fairs or workshops?

• Were your offerings inclusive, accessible, and aligned with your workforce’s needs?

Reflecting on these insights provides a clear picture of what’s resonating—and what might need to evolve.

2. Reset: Revisit Your Goals

Wellness programs thrive when they’re connected to organizational priorities. Reset your wellness goals to reflect current realities—whether that’s improving mental health support, reducing burnout, encouraging physical activity, or fostering social connection. Consider employee input through surveys or focus groups to ensure your 2026 wellness strategy reflects what your people truly need.

3. Reimagine: Innovate for 2026

Wellness at work is changing rapidly. Reimagine your approach by incorporating fresh, evidence-based strategies. Think beyond traditional health metrics and embrace whole-person well-being—covering physical, mental, financial, and social health. Explore options like hybrid wellness challenges, mindfulness initiatives, or programs that build connection in remote and on-site teams alike.

The Bottom Line: A thriving workplace wellness program isn’t static—it evolves with your people and your culture. By taking time to reflect, reset, and reimagine, your organization can start 2026 with a clear vision and renewed commitment to employee well-being.

Schedule a free consultation with Kristine Keykal, CEO and Co-Owner to review your employee wellness program:

Email Kristine at kkeykal@advantagehealth.com to get started or call 612.823.4470 (select option “1”).

Let Kristine Keykal, M.P.H, co-founder of AdvantageHealth with over 25 years of experience, consult with you on your employee wellness program.

Since 2001, Minnesota-based AdvantageHealth has been delivering award-winning employee wellbeing programs and fitness center design & management throughout the U.S.