The Hidden Cost of Neglected Health: How Wellness Impacts Your Business

They say, “health is wealth,” and I’ve come to realize it’s more than that—it’s essential to achieving lasting success in any position. Unfortunately, this understanding didn’t come easily for me. Another birthday has me reflecting not only on time but on the journey of change that has brought me to this insight. Health is often something we don’t fully appreciate, especially in our youth, when work and family demands consume our attention. It’s common to push well-being aside, assuming we’ll focus on it "someday." Yet, “someday” often arrives with a stark reminder: our greatest asset isn’t time, money, or even skill—it's our health.

Years ago, I was over 230 pounds at 5'10", living what many call the “SAD” (Standard American Diet) lifestyle. This path could have easily led to diabetes, heart disease, and other preventable illnesses. In my Italian-American family, food wasn’t just nourishment; it was tradition, comfort, and sometimes a coping mechanism. A slice of Junior’s cheesecake after a tough day or a neat glass of Makers Mark became routine, but the real cost of that lifestyle wasn’t obvious then. Like many Americans, I was caught in a loop of poor eating habits and high-stress management that was quietly deteriorating my health—and, as a result, my productivity.

It wasn’t until I began feeling the physical and mental effects that I understood the steep cost of disregarding my health. Since then, I’ve made significant changes, and those changes haven’t just transformed my health but have also reshaped my outlook on life and work. I’ve dropped from over 230 pounds to 175, and while weight is only one measure, it’s been crucial to my overall wellness. My improved health aligns with how I feel and my productivity levels. Now, I’ve adopted a balanced diet, healthier stress management, and regular exercise. The transformation isn’t just in my physical health but in my ability to lead, make decisions, and perform at a high level.

Why Wellness Matters in the Workplace

The connection between health and productivity is undeniable. In the U.S., neglected health—especially regarding obesity and chronic diseases—places a considerable strain on both individuals and businesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), close to 40% of American adults are classified as obese, and obesity-related conditions like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers are leading preventable causes of premature death.

These issues don’t just impact individuals; they reverberate to affect families, communities, and the organizations they’re part of. The American Journal of Preventive Medicine reports that health issues tied to obesity cost approximately $190.2 billion yearly in healthcare expenses—accounting for nearly 21% of total U.S. healthcare spending. For companies, this translates to lost productivity, elevated insurance premiums, and challenges for hiring teams in managing the consequences. CDC figures show that absenteeism due to obesity alone costs U.S. employers around $3.38 billion each year. For small businesses, these costs can determine whether they thrive or just survive.

Yet, the financial impact is only one facet. When I was at my heaviest, I wasn’t just carrying extra pounds—I was carrying additional stress, fatigue, and anxiety. I wasn’t fully present for my family, clients, or team as I had been or as I am now. While not everyone with extra weight may feel this way, the likelihood of not performing at one’s peak is fair to assume. In some industries, such as tire and automotive industry, the stakes are even higher. We depend on our teams being at their best daily, but when health issues emerge, they disrupt operations, reduce efficiency, and drive up costs. It’s encouraging to see more organizations prioritizing wellness, incorporating it into culture and hiring practices.

Embedding Wellness into Corporate Culture

Leading companies across various sectors are proactively fostering employee well-being, recognizing that a healthier workforce is more productive, engaged, and loyal. Numerous organizations now offer wellness initiatives, including gym memberships, mental health support, and nutritional guidance. Some even reconfigure workspaces to promote movement and counteract sedentary behavior, linked to multiple health risks.

In industries like ours, where physical demands can be substantial, these wellness programs can have a profound impact. By integrating health into hiring strategies and workplace culture, businesses attract candidates who prioritize wellness, building a motivated and dedicated team. According to the American Psychological Association, employees who feel supported in their well-being report higher job satisfaction, longer retention, and better performance—a significant advantage for small businesses, where each team member is critical.

Investing in employee wellness goes beyond offering benefits; it’s about cultivating a culture where health is upheld as a core value. This shift not only enriches employees’ lives but also boosts the company’s performance and longevity. The Harvard Business Review notes that for each dollar invested in wellness programs, employers see an average return of $2.71 through reduced absenteeism and healthcare expenses.

As someone who has experienced the advantages of a healthier lifestyle, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of wellness in the workplace. It’s not only about avoiding health challenges but about creating a culture where employees feel valued and equipped to give their best. Prioritizing wellness is a strategic choice that yields returns in engagement, productivity, and, ultimately, business success. If wellness isn’t part of your company’s culture or hiring strategy, there’s no better time to begin. Whether by offering wellness programs, establishing a supportive work environment, or leading by example, the positive impact on your team and your bottom line is substantial.

Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that health extends beyond personal responsibility—it’s a business necessity, especially with current trends in healthcare spending. By investing in our health and our teams’ well-being, we create stronger, more resilient businesses prepared to thrive. For those facing health challenges, I understand how hard it can be to make changes. But I also know the rewards far outweigh the effort. Small, consistent actions can help us reclaim our health, enabling us to lead our teams effectively.

I’m not a doctor or health expert; I’m simply someone who spends considerable time thinking and writing about people—particularly in the HR and talent sector. Health and wellness are increasingly critical subjects, and I believe raising awareness about them, especially among business owners and leaders, is essential. Attending events in the past at my “fluffiest,” I realized I wasn’t alone—many of us in those rooms faced similar struggles. So, I write this as one of you, hoping to encourage others to take steps for themselves and their teams. Health is undoubtedly our greatest business asset, and safeguarding it should be paramount.

As we look ahead, I encourage you to evaluate where you are in your health journey. Are there improvements you can make to boost your well-being? Can you establish wellness initiatives in your workplace to support your team? Remember, investing in health means investing in the future of our businesses and those who rely on us.

Mike Cioffi is the founder of Talent Talent, a boutique recruiting agency dedicated to your industry. You can reach him directly: [email protected] if you have any questions about this article.