The Third Dimension: Social Wellbeing at Work
When we talk about wellbeing at work, we can’t stop at physical health programs or mental health resources. Social wellbeing, or the quality of our relationships and our sense of belonging, is one of the most powerful drivers of team performance, resilience, and job satisfaction.
At Nimble Up, we define wellbeing across 8 interconnected dimensions: emotional, physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, occupational, and financial. When social wellbeing suffers, the effects can ripple across every other dimension.
What Is Social Wellbeing?
Social wellbeing is about connection. At work, this means the relationships we have with co-workers and the sense of belonging we feel in our workplace communities.
Social wellbeing covers everything from daily interactions with colleagues to deeper relationships with mentors, leaders, and peers. And it’s not just who you know—it’s how those relationships affect you and how you show up in them.
How Social Wellbeing Shows Up at Work
When this dimension is strong, you might notice:
You have colleagues you can be honest with and trust completely.
You feel like you belong to at least one team or professional community.
You can collaborate without constant tension or miscommunication.
You’re able to set and respect healthy boundaries while keeping strong relationships
You generally feel energized—not drained—after most interactions.
Social wellbeing can act as a buffer against stress. In a healthy culture, knowing someone “has your back” or simply sharing a quick laugh in a meeting can completely shift your day.
What to Watch For
Social wellbeing can fluctuate during times of change, high pressure, or remote work transitions. Signs it may need attention include:
Feeling lonely or disconnected, even when you’re with your team
Avoiding conversations or meetings because they feel draining
Constant tension or misalignment with colleagues
Struggling to communicate needs or set boundaries
Feeling like you “don’t fit in” anywhere at work
Having no one to call or message when something important happens
These are clues that your relationships and workplace culture need intentional care. Social wellbeing doesn’t just “happen.” It’s built over time through trust, consistent communication, and shared experiences.
Next up: Intellectual Wellbeing (and how curiosity fuels growth and performance).