Most of us breathe nearly 30,000 times a day without giving it a second thought. But at work—where deadlines, meetings, and constant communication can heighten stress—our breathing often becomes shallow, fast, or tense without us noticing. These subtle shifts can sap our energy, cloud our thinking, and keep us in a low-grade fight-or-flight state.

As more organizations move toward a return to the office (RTO), it’s clear that not all transitions are going smoothly. When RTO strategies are poorly executed, they can lead to employee frustration, confusion, and even the loss of valuable talent. Fortunately, many of these challenges are avoidable. By recognizing and addressing these ten common mistakes, employers can support a smoother, more sustainable return.

Each year, the CDC reports that around 22 million workers are exposed to noise levels that can damage health. While hearing loss is the most familiar risk, the effects go far deeper. Persistent noise exposure has been linked to heart disease, disrupted sleep, elevated stress, and trouble with memory and focus. In other words, workplace noise isn’t just a daily distraction—it’s a long-term threat to both productivity and overall well-being.