How to increase happiness in the workplace
Has the case for happiness in the workplace been overstated? In a word, No.
Has the case for happiness in the workplace been completely misunderstood. Absolutely.
Happiness isn’t about being in denial, lacking a grip on reality, or putting on an act. In the workplace having a content, productive, and focused outlook is true happiness.
A cheerful attitude in an employee is often the result of the culture of the company. Studies have shown that employees who are engaged, mentored and valued are far more productive. Conversely, anger and dissatisfaction have adverse health and productivity implications.
The Data
- A recent study by the Social Market Foundation and the University of Warwick’s Centre for Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy found that subjects who were provided with pre-established “happiness shocks” showed productivity increases, on average of 12%, and reached as high as 20% above the control group.
- The American Psychological Association reported that workplace stress costs the U.S. economy $500 billion sand 550 million workdays are lost each year due to stress on the job. Upwards of 60% of workplace accidents are attributed to stress.
Time and time again I see clients who benefit – in terms of ROI and employee retention – when they successfully implement a corporate wellness strategy. Employees report feeling happier at work and the businesses themselves report higher levels of productivity. From where I’m standing, understanding happiness in the workplace is the first step to increasing productivity. We not only need to understand this collectively, but also on an individual basis. What’s going to make you happy at work? What can you do to change your perspective? How can you find support, whether inside or outside of your organization, so that you feel fulfilled and satisfied in your work and your life?
No matter if it’s for your business, health or personal life, I highly recommend finding a coach or mentor. All too often, we try to do everything on our own. An objective and experienced coach can encourage, guide and call us out when we are making excuses that are not helping us reach our goals. Life is too short to wake up each day dreading what’s to come. I am not saying you have to jump out of bed singing show tunes; however, I am saying that we all need to evaluate our situation and see how we can find happiness with where we at today.
What’s the one thing you can do today to make yourself happier? Post in the comments, I’d love to hear from you!
Photo Credit: Bethany Legg on Unsplash