7 Ways to be Happier at Work

The average person spends 90,000 hours at work over their lifetime. Is it unreasonable to expect that the majority of those should be happy ones?

Beverly Lewis flies solo in this episode on the relationship between happiness and business success. 

Despite a large body of positive psychological research into the relationship between happiness and productivity, happiness at work has traditionally been seen as a potential by-product of positive outcomes at work, rather than a pathway to business success. But things have changed. Purpose and fulfillment are the new success indicators for a new generation.

Employee happiness can be influenced by two factors: the organizational culture and employees’ mindset. These factors form an intricate link. Today's focus is on personal mindset and Beverly discusses seven strategies for improving your own outlook. 

The seven strategies are:
1. Always have something to look forward to. "There are times when dreams sustain us more than facts." 

2. Physical exercise boosts endorphins, oxygenates the brain, and combats depression. According to a new review of research about good moods and physical activity, people who work out even once a week or for as little as 10 minutes a day tend to be more cheerful than those who never exercise. And any type of exercise may be helpful.

3. Appreciation – everyone responds to appreciation. Give more compliments. 

4. Spend at least 30 minutes a day doing something you love. A study from the Mayo Clinic found that physicians who spend about 20 percent of their time doing “work they find most meaningful are at dramatically lower risk for burnout.” But here’s what’s fascinating: Anything beyond that 20 percent has a marginal impact, as “spending 50 percent of your time in the most meaningful area is associated with similar rates of burnout as 20 percent.” In other words: You don’t need to change everything about your job to see substantial benefits. A few changes here and there can be all you need.

5. Implement the 20 second rule. In other words don’t strain your willpower. Make good choices easier to implement.   James Clear’s book, Atomic Habits, goes into this at length and is a fascinating read. 

6. Be grateful. Researchers describe the relationship between joy and gratitude as an intriguing upward spiral. 

7. Invest in building relationships.

Beverly always appreciates feedback and can be reached at Beverly at BeverlySpeaks.com.