Is this a coincidence?

20 Sep 2022 | Communication skills, Middle Manager

So, last Saturday (17th) was International Day of Listening and this week (19th – 25th) is International Week of Happiness at Work!

Is this a confidence that happiness at work follows listening? 
Probably, right? But what a great and somewhat logical coincidence!

Happiness is not a one size fits all but we both would agree, and so does the breadth of research, that happiness is incredibly important for individuals, teams and organisations.

Offices that have free fruit and great coffee – or delivers this to individuals working from home – is great but happiness at work is embedded much deeper into the culture. According to Maartje Wolff and Fennande van der Meulen who initiated the International Week of Happiness at Work, have extracted from the research four key pillars that offer practical guidance.

  1. Purpose
  2. People
  3. Progress
  4. Positivity

Purpose – gives direction, helps decision making; it motivates and helps build stories and attracts talent

People – is all about connection. I love the questions they ask for people:

  • Can you be yourself and show your vulnerability?
  • Do you belong?
  • Is there trust in each other?

Appreciate your colleagues – give a compliment.

Progress – covers growth and development, meaningful work and achievement. Celebrating success and a balance of autonomy and responsibility contribute to satisfaction.

Positivity – is creating a better atmosphere, enabling creativity, welcoming fun and laughter. Positivity is a major reason people go to work! Positivity stimulates learning.

The International Week of Happiness at Work suggest the following:

  • Create habits, rituals, and an environment where fun is ok;
  • organise fun events such as a beer and pizza session or a football tournament;
  • provide an inspiring work environment
  • be a good example: Have fun yourself!
  • do unexpected fun things
  • Make sure it doesn’t become superficial!

This year it’s a ‘do-it-yourself’ themed approach – do whatever suits your workplace and given the hybrid nature of many workplaces this seems a great approach.

Please let me know what you do, I’d love to celebrate you.

I appreciate you