March 20 is International Day of Happiness, a global celebration of anchoring happiness in our lives and the lives of those around us.
At a time of unprecedented change and uncertainty happiness can be a challenge for many. Over the last 2 years many people have reassessed their definition of happiness, the goal posts have changed and so we ask you, what makes you happy?
Ask yourself these questions:
When have I felt happiest in my life?
Who are the people I feel happiest around?
What can I do to share and amplify happiness in the people around me?
What wellspring inside of me brings deep happiness for me?
Exploring and understanding the context behind your happiest moments can help you access more joy.
What are key indicators of a positive and happy company culture?
Happiness promotes engagement in employees and engaged employees are productive. It’s estimated that disengagement costs the global economy and employers billions of dollars every year. If we can create a happy and positive company culture, we can deeply re-engage our people and boost productivity.
However happiness begins with you. It is vital for leaders to first take care of their own wellbeing so that they have enough to give to their teams. In turn this creates an environment where individuals can thrive.
5 things that leaders can do to ensure happiness in the workplace
1. Ask for support - Happiness begins with you. These are challenging times and there will be days where it is hard to access happiness. Create a culture of self-care starting with yourself. If you’re struggling, reach out to a trusted person for emotional support.
2. Listen – create an atmosphere of psychological safety and of open, honest feedback and communication by taking the time to listen and validate your team.
3. Support physical health – most people spend hours each day sedentary at their desk. We know that exercise increases endorphins and makes us happier. Encourage your team to step away from their desks throughout the day, to take ‘walking meetings’ and to move more.
4. Explore meaning – most people are inspired when they engage in work that is meaningful and purposeful. Ask people to share the deeper level of meaning behind the work they’re doing, explore why this work matters and who it supports and serves.
5. Connection – when we feel like we belong, when we feel deeply aligned and connected with those around us, we begin to anchor more happiness. Find the time to connect with your team in ways that hold meaning for them.