As we step into the latter half of 2023, a refreshing breeze of positivity sweeps over workplaces worldwide, heralding the arrival of the International Week of Happiness at Work. From September 25 to 29, 2023, organisations across the globe will come together to celebrate this week-long event dedicated to employee happiness and well-being. The primary goal is clear: to raise awareness of the profound impact that happiness at work can have on productivity, engagement, innovation, and overall employee retention.

Research consistently shows that happy employees are more productive and committed to their jobs. According to a study by the University of Warwick, happiness in the workplace can boost productivity by a remarkable 12%. As companies grapple with the challenges of a rapidly changing work landscape, nurturing employee happiness is not merely a nicety but a strategic imperative.

So, what can organisations do to promote happiness at work?

The answers lie in creating supportive environments and offering opportunities for growth, acknowledgment, and work-life balance. Employees should feel safe to express themselves, be recognised for their contributions, and have room to develop their skills. It’s about fostering positive relationships, offering support when needed, and creating a culture that prioritises well-being.

International Week of Happiness at Work offers senior executives a unique opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to employee happiness. Hosting events and activities during this week can make a profound impact on the morale and satisfaction of employees. Some ideas include team-building activities, wellness workshops, happiness challenges, potluck lunches, and social events. These activities not only infuse joy into the workplace but also promote team cohesion and camaraderie.

The science of workplace happiness: insights from experts

To shed further light on the significance of happiness at work, How To Be Books reached out to a panel of experts and authors:

In the pursuit of workplace happiness, it becomes evident that there are various facets that contribute to the overall well-being of employees. Matt Phelan, author of “The Happiness Index: Why Today’s Emotions Equal Tomorrow’s Business Success,” sheds light on the significance of understanding the driving forces behind employee happiness. Phelan, who also hosts the Happiness and Humans podcast, highlights key factors such as psychological safety, acknowledgment, freedom, and positive relationships, emphasising that creating an environment that caters to these elements is essential.

Similarly, Allison Walsh, the author of “She Believed She Could: Show Up, Shine Bright, and Achieve Abundant Success,” advocates for a different approach. As Vice President of Charlie Heath, she encourages individuals to align their work with their inherent strengths and passions. Walsh believes that the transformative power of positive psychology in leadership can have a profound ripple effect, ultimately fostering happiness within the workplace.

Strategies for cultivating happiness at work

Craig Siegel, known for his book “The Reinvention Formula: How to Unlock a Bulletproof Mindset to Upgrade Your Life,” offers insights on finding happiness at work through alignment with one’s purpose. For Siegel, it’s not just about going through the motions but making a significant impact and genuinely enjoying the journey. The Cultivate Lasting Symphony founder underlines the importance of reaching a point where work no longer feels like a chore but a labour of love.

Drawing inspiration from the great philosopher Aristotle, David Naylor, author of “Rebooting Your Brain: Using Motivational Intelligence to Adjust Your Mindset, Reach Your Goals, and Realize Unlimited Success,” delves into the concept of happiness at work. Naylor believes that it emerges from the pursuit of growth and fulfillment. Naylor, who also happens to be executive vice president at 2logical, encourages individuals to take responsibility for their career growth and embrace their weaknesses as opportunities for personal development.

The ripple effect of workplace happiness

In contrast, Liz Elting, author of “Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business,” follows a different path to happiness at work. The TransPerfect co-founder advocates for the relentless pursuit of one’s passion, acknowledging that it often entails hard work. However, Elting believes that the joy and pride derived from seeing dreams materialise, along with helping others along the way, bring immeasurable happiness.

Lastly, Pandit Dasa, the author of “Mindfulness For the Wandering Mind: Life-Changing Tools for Managing Stress and Improving Mental Health At Work and In Life,” underscores the vital role of workplace culture. The former monk reiterates the necessity of prioritising mental, emotional, and physical well-being within organisations. He places particular importance on creating an environment that fosters psychological safety, appreciation, and respect, as these factors are pivotal in nurturing a happy and productive work atmosphere.

As we enter the International Week of Happiness at Work 2023, it is clear that fostering employee well-being and happiness is not just an aspiration but a fundamental requirement for organisations aiming for long-term success. By embracing the principles and insights shared by these experts, corporations can create workplaces where everyone thrives, ultimately reaping the benefits of a happier and more productive workforce. It’s a win-win scenario for both employees and companies, and it all starts with a commitment to happiness at work. On that note, check out our interview with Crazy Busy author and psychologist Thijs Launspach.

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