Many of us spend a significant portion of our lives at work, dedicating about nine hours each day. It’s where we invest a lot of our time, energy and aspirations. Yet, despite this dedication, statistics reveal that only 56.7% of people report being happy in their jobs. This makes us wonder, what causes the unhappiness for the remaining percentage? Could it be the long hours at work, the lack of essential benefits like insurance or perhaps the management’s lack of attention to one’s overall wellbeing?
Swastika Ramamurthy, corporate trainer and partner, Anekataa, Bengaluru, says, “Our work is a clear product of our values, beliefs and competence. The more aware individuals are of the ‘why’ of their existence, the purpose for which they are doing what they are doing, the more driven they would be to strive towards their own sense of satisfaction and wellbeing.”
Clearly, finding happiness at work is possible by identifying tasks that one enjoys and finding purpose in one’s role. In addition to this, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and managing stress in the workplace also matters. Join us as we explore how we can have a more positive and fulfilling experience at work, where each day feels rewarding.
Finding meaning in your work
Many of us go to work every day without fully realising the positive impact that we make. Or how important our contributions are in the bigger picture for our organisation. In fact, discovering a sense of purpose in our job can make a big difference in how happy we feel at it. When we see how our work helps others or contributes to a larger goal, it adds meaning to our daily tasks.
Whether you’re assisting customers, supporting a cause or finding new ways to solve an existing problem, connecting what you do to a greater purpose can bring a sense of satisfaction and motivation. As Ramamurthy states, “There may be times when employees feel a lack of drive and step back, questioning their own abilities, their roles and their reasons for being where they are. Helping people to reflect and to connect to their ‘why’, the purpose for which they are striving will enable greater clarity, sense of alignment and energy to carry on.”
Celebrating achievements
How many of us actually celebrate our little successes at work? Be it an appreciation from our manager or an email by the organisation thanking us for being part of the team that worked tirelessly to complete a project? Recognising and celebrating the success of employees, no matter how big or small, helps create a positive and happy work environment. Taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate achievements within the team can motivate people to strive for more success while building the happiness quotient for each individual.
Seeking feedback for growth
At times, we may find ourselves getting complacent at work and not actively seeking improvement. This is where feedback comes to our rescue. Positive and well-structured feedback can work wonders and shake off the feeling of monotony one might be experiencing. In fact, asking for feedback from colleagues or mentors is essential for personal and professional development. Constructive feedback helps us build skills and excel in our careers and this, in turn, contributes to our happiness.
Maintaining work-life balance
Balancing your work responsibilities while taking care of yourself is a really important part of staying happy and productive. When you set boundaries to protect your personal time, you create a healthy balance between work and the rest of your life. This helps you regularly recharge, stay motivated, and feel happier, all of which contribute to you doing your best at work. Finding this balance makes your life more satisfying and overall enjoyable.
Using paid time off wisely
Many of us deny ourselves the simple joys of life, even when organisations offer us leaves and time off. Instead of making the most of it, be it vacation days, sick leaves or personal days, we tend to be hyper and try to finish too many errands to make it look productive as well. But we must use this time to relax, rest and enjoy activities that bring us happiness outside of work. Taking a break from work helps reduce stress, prevents burnout and allows us to return to work feeling refreshed, motivated and happier.
Communicate with your boss
It’s incredibly important to communicate how we feel to our managers. If we have any concerns or issues at work, speaking up allows us to find solutions together. Communication is the bridge of understanding between employees and their managers. It helps create a culture of mutual respect and support. And consequently, it leads to growth and success of all parties involved.
Incorporating these strategies into your daily work routine can cultivate a more fulfilling and satisfying experience. Following these tips will lead you to feel appreciated, happy and balanced in both, your professional and personal life, simultaneously enhancing your wellbeing.
FAQs
How can I find happiness at my workplace?
You can find happiness at work by identifying tasks that you enjoy and finding purpose in your role. In addition to this, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and managing stress in the workplace will also bring contentment.
What role does recognition play in workplace happiness?
Feeling recognised and appreciated for your contributions boosts workplace happiness.
How does corporate wellbeing impact happiness?
When employees feel valued and respected, their morale and job satisfaction increase.
Why is work-life balance important for happiness at work?
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance prevents burnout, reduces stress and enhances one’s overall wellbeing. It gives people a sense of purpose.