Tips for spreading smiles in the office
Since 2013, the United Nations (UN) has been inviting people to celebrate the International Day of Happiness on March 20, an initiative that focuses on the important role this emotion plays in people’s lives.
And there is no better place to start living that happiness than in the work environment. That’s why we don’t want to do it only on this important date. How about trying to be a little happier every day?
What are the benefits of happiness at work?
The relationship between happiness and health is well documented. A report from the University of California confirms that the two go hand in hand, citing a number of positive results, including improvements in heart function and the immune system, and even talk of a longer life.
A study from the University of Warwick in the UK described happy workers as 12% more productive.
Happiness can also reduce absenteeism rates. According to research from Illinois Wesleyan University, happy employees recover more quickly from illness and tend to take 15 fewer days off per year than their colleagues with less positive attitudes.
It’s not the boss who enjoys the benefits of happiness. The same Illinois Wesleyan University study found that people with a more positive outlook tend to earn more than their less positive colleagues, suggesting that happiness may account for a larger salary.
Clearly, happiness creates a win-win situation in a work environment. So, we leave you with five simple ways to bring positivity and happiness to the place where we typically spend the most time of our lives, work.
5 simple ways to bring positivity and happiness to the workplace
1. Greet colleagues at work with a smile
Research published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that connecting with other people, even strangers, increases personal happiness.
With this in mind, a good way to set the mood is to greet colleagues with a cheerful “hello”; do something different and offer a warm “good morning” to the front desk clerk, the office intern or the executive with whom you share the elevator. It spreads well-being throughout the company!
2. Recognize the efforts of colleagues
Recognition gives anyone a boost, but on a busy workday with little time to spare, praise tends to be omitted. Setting aside a few minutes to congratulate or acknowledge another’s work can not only boost happiness, but also have a positive impact on productivity.
3. Surprise with kindness
Random acts of kindness offer a “two-in-one” advantage. According to Harvard Business School, a kind person feels happier, and the person receiving the kindness also feels a little happier. Buy a surprise coffee for a colleague on the way to work, help a colleague finish a project on time, or offer to unlock a piece of paper at the printer instead of turning a blind eye to difficulties at the copier.
4. Make the world a better place
Giving makes people feel good. Harvard University confirmed this with a study showing that giving to charity is directly related to personal happiness. Introduce the idea into your company, but, instead of just “passing the hat” for a quarter, try holding an inclusive, fun-filled event.
Try selling homemade cakes made by the accounting team, accompanied by coffee or tea prepared by the sales staff, allowing everyone to participate in the activity.
5. Enjoy the lasting benefits of happiness
One of the greatest benefits of happiness is that, like laughter, it can be contagious. Don’t be surprised if any happiness initiative you introduce spreads throughout the year.