Finding your happy place at work: 3 tips for a happier you

Work. It’s something we all have to do. And by now we might have been doing this work thing for 20 or (gulp) 30 years. What’s even scarier – with current retirement ages, we could have almost the same again still to go.

With typical work schedules we spend more days at work than home. So it’s no wonder then that or workplaces can have such an impact on our overall wellbeing. In fact, next week is International happiness at work week. They have a cute little manifesto poster as well!

So when I’m talking about being happy here, I don’t mean you are going to be singing and dancing all over the office (though go you if that’s how you vibe!)

Happiness at work can mean:

Now let’s get something clear before we go any further.

Like all of our self-care and wellbeing experiences, happiness is personal, and can be different from situation to situation.

• Being happy to go to work rather than dreading it

• Feeling stretched and enjoying a challenge

• Having colleagues you get on with and trust

• Feeling like you are making a difference

• Doing work that fits with your values

• Feeling safe to be yourself

Your workplace isn't just a spot to collect a paycheck—it can be a happy place too. So, grab your coffee and let's dive into what makes work-life happiness tick and how you can boost it.

Why does happiness at work matter?

First off, why does happiness at work even matter? It's not just about rainbows and unicorns (though those are nice too!). When you're happy at work, it's like a ripple effect that touches every aspect of your life.

💡Improved Wellbeing

Happiness at work directly impacts your overall wellbeing. When you're happy, stress levels drop, your immune system gets a boost, and you feel more energized. It's like a natural vitamin for your body and mind!

💡Productivity and Creativity

Ever noticed how your best ideas often pop up when you're feeling good? Happiness fuels creativity, making you more productive and innovative. You'll find solutions faster and ace those challenging projects.

💡Better Relationships

Happy workers tend to be more approachable and better team players. This means smoother interactions with colleagues, less office drama, and more meaningful connections.

How can you create more happiness at work?

So, how do you make your workspace a hub of happiness? Here are three practical tips:

1. Cultivate Positive Relationships

Remember that saying, "It's not what you know, but who you know"? Well, it holds true in the workplace too. Building positive relationships with your colleagues and supervisors can be a game-changer. It's like having a built-in support system. So, make an effort to:

• Engage in small talk: Get to know your co-workers beyond their job titles.

• Be a good listener: Show genuine interest in what others have to say.

• Offer help: A helping hand can go a long way in fostering a positive atmosphere

2. Find Purpose in Your Work

Ever heard the phrase "do what you love, and you'll never work a day in your life"? I think it’s a tad overrated as a sentiment – in my experience when we do what we love it shifts from being a fun and pleasant hobby to a job which isn’t quite as much fun. However, that being said, it’s an infinitely better experience doing something that you feel matters to you, and that you feel valued for. While it's not always possible to land your dream job, finding meaning in what you do can make a world of difference. To infuse purpose into your work:

• Understand your impact: Reflect on how your role contributes to the bigger picture.

• Set personal goals: Aim for achievable milestones to give your work a sense of direction.

• Seek new challenges: Stepping out of your comfort zone can reignite your passion for your job.

3. Take Care of Your Wellbeing

Your health and happiness go hand in hand. It's essential to prioritize self-care amidst your busy work schedule. Don't forget to:

• Manage your workload: Avoid overcommitting and learn to say no when necessary.

• Embrace breaks: Regular breaks, even short ones, can boost your focus and reduce stress.

• Foster a work-life balance: Make time for hobbies, friends, and family outside of work.

Remember, finding happiness at work isn't a one-size-fits-all journey. It's about discovering what works best for you and adapting it to your unique situation. Sometimes, it may take a bit of trial and error. But embracing the ethos of experimentation throughout life is a great way to feel comfortable trying new things and finding your own personal ingredients for happiness.

In a nutshell, your workplace doesn't have to be a happiness-free zone. By nurturing positive relationships, finding purpose in your work, and taking care of your wellbeing, you can turn your job into something that adds to your life positively (beyond the paycheck!) rather than draining you completely.

So, go ahead, take these tips to heart, and start your journey toward a happier, more fulfilling work life. You've got this! 😊

And if you want to have support on this journey book a free insight call here and we can chat.