Finding happiness at work.
Recently I re-read Delivering Happiness, a book written by Tony Hsieh, former CEO of American online shoe company Zappos.
I’ve long been intrigued by Zappos.
For many years it was listed in Fortune as one of the best companies to work for. Yes, it paid generous salaries, however the reason people clamoured to work there was because of its affinity for making people happy.
Hsieh (pronounced Shay) believed that the key to running a successful business is happiness. Not the happiness that comes from a quick pleasure, but happiness in terms of following a higher purpose. Of having genuine meaning in your life. Of being a part of something that is bigger than you.
There are many ways to find joy and happiness at work – even if you don’t love your job.
Kearney, a global management consulting firm, conducted research that looked at what are the main drivers of joy at work. The top five were:
Feels committed to achieving the company’s vision and strategy for the future
Believes that the company makes a positive societal contribution
Understands the company’s vision and strategy for the future
Celebrates shared success within the team
Feels strong bonds within the team
Of course, my two personal favourite ways to find more happiness at work are:
To find something you love about your job and do that part as many days a week as you can AND
Have a work bestie – someone you can have a laugh with, go for coffee with and commiserate with when times are tough.
How do you find happiness at work?
