Happiness Generators

A recently released book on happiness suggests that there are five things that people can do to make themselves happier.   The author of Happiness by Design conducted research which reveals that these five activities increase one’s happiness:   listening to music, spending more time with friends, trying something new, being outdoors, and helping someone else. I like to call these practices 'Happiness Generators'.

In my talent management experience, I've discovered that life's happiness generators are very similar to the elements that create engagement and satisfaction in employees.   The first happiness generator the author supports is listening to music.  That’s because it’s stimulates the brain.  Employees, likewise, need stimulation.  That can come in the form of a challenging assignment or interesting project. Employees also like knowing that they are doing something meaningful.   

Another happiness factor mentioned in the book was spending time with friends.  In the workplace we benefit in many ways from teamwork and collaboration.  We learn from each other, support each other, or even develop meaningful relationships that transcend work.  We become better thinkers, problem solvers, and communicators.  Even a person who has an isolated job needs occasional interaction with others. Granted, everyone doesn’t prefer teamwork, but they still benefit from it.  

The author also mentions trying new things as a means of increasing happiness.  For employees, new assignments, tasks, or projects can be motivating.  I’m not suggesting you dump even more work on an already overwhelmed, under-resourced team member.   Rather, identify a person who performs a repetitive role and give her a chance to be exposed to something different.  It can be just the thing to get her out of a rut, and drive her towards higher levels of productivity.  It also signals to employees that you trust them and care about their development.   

Being outdoors is another way to achieve a happier existence.  Sometimes it’s just a simple change of scenery that can help an employee recharge their commitment and revive their performance.  I’ve surveyed participants in many of my workshops who told me they are at their best – creative, focused, and content – when they are going things other than work.  They told me they are at their best when they are jogging, gardening, or sunbathing.  That tells me that the great outdoors can have a great impact.  For most businesses, it’s not realistic to allow employees to work outside all day. Nevertheless, many of Fortune’s 100 Best Places to Work sponsor or support – onsite and offsite picnics, outdoor concerts, walking clubs, and jogging groups.  

The last happiness generator discussed in Happiness By Design is helping someone else.  Making a difference in the lives just feels good.  There is a natural sense of pride and satisfaction in service.  It also helps a person be less self-absorbed, at least for the time being.  If you have an employee that’s disgruntled and whiny, find him a work-related community service project to help him focus on something besides himself.

These principles work with employees, team members, associates, board members and even volunteers. Giving them something more increases the likelihood that they will give you something more in return.  They’ll be better poised to give you their best efforts and best results everyday.