We spend so much of our time at work.  How can we make the best of it while we are there and even make good choices for us, individually, when accepting jobs in the first place.  

Transcript:

Welcome to Everyday Happiness where we create lasting happiness, in 2 minutes a day,  through my signature method of Intentional Margins® (creating harmony between your to-dos and your priorities), happiness science, and musings about life. 

I'm your host Katie Jefcoat and I’ve been wondering about work lately and our pursuit of happiness.  If you recall, happiness is a 2-pronged definition.  It’s those happy emotions like joy and elatement and it’s also the second prong of satisfaction and purpose.  

Work, as in a “productive human endeavour” will create a sense of purpose in life.   So, what the research indicates is that being unemployed is bad for happiness and there is a sliding scale to good jobs and bad jobs.  Arthur Brooks says “What makes work meaningful is not the kind of work it is, but the sense it gives you that you are earning your success and serving others.” 

The science around work and well-being seems to indicate that if people can remain flexible on the exact job, while searching for the values and culture that fit with theirs, they will create a work-life that is more or less satisfying, purposeful and happy.  

It’s not a one-size fits all approach.  If you told me I had to be an accountant, I would be very unhappy, but there are lots of accountants that are very happy in their work.  The same can be said for the cashier and the lawyer.  One is not happier than the other.  The actual job really doesn’t matter if you find a sense of accomplishment within that job. 

Significant research indicates that pay doesn't reflect happiness. Although, unemployment is bad for happiness.  Getting a raise will only boost happiness for a little bit and you will baseline again.  

One goal Authur Brooks says you can go to increase your happiness at work is to pursue a goal of service to others.  He says “ the sense that your job is making the world a better place” is exactly the type of satisfaction and purpose that boosts happiness.   And he says, you can find service in almost every job.  Perhaps it’s just being a helpful team player with your colleagues.  

Today, I invite you to think about how you can increase your happiness at work by helping someone on your team or reminding yourself of your input at your work that serves the larger values of your company.   I am confident that what you are doing is making a difference - don’t forget, everyone has a role to play. 

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