Secret Science of Happiness at Work (or anywhere)

Welcome to The Shift, a weekly newsletter where I provide thought-provoking ideas to help you think differently about your career and money.

Before I pass the reigns to Kate, I wanted to thank her for letting me share a taste of her awesome newsletter with you. I’m a big fan of her content, so I have a feeling you will like it too!

About Kate: Kate is a productivity educator and leadership coach. She helps mid-senior team leaders free up time from bad busy work for 30% more time and fun after work.

Kate adds a twist to her insights by combining her impressive 15-year corporate career with 10-years as a junior tennis player.

If you like what you read below, please consider following her on LinkedIn - or better yet, subscribe to her newsletter here!

Unhappiness Abound

I read in Forbes, only 2 out of 10 people are happy at work. That’s a huge productivity loss — for both you and the company you work for.

It's sad because we spend 1/3 of our lifetime working.

We've all heard the phrase "create your own happiness."

It's easier said than done.

Nobody explains how and why it's actually possible.

Many of us expect our company, boss, and team to change.

But that’s a lost cause.

In 2020, I took a course on the science of happiness. It gave the exact steps to be happy at work (or anywhere).

¿? the why

I learned why happiness is truly within from Sonja Lyubormirsky's research.

Our genetics and actions determine 90% of our happiness.

What's even more exciting, our actions decide which genes we activate. Surprisingly, our environment affects only 10% of our happiness. That's why so many remain unhappy in the most fantastic workplaces.

Ultimately, external factors cannot make us happy. But we can.

Just like productivity, happiness is an inner game.

⏱️The How

I built my happiness (and productivity) at work using 3 levels. It works for me and my clients.

1. Acceptance - foundation

Define 5 essential ingredients of your work "happiness soup."

Why? It teaches to distinguish between nice-to-have and must-have.

2. Self-care - structure

Identify your 3 key strengths: take tests, ask your manager, team, peers, etc.

Why? It reveals your sources of motivation, joy, and control.

3. Service - roof

Ask your team how these 3 strengths bring them value.

Why? It adds daily meaning to your work.

🏆Wins

You'll:

1. Join the 20% of happy people at work.

2. Boost productivity by at least +12%.

3. Be happy and productive in any environment (change is a constant).

Play of the Week

Craft your work happiness!

1. What ingredients make up your work "happiness soup?"

2. What are your top 3 strengths, and how do you leverage them?

3. How do you use your strengths to benefit others?

Awesome insights Kate! 🙏 

Let’s make The Shift!

Lindsey