How to be happy at work ?

It was very interesting an eye catching to catch an article from Harvard Business Review  reported in 2019 which spoke of the important factors that helped one to be more happy at work. It was the result of research carried out by Rob Cross, Professor at Babson College. Click here

The author through the paper tries to highlight the important points that led to happiness at work.

1. Work in one or two non-work committees or activities, example is being member of some sports club or cultural group or some social organisations doing voluntary work.

2. Making time for non-work commitments or relationships, outside work broadens one's perspective - helps sustain mental and physical energy. I do some voluntary work every three months, donating blood etc, that keeps me energised throughout the year.

3. Spend more time on relationships that helps us or the family. Our professional relationships are beneficial for getting benefits or promotions etc, which can be short lived. On the other hand broadening personal relationships are much more long lived than professional relationships. 

4. Block time regularly for carrying out energising projects, breaks, vacation or relaxation. Writing blogs on interesting professionally topics for the benefit of my students, friends and relatives, to society and world at large gives me great satisfaction and happiness. 

5. Creating rules as to when to check mails / social media daily. Being disciplined at using time gainfully and productively helps in the long run. 

6. Shift from professional to personal space at the end of day. In other words it is as good as saying dont take work home. Practice good work-life balance.

Social connections play a central role in fostering sense of purpose and well being at the workplace. 

Most of the people do not have a goal or aim in life which often leads to a less productive life.  The HBR author Rob Cross writes,

“Playing defense [means] you are always reactive and living in fear. The only way to get out of it is to get clarity on who you are and what you want to do, and start forging a path and network that enable you to get there.”

It is people, not perfect job that leads to fulfilment in life.

We need to invest in relationships that will keep us happy throughout our professional life and even afterwards.

George..