Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster
Lisa was falling behind at work. Every morning she woke up nervous about the workday ahead of her. Every evening she went home thinking of all the tasks she hadn’t gotten around to.
Lisa is a 35-year old engineer and project manager at a Danish IT company. With business booming, keeping up had become a struggle – she felt she had to run really fast, to just to stay in place.
With her in-box overflowing and people all around her clamoring for assistance on their projects, she started to look at various productivity tools and systems and quickly settled on the one she’d use. As is typical for Lisa, once she’s decided to do something, she does it, and with new ways of tracking time, improved todo-lists and prioritizing her work, she did notice that she was getting more work done.
But she still felt, that she could be more productive. While she was thinking about her next step, it struck her: Some of what she did, she hated doing.
While she generally enjoyed her job, especially helping people plan their projects and advising them on the best ways to move forward, some of her tasks were administrative in nature. Tracking progress, updating various statics, generating reports, etc… . They didn’t take up that much of her time – but they were a lot less fun. Let’s face it: to Lisa, they were boring as hell.
She talked to her boss about it, and they decided to give those tasks to a project secretary. This freed up a little time for Lisa, but mostly it allowed her to work on those parts of her job that she really liked. Consequently Lisa became a lot happier at work – and THAT’S when her productivity sky-rocketed. Now she had the energy to connect with her people and the creativity to think up and implement new ideas. Instead of feeling stressed and harried, she was optimistic and positive.
While her productivity system had definitely helped her get more done, the productivity boost she got from being happy at work was many times bigger. Lisa is now working way less hours – and getting much more done. And most importantly, she’s enjoying work a lot more!
If you want to get more done at work, the productivity gurus out there will tell you that it’s all about having the right system. You need to prioritize your tasks, you must keep detailed logs of how you spend your time, todo-lists are of course essential, you must learn to structure your calendar and much, much more.
But that’s not where you should start. You should start by liking what you do.
The single most efficient way to increase your productivity is to be happy at work. No system, tool or methodology in the world can beat the productivity boost you get from really, really enjoying your work.
I’m not knocking all the traditional productivity advice out there – it’s not that it’s bad or deficient. It’s just that when you apply it in a job that basically doesn’t make you happy, you’re trying to fix something at a surface level when the problem goes much deeper.
Here are the 10 most important reasons why happiness at work is the #1 productivity booster.
1: Happy people work better with others
Happy people are a lot more fun to be around and consequently have better relations at work. This translates into:
- Better teamwork with your colleagues
- Better employee relations if you’re a manager
- More satisfied customers if you’re in a service job
- Improved sales if you’re a sales person
2: Happy people are more creative
If your productivity depends on being able to come up with new ideas, you need to be happy at work. Check out the research of Teresa Amabile for proof. She says:
If people are in a good mood on a given day, they’re more likely to have creative ideas that day, as well as the next day, even if we take into account their mood that next day.
There seems to be a cognitive process that gets set up when people are feeling good that leads to more flexible, fluent, and original thinking, and there’s actually a carryover, an incubation effect, to the next day.
3: Happy people fix problems instead of complaining about them
When you don’t like your job, every molehill looks like a mountain. It becomes difficult to fix any problem without agonizing over it or complaining about it first. When you’re happy at work and you run into a snafu – you just fix it.
4: Happy people have more energy
Happy people have more energy and are therefore more efficient at everything they do.
5: Happy people are more optimistic
Happy people have a more positive, optimistic outlook, and as research shows (particularly Martin Seligman’s work in positive psychology), optimists are way more successful and productive. It’s the old saying “Whether you believe you can or believe you can’t, you’re probably right” all over again.
6: Happy people are way more motivated
Low motivation means low productivity, and the only sustainable, reliable way to be motivated at work is to be happy and like what you do. I wrote about this in a previous post called Why “motivation by pizza” doesn’t work.
7: Happy people get sick less often
Getting sick is a productivity killer and if you don’t like your job you’re more prone to contract a long list of diseases including ulcers, cancer and diabetes. You’re also more prone to workplace stress and burnout.
One study assessed the impact of job strain on the health of 21,290 female nurses in the US and found that the women most at risk of ill health were those who didn’t like their jobs. The impact on their health was a great as that associated with smoking and sedentary lifestyles (source).
8: Happy people learn faster
When you’re happy and relaxed, you’re much more open to learning new things at work and thereby increasing your productivity.
9: Happy people worry less about making mistakes – and consequently make fewer mistakes
When you’re happy at work the occasional mistake doesn’t bother you much. You pick yourself up, learn from it and move on. You also don’t mind admitting to others that you screwed up – you simply take responsibility, apologize and fix it. This relaxed attitude means that less mistakes are made, and that you’re more likely to learn from them.
10: Happy people make better decisions
Unhappy people operate in permanent crisis mode. Their focus narrows, they lose sight of the big picture, their survival instincts kick in and they’re more likely to make short-term, here-and-now choices. Conversely, happy people make better, more informed decisions and are better able to prioritize their work.
The upshot
Think back to a situation where you felt that you were at peak performance. A situation where your output was among the highest and best it’s ever been. I’m willing to bet that you were working at something that made you happy. Something that you loved doing.
There’s a clear link between happiness at work and productivity. This only leaves the question of causation: Does being productive make us happy or does being happy make us productive? The answer is, of course, yes! The link goes both ways.
But the link is strongest from happiness to productivity – which means that it if you want to be more productive, the very best thing you can do is focus on being happy with what you do?
So how do you get to be happy at work? There are two ways, really:
- Get happy in the job you have. There are about a million things you can do to improve your work situation – provided you choose to do something, rather than wait for someone else to come along and do it for you.
- Find a new job where you can be happy. If your current job is not fixable, don’t wait – move on now!
Related:
- How to find a job you’ll love
- How to lose your fear of being fired
- The feel factor – why no workplace can afford to ignore how people feel
- Kathy Sierra’s brilliant post on why it’s great to be happy
Barry Bell Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 11:33 am
Great article – and yep, the whole happiness at work being a productivity booster seems obvious when you really think about it.
B
Pedro e o Blog | Benefícios Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 2:26 pm
[...] Sem dúvida que alguns benefícios podem trazer alguma felicidade e qualidade de vida. Como consequência desses efeitos, um trabalhador pode realmente ser mais produtivo se estiver mais feliz. [...]
Scott Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 2:28 pm
Mmmm – had a conversation at work today revolving around that happiness is not required – merely an exchange of time for money. Pretty bleak outlook but interesting.
The two ways to improve are easy to say but difficult for many. The old parable of you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make it drink, comes to mind.
Igor Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 2:43 pm
The anecdote in the beginning just made me feel bad for the secretary. Instead of facing up to the crummy parts of her job, Lisa dumped those tasks on a subordinate. While this may make Lisa happy it does not mean that the subordinate is happy, if she works less hours, someone obviously works more. Sure the secretary may enjoy putting together reports, but that is as unlikely as it is likely. I think that people should make the best of the boring parts of an otherwise fulfilling job.
Especially consider Lisa’s job as a project manager; tracking progress, updating various statics, generating reports are essential parts of her job title, perhaps she would be happier in another position where creative managing is more paramount and tracking and reporting are less so.
The Internet Journalist » The Biggest Productivity Improver? Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 5:00 pm
[...] from here [...]
Jawahar Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 7:21 pm
Hapiness? It’s quite simple. Practice Altruism.
Jawahar Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 7:21 pm
Happiness? It’s quite simple. Practice Altruism.
Alexander Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 8:11 pm
Barry: Yeah, doesn’t it?
Scott: That is bleak. I believe that work is about fun first and money second. I also believe that there needn’t be any conflict between the two.
Of course it can be very difficult to get people to actually do something about it – but I did run into a guy the other day who told me he quit his last job partly because of something he read on my blog :o)
Igor: I agree, if you’re just dumping your lousy tasks on someone else, little is gained. But remember that what one person hates, another may really looooove doing.
Jawahar: It’s certainly one of the best ways.
Jaizki Said,
March 27, 2007 @ 10:05 pm
Great post!
Long time ago I wrote a post about doing what you enjoy or what you’re best at (in Spanish sorry!), my conclusion was that you’re best at what you enjoy doing.
viji Said,
March 28, 2007 @ 6:12 am
Excellent post Alex. Well said. Viji
digger Said,
March 28, 2007 @ 4:47 pm
Happiness at work is difficult to achieve, sometimes. I’ve had obstacles, such as office politics and indifference. However, I’ve found out that happiness starts within me. It doesn’t matter if my colleagues are happy or not.
As long as I am happy and able to do my job, I’m productive..
Thanks for the article…
Michael Galpert Said,
March 28, 2007 @ 5:38 pm
I think this is one of the reason google has had such success b/c from what i hear they try to create a happy environment
Steve Roesler Said,
March 28, 2007 @ 7:04 pm
Hi, Alex,
OK, now we have to help people identify just what Happiness or Satisfaction means to them.
I do what I do because it brings me joy. But I had to have a long talk with myself about that first.
Stay happy!
Before you activate Plan B, consider your work attitude - The itzBig Blog - Serving the Unserved – Recruiters, Job Seekers, Quiet Working Professionals Said,
March 28, 2007 @ 10:13 pm
[...] Sure, that may sound like sort of abstract advice, but you should think about it as a specific, proactive tactic. on Alexander Kjerulf’s blog, Chief Happiness Officer, he argues that: “The single most efficient way to increase your productivity is to be happy at work. No system, tool or methodology in the world can beat the productivity boost you get from really, really enjoying your work.” (read the full post here). [...]
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March 28, 2007 @ 11:41 pm
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tv izle Said,
March 29, 2007 @ 9:35 pm
Excellent post Alex. That is wonderfull.
Happiness is the Best Productivity Tool - lifehack.org Said,
March 30, 2007 @ 3:49 pm
[...] Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster – [PositiveSharing] digg_url = ‘http://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/happiness-is-the-best-productivity-tool.html’; ( function() { var ds=typeof digg_skin==’string’?digg_skin:”; var h=80; var w=52; if(ds==’compact’) { h=18; w=120; } var u=typeof digg_url==’string’?digg_url:(typeof DIGG_URL==’string’?DIGG_URL:window.location.href); document.write(“”); } )() Author: Craig Childs Posted: Friday, March 30th, 2007 at 9:49 am Tags: happiness, happy, productivity Share This [...]
JamesT Said,
March 30, 2007 @ 4:02 pm
Happiness certainly is an underrated productivity tool. When I’m on my way to work with a smile on my face, I know my to-do list is in for a beating when I get to work. Thankfully I do something I enjoy, so that’s a great way to stay happy!
Susan Sabo Said,
March 30, 2007 @ 4:06 pm
Hey Alex ~
I can’t agree with you more. Your whole premise of being happy – how radical! How spot-on!
Just found your website via Lifehack where I am a guest writer. My blog – www. productivitycafe.com has Friday @ Five with ideas for rejevenation on the weekends… recognizing that being rested is also key for productivity.
I’m signing up for your RSS feed… namaste!
Susan S.
Caution Ahead Said,
March 31, 2007 @ 8:39 pm
[...] Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster – [PositiveSharing] [...]
David Hollingworth Said,
April 1, 2007 @ 1:43 pm
Yo Alex,
Great post and a great looking book, I look forward to reading it.
I think it’s true to say that no matter how productive we are, in terms of getting things done, if we’re ultimately unhappy then there’s little point in doing these things.
David
Kristof Said,
April 2, 2007 @ 8:46 pm
Alex,
Excellent post and a great looking book, I look forward to reading it.
I am also a firm believer in hapiness as the ultimate tool to increase producivity.
http://leadingyouup.blogspot.com
K
RAJ SHAH Said,
April 3, 2007 @ 9:05 am
Dear sir/madam
Ple give me good feedback.
Yours truely
Raj
RAJ SHAH Said,
April 3, 2007 @ 9:07 am
Dear sir/madam
hello i am raj from india and i want to know about productivity and how to calculation productivity?
so give me good feedback and comments
yours truely
Raj
Bored virgin gets plenty of action... Said,
April 6, 2007 @ 5:09 am
[...] Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. May seem like commonsense for many people, but there are certainly one or two workplaces around that have no idea! [...]
Joseph Bernard Said,
April 7, 2007 @ 3:17 pm
Hi My Happy, I was just reading some writing from the Dalai Lama. He says his work is spread happiness and sees that as a mission worth all of us. Looks like you are on purpose already. The enthusiasm in your writing just jumps out and empowers. Thanks for expressing such aliveness and passion. I am writing a blog on consciousness, inner peace, personal freedom and write because it is my purpose to assist anyone who is interested in being more aware, awake and alive. I can be checked out at http://www.explorelifeblog.com
Keep going, you can make an amazing difference by being who you are. Joseph
Self Improvement and Law of Attraction Link Love, Volume 9 : Today is that Day Said,
April 7, 2007 @ 10:51 pm
[...] 1) Chief Happiness Office – In the post Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster, it is clearly shown that life – and work – are better for the person who actually wants to do whatever it is that they are doing. [...]
Shama Hyder Said,
April 8, 2007 @ 4:53 pm
Alex,
A workplace in Bangkok just implemented nap time and dedicated nap rooms at their firm. They must have read your article. It always pays to feel good!
Curious Cat Management Improvement Blog » Management Improvement Carnival #9 Said,
April 16, 2007 @ 6:36 pm
[...] Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster by Alexander Kjerulf – “When you don’t like your job, every molehill looks like a mountain… When you’re happy at work and you run into a snafu – you just fix it.” [...]
Why Workplace Happiness is Important at The Middle Way Said,
April 22, 2007 @ 1:51 pm
[...] Working in a positive, happy work place, not only are you more productive, less sick and seeing time fly, there’s other aspects. The happy work is more willing to invest time, and make things better, instead of watching things go by. His relations with workers are more fruitful, developing deeper in relation. [...]
Why Workplace Happiness is Important at The Middle Way Said,
April 22, 2007 @ 1:51 pm
[...] Careers staff have been saying it for years “do what you love“. Doing what you love makes you happy, and being happy in the work place is important. In a place where you spend 1/3rd of your waking day, the way you feel about the place is important. Working in a job you dislike, makes the day feel longer, you become more frustrated about the way things are, and you’re also less productive. There’s also a common understanding that when unhappy, you’re also more likely to get sick, as an added bonus. Before even looking at workplace happiness, workplace unhappiness looks pretty scary. Working in a positive, happy work place, not only are you more productive, less sick and seeing time fly, there’s other aspects. The happy work is more willing to invest time, and make things better, instead of watching things go by. His relations with workers are more fruitful, developing deeper in relation. [...]
Matthew Cornell Said,
May 16, 2007 @ 3:04 pm
I agree that happiness is an important component. I also think there are many things that stand in the way, things that are harder for some people to master than others (biochemical concerns come to mind). For me, having a system *allows* me to be happier…
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May 18, 2007 @ 5:49 pm
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May 24, 2007 @ 4:14 am
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June 12, 2007 @ 3:42 pm
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October 26, 2007 @ 10:12 am
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Je hart volgen? — Sanne Roemen Said,
January 5, 2008 @ 6:12 pm
[...] Gelukkig ken ik ook heel veel mensen (steeds meer!) die iets ondernemen zodat zij veel meer kunnen genieten, veel vaker blij kunnen zijn. Dit is geen hedonistisch ideaal. gelukkige mensen leveren een waardevolle bijdrage aan hun omgeving en de maatschappij als geheel. Gelukkige mensen zijn productiever, creatiever, leren sneller, lossen problemen op in plaats van erover te klagen. Blijdschap is aanstekelijk en goed voor de sfeer. Alexander Kjerulf geeft 10 redenen waarom gelukkig zijn de ultieme productiviteits booster is. [...]
Three Sticks — Personal Development for Christians » Blog Archive » The Importance of Following Your Dreams Said,
February 4, 2008 @ 3:38 pm
[...] major productivity booster. According to Alexander Kjerulf over at The Chief Happiness Officer, happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. He gives ten reasons why productivity increases when a person is happy. Essentially, being happy [...]
More death to job titles Said,
March 3, 2008 @ 5:00 pm
[...] Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster [...]
Michael Chriswell Said,
March 22, 2008 @ 5:30 am
For years people have called me “Mr. Happy” or “Mr. Enthusiasm” and everyone just thought I was born that way. What people didn’t know, until now, is that I had developed a highly effective habit of starting everyday “Intentionally”. I never arrived at work without first fueling my mind with something inspirational or motivational. Just like fueling my body with breakfast, I would always fuel my mind and my attitude for the day. It became a habit that literally changed my life! Today, I’m so passionate about encouraging other people to develop this habit, that I spend tons of my own money and time to create highly impactful and inspirational videos for people to start their day with and I do it ALL for FREE, just to make a difference in the small part of the world that I occupy. I am having the time of my life and people are getting addicted to it!www.KickstartMyDay.com
U P B E - Where the science of happiness meets ancient wisdom Said,
April 28, 2008 @ 11:52 am
[...] Positive Sharing) var OutbrainPermaLink=’http://www.upbe.com/article/2008/04/10/104/’; var OB_demoMode = false; [...]
Create Happy Empoyees | Said,
May 8, 2008 @ 6:45 am
[...] organisation was successful in creating a happy employee. Other Readings:- Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster What Makes Employees Happy? Happy Employees Make Productive Employees Are Happy Employees Motivated [...]
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June 16, 2008 @ 9:05 am
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June 18, 2008 @ 6:58 am
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July 11, 2008 @ 10:41 am
[...] Top 10 Reasons Why Happiness at Work is the Ultimate Productivity Booster [...]
Five simple ways to STFU in meetings Said,
July 17, 2008 @ 2:07 pm
[...] Top 10 reasons why being happy at work is the ultimate productivity booster. [...]
Jdocih’s Weblog Said,
July 18, 2008 @ 7:57 am
[...] WordPress.com WordPress.org July 18, 2008, 1:57 pm Filed under: Uncategorized Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster Lisa was falling behind at work. Every morning she woke up nervous about the workday ahead of her. [...]
joy catrine Said,
July 24, 2008 @ 11:16 am
what a great topic!!!
joy cathrine Said,
July 24, 2008 @ 11:17 am
very interesting….
kunbi Said,
July 24, 2008 @ 2:11 pm
we must learn to cope with the pleasant as well as the unpleasant aspects of our job.
Productive Magazine » Blog Archive » Articles in the first Edition of the Productive Magazine Said,
July 31, 2008 @ 12:58 am
[...] Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster [...]
Jacob from JobMob Said,
August 19, 2008 @ 11:34 am
Great post, Stumbled it.
Unfortunately, too many companies don’t put enough emphasis on trying to keep employees happy. Granted, it’s never easy to please everyone but some companies don’t really try.
5 Less Obvious Ways To Ensure A Longer Life - Practical advice on personal development, productivity and GTD Said,
August 24, 2008 @ 5:40 pm
[...] back your hours of work There is a strong correlation between those who work long hours and high blood pressure. Long hours also tend to be associated with stressful jobs. There seems to [...]
Idiocracy [Idiocy + Democracy] » Blog Archive » Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster Said,
September 2, 2008 @ 10:41 am
[...] Taken from here. [...]
The happiness factor | Talking Talent Said,
September 22, 2008 @ 2:21 am
[...] blogger, the Chief Happiness Officer (AKA Alexander Kjerulf), says “the single most efficient way to increase your productivity [...]
Mary Lebowski Said,
November 2, 2008 @ 6:32 pm
Ok. But will there be a follow-up article which gives us ways to cope at work: survival tactics at work?
Backstabbing colleagues who are not to be trusted and incompetent managers is what makes me SAD at work.
A note from the boss Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:11 pm
[...] 1: My most important priority is your happiness and productivity at work. If there’s anything I can do to make you happier and more efficient – tell me right away. This isn’t idealism, it’s good business, because happy people are more productive. [...]
A note from the boss « My Weblog Said,
December 19, 2008 @ 4:26 pm
[...] 1: My most important priority is your happiness and productivity at work. If there’s anything I can do to make you happier and more efficient – tell me right away. This isn’t idealism, it’s good business, because happy people are more productive. [...]
Why Office Bliss Is the Greatest Gift for the Working Crowd | Roy's Elite Membership Site Said,
December 27, 2008 @ 10:26 am
[...] Factor Studies show that when you’re happy at work, you’re more productive, creative, motivated, and energetic. You learn new skills faster. You relate better to managers, [...]
Mudre misli » 10 RAZLOGA ZAŠTO SREĆA POVEĆAVA PRODUKTIVNOST Said,
January 4, 2009 @ 5:07 am
[...] itd. E pa, sve to nema nikakve veze sa životom tvrdi stručnjak za sreću na radnom mjestu, Aleksandar Kjerulf. Ukoliko želite obezbjediti veću produktivnost vaših radnika na radnom mjestu prva stvar koju [...]
Panciuc Said,
January 16, 2009 @ 4:51 pm
really great article! congrats! one more reason to be happy :D
Happy Douglas Said,
February 18, 2009 @ 10:50 pm
I love this artical and totally agree!!! I’m very positive and optomistic. I wish I could carry this artical around with me to help convince people that they would get more out of work and life if they looked on the bright side of things and stayed positive in all they do. Seriously, my name is Happy. :-)
Aldrie Said,
March 4, 2009 @ 2:28 am
This is excellent! It’s not easy to keep people happy as people never get enough.
Happy people are more productive « The Streamlined Office Said,
March 6, 2009 @ 12:33 am
[...] blog is called “Chief Happiness Officer” and it offered this post that we found interesting. Here his top 10 reasons why the productivity depends on happiness: 1: [...]
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March 29, 2009 @ 8:42 am
[...] Chief Happiness Officer – In the post Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster, it is clearly shown that life – and work – are better for the person who actually wants to do [...]
Happiness is like compost … « Don’t Compromise! Said,
June 2, 2009 @ 5:22 pm
[...] Without a shred of irony (which would display too much emotional sang froid), happiness has its cheerleaders. Alexander Kjerulf, editor of the Chief Happiness Officer blog and author or Happy Hour is 9 to 5 – How to Love Your Job, Love Your Life and Kick Butt at Work, doesn’t just ardently – and cheerfully – believe more happiness would be a good idea, he offers us his Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. [...]
A Happy Workplace = Productive Workplace | PINKdot Digital Blog Said,
June 20, 2009 @ 6:40 pm
[...] The combination of my love of design and the life long desire to create the ultimate inspiring and happy work environment, led me to this blog. I really enjoyed reading it and suggest you check it out if you are interested in this topic. http://positivesharing.com/2007/03/top-10-reasons-why-happiness-at-work-is-the-ultimate-productivity… [...]
ml12 Said,
July 9, 2009 @ 1:02 pm
Hey Lisa got a secretary to do the boring work, and Lisa is happy!
How delightful.
Uh, what about the secretary? Was she happy to be made to do the boring work? Was her productivity, boosted too?
Tom Said,
July 20, 2009 @ 12:25 am
Would be nice if all our USA companies would read something positive!
Like the company I work at, Transfreight llc. I think they work harder to make things hard for the employee to be happy in the work place, they always put the blame on Toyota Motor Company and not on them selves, they are always making statements about team work, but never want to play a role in it!
transitvans Said,
August 12, 2009 @ 1:39 pm
this is definitely true! on days where i feel happier, i just feel better about everything in general, including my work :) i feel much more inclined to get on with those difficult tasks which i’ve been putting off; they don’t seem so bad when i’m feeling really cheerful.
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August 13, 2009 @ 1:19 am
[...] Employee happiness is directly correlated to increased productivity. [...]
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August 22, 2009 @ 6:07 pm
[...] Employee happiness is directly correlated to increased productivity. [...]
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October 16, 2009 @ 7:03 pm
[...] Kjerulf — the world’s leading expert on happiness at work — says that your productivity will go up. Extra [...]
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December 8, 2009 @ 2:42 am
[...] From: http://positivesharing.com/2007/03/top-10-reasons-why-happiness-at-work-is-the-ultimate-productivity… [...]
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December 15, 2009 @ 5:45 pm
[...] and author Alexander Kjerulf (self-dubbed Chief Happiness Officer) offers 10 reasons happiness at work is the top productivity booster. Among the benefits of workplace happiness [...]
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December 16, 2009 @ 1:18 pm
[...] and author Alexander Kjerulf (self-dubbed Chief Happiness Officer) offers 10 reasons happiness at work is the top productivity booster. Among the benefits of workplace happiness [...]
10 Tips For A Productive New Year As A Young Pro « Navigating Your Career In Public Relations Said,
January 5, 2010 @ 2:54 am
[...] found a list with 52 tips to help with happiness and productivity on Zen Habits. Happiness is linked to productivity – happy people generally work better with others, are more creative and motivated, are [...]
Lilly Said,
February 1, 2010 @ 3:07 pm
“She talked to her boss about it, and they decided to give those (boring) tasks to a project secretary”
We have several “Lisa’s” at work, who handball shitty tasks to the underdog (me).
Mia Said,
February 6, 2010 @ 11:51 am
I have to say amen to Lilly; I had the same thought when I read the poor assistant was given these boring tasks. Maybe the better solution would be to evaluate whether some of these reports, statistics, whatever are necessary or being duplicated by other reports, statistics, etc.
It’s been my observation that sometimes reports are created at the onset of a project and perhaps a number of people are cc’d on them. The issues are resolved and that project is running smoothly, but the reports remain except now they’ve been transferred to the hapless assistant who does not know why she or he is running them.
The people who are cc’d on these reports no longer look at them because a) the project is running smoothly and there are new projects requiring more attention and b) other people are copied so surely someone else is reviewing them, right? These people leave and then the reports are inherited by a replacement who has absolutely no idea what they are for and either is too busy to ask or if he or she asks, is told not to worry about it since there are more urgent priorities.
Thus a fossil is born.
And yes, I have been the hapless new assistant who asked what this report or that report is used for and been told “I don’t know; just run it.”
On the positive side, it taught me to be a better documenter when it was my turn to create reports. Now I don’t just detail the how and when to run something; I always include the why, and if there is a potential shelf life, I include that too.
salwa munir Said,
February 17, 2010 @ 11:26 am
hi,
i hv gne through ds page n it told me how happy people cn survive mre better. aftr going thrugh ds page i hv decided that i wl stay happy grom nw onwards
take cre
Breaking Geneva Conventions » Blog Archive » Idiotic Programming Internships Said,
April 16, 2010 @ 9:30 pm
[...] suppose this one depends on how you want to run your shop. But, as far as I know, happy workers are more productive (Google knows it as well). You keep your interns happy and they will be more [...]
Ways to Increase Your Productivity | Pepper Virtual Assistants Said,
April 29, 2010 @ 11:14 am
[...] proven that happy workers are more productive ones. And as blogger Alex Kjerulf explains in his post here, once you start liking what you do and enjoying your work, your productivity will [...]
Le Box Said,
May 15, 2010 @ 7:31 pm
[...] “The single most efficient way to increase your productivity is to be happy at work. No system, to… [...]
Joanne DelBalso Said,
May 30, 2010 @ 3:05 am
I totally agree with this article. Since starting my own business i have always had open communication with my staff. i want to ensure they are happy, and comfortable. I am extremely flexible with work hours and I require my staff to put family first before business. So if the kids are sick or are in a play and they need to work around those times… I am fine with it.. They are extremely happy and are productive, appreciative and creative!!!.
Timothy Smith Said,
June 29, 2010 @ 3:00 pm
Great article I always ask people would you rather be around a energetic, fun , positive idea sharing person, or a negative, complaining, woe is me, low energy frump?
Same goes for the workplace doesnt it?
Do whatever you can to liven up the workplace. Inclueded management and staff as well. Just one guys opinion.
The Grand Poobah of Smiles
Smile-Therapy.com
Employees past but should not be forgotten: Five reasons to create an alumni network | Daemon Group Blog Said,
June 30, 2010 @ 6:29 am
[...] are very focused on the engagement and retention of their ‘employees present’. Having a happy work place means a more productive work place with a direct link to the bottom [...]
Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster « c h é r i e Said,
August 19, 2010 @ 10:19 am
[...] leave a comment » Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. [...]
Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster « Best PMP Books Said,
October 20, 2010 @ 8:54 am
[...] Continue reading this wonderful article [...]
Andy Said,
December 15, 2010 @ 4:15 pm
In the story above, “Lisa” became “more productive” because half of her job’s duties were shifted to another employee whose productivity was probably slashed in half because of the extra work dumped on her by “Lisa”.
Head Tale - Friday Fun Link – Making Stairs Fun Said,
January 29, 2011 @ 3:02 am
[...] (including one written by the founder one of the fastest growing companies of the past ten years), blogs and elsewhere, I think there’s a large dose of common sense to believing in fun as [...]
happiness at work | ARoundTuit Organizing & Productivity Said,
January 30, 2011 @ 4:06 am
[...] helping people be happy at work. Here’s Alex’s workplace productivity theory (click here to read the full [...]
Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster Said,
February 24, 2011 @ 10:37 am
[...] (read more) If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it! [...]
Corporate culture (shock) « keepleftlookright Said,
March 12, 2011 @ 9:41 am
[...] who calls himself the Chief Happiness Officer, would likely agree with me. In his list of the Top 10 Reasons Why Happiness at Work is the Ultimate Productivity Booster, he explain the ‘clear link’ between happiness and productivity, and also makes [...]
allisonelainecassidy Said,
March 22, 2011 @ 3:47 am
[...] less, work better with others, etc. For more information on the benefits of loving what you do, see this website. Maybe if everyone in the world followed their dreams and did what they are most passionate about, [...]
Dave Crenshaw Said,
March 22, 2011 @ 6:28 am
Impressive post. People who enjoy and love what they do is most likely to have increase their productivity at work. Being around with these type of people would not only boost your productivity but enliven you as well.
Tim Smith Said,
March 23, 2011 @ 3:53 pm
CHO, my second time reading this article.
This time around I tried to think of all the successful people who had a negative attitude…didn’t come up with many( any).
Also what good things come from a sour attitude, VS. the 134 positive things that come from.. being Positive and Happy.
Easy choice when I wake up.
How about you?
Tim Smith, CEO, Smile-Therapy.com
How to create a fitness center in the workplace | nourishingdiets.com Said,
April 2, 2011 @ 10:15 am
[...] as basic as the ability to exercise easy for your employees is sure to make them happy, which will increase their productivity, thereby helping your [...]
To Find Happiness At Work | A Higher Faith Said,
May 1, 2011 @ 1:14 am
[...] ran across a recent article by Alexander Kjerulf, one of the world’s leading experts on happiness in the work place, which talked about why [...]
“Learning” a new workplace « justenl Said,
May 17, 2011 @ 11:35 am
[...] http://positivesharing.com/2007/03/top-10-reasons-why-happiness-at-work-is-the-ultimate-productivity… [...]
#1 Building Sustainable Ventures « Exit Junkie Said,
June 2, 2011 @ 12:52 pm
[...] in the end. Numerous studies have shown that happy employees make for a more productive crew (1, 2, 3), happy clients spread word of mouth and an embracing local community can promote economic [...]
Why does it take the sun to put a smile on faces? Said,
June 7, 2011 @ 3:39 pm
[...] First of all take a look at the Chief Happiness Officer and his site. [...]
Is Your Glass Half-Empty At Work? « Practical Practice Management Said,
June 20, 2011 @ 5:05 pm
[...] The Happiness Officer’s Advice [...]
Don’t worry, be happy! | Oprius Said,
July 6, 2011 @ 12:33 am
[...] http://positivesharing.com/2007/03/top-10-reasons-why-happiness-at-work-is-the-ultimate-productivity… [...]
Leslie Shreve Said,
July 24, 2011 @ 5:14 pm
Fantastic post! I agree 100%. For those who are indeed happy with their job, career or business, a productivity improvement system will certainly help if people are still struggling with that area of their work. But you’re absolutely right – happiness is key. What’s interesting is that over the past 8 years, I’ve worked with two individuals who, after working on their productivity and completing the consulting/training, have discovered that it wasn’t the lack of productivity holding them back. It was that they didn’t like what they were doing in their job. I love that the consulting process itself revealed this to them and their discovery allowed them to take a step in a new direction – one that would make them happier and more fulfilled.
All I Really Needed to Know About Teamwork I Learned from Harry Potter Said,
July 28, 2011 @ 9:10 pm
[...] relationships with each other. This creates a happy equilibrium in the office, and happy people are much more productive than those who are not. More productivity means more profit – you see where I’m going with [...]
jon Said,
August 23, 2011 @ 1:15 am
Hi Alexander
Nice post, but take a look at here
http://wayneharrel.zielix.com/10-ways-to-increase-your-personal-productivity/
Similar article, but I agree that happiness in your workplace is important. :)
Improve Employees Happiness with Extraordinary Office Design and Unique Organization Culture « widi fajar belajar Said,
September 2, 2011 @ 2:41 pm
[...] A. 2007. Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. [...]
Benefits of Art Therapy - Art Room Melody Said,
September 7, 2011 @ 9:18 pm
[...] offer art therapy sessions to reduce employee stress and help workers clear creative hurdles. A happy employee is productive, a fact that benefits worker and company [...]
Improve Employees Happiness with Extraordinary Office Design and Unique Organization Culture « widifajar|belajar Said,
September 26, 2011 @ 4:46 am
[...] A. 2007. Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. [...]
Top 5 Ways to Happy Workers That Work Harder | CallCenterBestPractices.com Said,
September 28, 2011 @ 5:30 pm
[...] hair loss vitamins at http://www.hair-lossvitamins.com/ to address the problem today! [/hidepost]Successful business have workers that know what to do, want to keep their jobs, and help the busines…s. Whenever you always have new employees and are losing older employees, your business becomes [...]
What Leads Low Productivity at the Work Place? | CallCenterBestPractices.com Said,
September 29, 2011 @ 11:25 pm
[...] out sites http://www.company-formationindia.com & http://www.srcorporateservices.com [/hidepost]Although we understand enthusiasm, excitement, inspiration, motivation and creativity if found at wo…, motivation and creativity, if these are found at work place and each in the right quantity can be [...]
Jo Said,
October 8, 2011 @ 1:57 pm
So the moral of this story:
If you don’t like parts of your job, dump them on someone who earns less than you and doesn’t have the understanding ear of the boss.
Yeah, that’s gonna improve productivity.
Office environments thrive on a pecking order, where anybody with any seniority shunts the boring/time consuming/repetitive tasks down to the person below them. That person accepts the best of a bad lot and then shunts the remainder on down to (eventually) the poor admin at the bottom whose 9-5 is boring unappreciated drudgery.
Having worked my way from the bottom to the middle, I have seen the process happening in several offices.
The article seems to suggest that it is OK to shove all the horrible tasks on someone else, instead of sharing the load.
It is also making a few really weird assumptions:
The boss appears to care about the happiness of their employee (!)
The boss appears to be willing to listen (and act) on suggestions from their subordinates (!!)
Presumably the secretary/admin now does 1.5 peoples work. Do they get paid 1.5x the salary?
The employee is now skipping about happily being more productive (which is great), but… what happens next time they come across a boring task? Presumably they just spit their dummy out again, and get someone else to it…
Cynical? Yes, I am – it is bourne out of experience.
The New All-Natural Productivity Drug – Are You Doing It? | John's Internet Marketing Blog Said,
October 22, 2011 @ 8:17 pm
[...] my Blog, go check it out after you let me know what you think about this post in the comments below!Who would have thought working less hours meant getting more done? That’s why we have drugs in t…less hours meant getting more done? That’s why we have drugs in the world! Right? In today’s [...]
What really makes the world go round? « casonlineblog Said,
October 25, 2011 @ 4:43 pm
[...] that happy people make the workplace a better place I did a little research. I found the “Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster” by Alexander Kjerulf AKA The Chief Happiness Officer. So here [...]
Brian Pearson Said,
October 27, 2011 @ 2:46 am
Suppose that instead of dumping on another employee, the superior hires a person who is detail-oriented and doesn’t mind what others call “tedium.” Also, if such a person were to be hired for that purpose, then I believe that person should be given more benefits, however that may be defined. It seems to me anyone in a mid management position should be greatly appreciative of the new person doing the tedious grunt work.
Happiness and productivity – why is some stuff boring? Said,
November 15, 2011 @ 5:02 pm
[...] article gives the example of ‘Lisa’ who, feeling demotivated and disengaged, identifies the [...]
Finding Your Best Job Is About More Than Money | Line Of Work Said,
December 5, 2011 @ 8:32 am
[...] lower expectations so that you can spend more time dedicated to the things that truly bring you happiness? Studies have shown that happy people live longer. And even if it isn’t true, at least the [...]
Happiness in the Workplace | nowglad.com Said,
January 5, 2012 @ 5:13 pm
[...] Kjerulf, Alexander. “Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster .” Best of site, Happy At Work . 4 Jan. 2012. Chief Happiness fficer: Alexander Kjerulf. 27 Mar. 2007 http://positivesharing.com/2007/03/top-10-reasons-why-happiness-at-work-is-the-ultimate-productivity…. [...]
Work-Life Balance, 5 Ways on How I Do It | Cairyn Orido Said,
January 12, 2012 @ 7:36 pm
[...] their families tend to be happier. In addition, happiness plays a great role in a person’s productivity and self-motivation. If they’re very happy with their lives, are highly motivated with their [...]
Surani Dias Said,
January 31, 2012 @ 5:46 am
I am very interested in the topics Productivity and Managing our emotions. This blog has given a lot of thought for this topic and need to research further. Yes I believe being happy is productive but what about those who are unhappy and the organization is not getting the output as required as a result. What could we do to imporve productivity among those who are negative and unhappy.
4 Arguments for Having a Job You Love | Cachinko Said,
February 10, 2012 @ 3:47 pm
[...] it pays to love your job. In his blog, Chief Happiness Officer, Alexander Kjerulf explains why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. In the end, happy people are more creative, work better, have more energy, fix problems, and are [...]
How to Create a Healthy Office Atmosphere | Business People Blog Said,
February 14, 2012 @ 6:06 am
[...] want their work to be the cause of their agony. As a business owner, it is your responsibility to make the workplace productive and healthy at all times. Don’t freak out. You’re not going to be an instant guidance [...]
Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster | Be Happy Said,
February 14, 2012 @ 1:10 pm
[...] Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. No [...]
Why We Focus on Fun « JM Wilson Blog Said,
February 21, 2012 @ 3:51 pm
[...] face, and makes all of your interactions throughout the day even better. Alexander Kjerulf, from Chief Happiness Officer Blog , states that “happy people work better with others..translates into: more satisfied [...]
Happiness Bonus | Change Meme Said,
April 18, 2012 @ 11:20 am
[...] There’s a bunch of research out there confirming my observation, Alexander Kjerulf cites research connecting happiness to lower rates of sickness, higher creativity levels, better team work and other factors that all contribute to a more productive team in his article “Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster“. [...]
Defining your priorities Said,
April 26, 2012 @ 11:37 am
[...] with their families tend to be happier. In addition, happiness plays a great role in a person’s productivity and self-motivation. If they’re very happy with their lives, are highly motivated with their [...]
Trabajo en Equipo Said,
May 1, 2012 @ 5:19 pm
[...] al resto. Entonces, ¿qué hacer para evitar estos problemas? La respuesta es simple1: Ser felices en el [...]
Technology Is As Technology Is | Nick's Blog Said,
May 1, 2012 @ 7:44 pm
[...] softball team because they are afraid it will reflect badly on them were already unhappy. Happy people work harder. Money is one of those things that is very important when you do not have any of it. We [...]
Grapevine Designs Said,
May 11, 2012 @ 9:07 pm
[...] (source) Previous post Next post [...]
E-Web Marketing Sydney Office Tour Said,
September 6, 2012 @ 1:16 am
[...] workplace, are actually more productive than workers in structured environments. From the expert Alexander Kjerulf (AKA Chief Happiness Officer), best selling author of, “Happy Hour is 9 to 5″, happy [...]
Get Happier at Work | Berks & Beyond | Berks & Beyond Blog Said,
October 4, 2012 @ 2:15 pm
[...] Happy people work better with others. They’re more creative, learn faster and make better decisions on the job. Bottom line, [...]
Happy Workers Are More Productive » Jesús Gil Hernández Said,
January 1, 2013 @ 10:50 am
[...] The post Top 10 reasons why happiness at work is the ultimate productivity booster. [...]
Happiness and productivity | Steljes Business Productive Technology Said,
January 10, 2013 @ 4:32 pm
[...] fundamentally you need to start by liking what you do, and this is the most efficient way to increase your [...]
| Happy employees equals happy customers Said,
January 31, 2013 @ 10:24 pm
[...] Just in case you’re not completely sold yet, here are 10 reasons why happiness (and fun) at work boosts productivity. [Read the full article here.] [...]
Nicolas Said,
February 28, 2013 @ 12:14 am
Well I can definitely see how perfect that would apply to any company… and anyway, I guess that even without these 10 reasons it makes sense that a happy environment will help better work (i.e. more productive work) as opposed to a stressful/sad/pessimistic environment. With positive thoughts you always get further than with negative thoughts.
Intentional diversity: 3 ways to create organizational strength and talent resiliency » Capstone Sourcing Center, Inc. Said,
February 28, 2013 @ 7:27 pm
[...] How do you draw the best out of your existing workforce? It is no secret that happy employees are more passionate and productive. But the jury is out as to what HR can do to make people happy, and no, throwing money and perks [...]
Do What Makes You Happy | Simply College Said,
March 24, 2013 @ 9:16 am
[...] Best selling author, Alexander Kjerulf, is one of the world’s leading experts on happiness at work and he shares with us the reasons why happiness boosts productivity: [...]