Increase Happiness in the Workplace, Increase Productivity

Are your employees feeling down?

A recent survey found 45% of U.S. workers are satisfied with their jobs, down from 52% in 2005, and 61% in 1987.

Feelings of stress, being overworked, and anxiety can lead to life threatening illnesses like cardiovascular disease and depression.

Discontent in the office can also hinder the bottom line: A 2004 study found teams with sunny moods who encouraged each other earned higher profit and better customer-satisfaction ratings.

A good mood is also good for the brain: A study from the University of Michigan found that people who are experiencing joy or contentment are able to think more broadly and creatively than people with negative emotions.

And a survey in the Psychological Bulletin found happier people miss work less often and receive more positive evaluations from bosses.

An increasing number of employers have hired trainers, or “happiness coaches,” to inspire workers to take on a more positive attitude.

To help employees increase their mood—and increase productivity in the workplace—try sending the following tips via e-mail, or tack up posters with these daily mood boosting reminders from happiness coaches:

1. Fake it until you feel it: Research suggests that smiling and being pleasant at work can actually catch up to you and make you feel happier as the day goes on.

2. Meditate once a day to relax and focus.

3. Do something nice for a co-worker (grab a cup of coffee, offer to pay for lunch) without expecting anything in return.

4. Write a list of things you are thankful for and look at it when you get into the office each morning.

5. Compliment your co-workers! Saying something nice will lift both of your spirits.

6. Keep an open mind. Don’t shy away from office events, luncheons, or getting involved in committees at work. You never know if something positive will come from the gathering.