How to Find Happiness at Work

Do you find it hard to find happiness at your job? Generally the attitude towards work is a negative one. Long hours, horrible bosses, and mundane water cooler talk… Well stop right there! Work doesn’t have to be a drag, in fact, work should be a fulfilling, enjoyable experience. Yes, it is possible find happiness at work…

The Danish have received a lot of press lately for a unique cultural phenomenon– “arbejdsglæde” which translates to “happiness at work.” The Danish try to make work something that is fulfilling for everyone and that brings happiness. We know the importance of finding happiness at work, and to be a successful recruiter, it helps to look at the Danish model of employment.

It is a common belief, between companies and recruiters alike, that working more hours equals more productivity. Vacations are either not taken at all or employees will continue to work during vacation by answering emails, calls and texts. They even risk their own health and that of their colleagues by going to work when ill rather than taking a sick day. It’s no wonder that this is contributing to unhappiness and burnout.

A recent Gallup poll found another indication of burnout: 18% of US workers are actively disengaged. The Danish had only 10%. Let’s find out why.

The average Danish worker works 1,540 hours each year. They get six weeks of vacation, several holidays and 18-weeks maternity and 2-weeks paternity paid leave. The average US worker works 1,790 hours each year. Most have only two weeks of vacation and six paid holidays. Most women get four to six weeks of paid maternity leave. They do have the option of additional unpaid leave but only after they’ve used up all their vacation time. This is the result of the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which also allows fathers to have paternity leave in most companies.

Danish managers get a generous unemployment policy that allows them to collect 90% pay for two years. This makes it possible for unhappy workers to leave without facing financial hardship. To keep top talent and avoid having to pay two-years of unemployment, the Danish work to keep open communication between teams and managers. It also incentivizes companies to invest in their managers by offering professional development opportunities.

No wonder the Danes have “arbejdsglæde.” With fewer work hours, more vacation and leave, and professional development opportunities, it seems to be the ideal work environment. For those of us that don’t have the advantage of working for an employer that offers those benefits, here are some tips to find happiness in the work place!

Why do we do what we do? Why do we spend 40 hours (more more) a week at our job? Our purpose is a reflection of our beliefs and core values. When we feel our purpose at work is aligned with those core beliefs, work becomes something enjoyable and fulfilling. It is important while looking for a job, that you look for a company that will give you purpose and that shares some of your core beliefs. If their purpose aligns with your life purpose, then that is a sign that it is a good fit. If you area already in a job and you are struggling to find purpose, think outside the box and make connection between what yo are doing and the beliefs you have. Surely there is overlap there and once you find those connections (no matter how little they are) it will give you a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.

How often do you lose track of time while working? Do you ever get so involved and in to your responsibilities at work that it stops feeling like work? Staying engaged at work is a key attribute to find happiness at work. Practice at focusing on one task at a time and really giving your all to that project. Then, take a break and recharge your mind and your energy to then move on to your next task. Get more involved with the company culture and be a part of the team. You already spend the majority of your week in the office, make the best of it and become more engaged with your team and your tasks.

Have you ever had a setback or a failure that has really gotten you down? You are not the only one! These things are common in the workplace and in every career. You cannot change the inevitable nature of failures or setbacks, you can however change the way you react to them. BE resilient in the face of these challenges and understand that these failures do not mean the end for you. Take these experiences as opportunities to grow and learn. Move on from these setbacks and put them in the past. You will find that brings peace of mind and will help yo to find happiness at work.

We can be happier at work when we make the extra effort to be kind. Genuinely cultivating relationships in the workplace and making an effort to be kind will bring the right kind of energy into your life. Being kind not only will make you happier, it will help build trust, make deeper connections, and become a better listener. These natural skills is an investment into your career and emotional intelligence. As humans, making connections is important and being kind will help you make those connections.

Whether your employer gives you the same benefits as those in Denmark or you have decided to use these tips, happiness is key to a successful career. Strive to be happy at your job and don’t buy into the popular negative feelings towards work. If you are looking for a job that will be a better fit for you, contact us here.

Happy working!