The Path to Workplace Wellbeing and Happiness
In today’s fast-paced corporate world, organisations often focus on productivity, efficiency, and results. However, mounting research shows that fostering wellbeing and happiness in the workplace is not just a ‘nice to have’—it’s a business imperative. If you are not paying enough attention to your team’s health, happiness, and motivation, then you are making them LESS physically and psychologically safe.
Studies from Engage for Success reveal that organisations with employee engagement in the bottom quartile experience 62% more accidents than those in the top quartile. This stark statistic highlights the undeniable link between engagement, wellbeing, and workplace safety. But how can leaders create a culture that truly supports happiness and engagement?
Lessons from Leading Thinkers whom I admire
1. The Power of Generosity
Chris Anderson, in Infectious Generosity, explains how acts of giving and kindness can transform organisational culture. When leaders prioritise generosity—whether through recognition, support, or shared opportunities—they create a ripple effect that boosts morale and engagement.
2. Wellbeing as a Science
Martin Seligman’s Flourish introduces the PERMA model (Positive emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment), which provides a framework for lasting workplace happiness. Businesses that align their culture with these principles see increased motivation and performance.
3. The Aesthetics of Joy
Ingrid Fetell Lee’s Joyful explores how design, colour, and aesthetics influence our emotions. Simple workplace changes—like incorporating natural light, greenery, and vibrant spaces—can have a profound impact on employees’ happiness and creativity.
4. Measuring Happiness and Trust
James Timpson’s The Happy Index emphasises the importance of measuring workplace wellbeing and creating a culture of trust. Leaders who listen, act on feedback, and prioritise psychological safety see increased loyalty and performance.
5. Leading with Gratitude
Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton’s Leading with Gratitude demonstrates how appreciation fuels motivation. When leaders consistently express gratitude, employees feel valued and are more likely to go the extra mile.
6. Amplifying Potential
Liz Wiseman’s Multipliers reveals that the best leaders amplify the intelligence and capabilities of their teams. By creating an environment where employees feel empowered, they contribute at their highest level.
7. Innovation and Adaptability
Elvin Turner’s Be Less Zombie encourages businesses to embrace adaptability and continuous learning. A culture that nurtures curiosity and innovation fosters a more engaged and resilient workforce.
8. Unlocking Hidden Potential
Adam Grant’s Hidden Potential illustrates how growth mindset and continuous development unlock hidden talent. Providing learning opportunities and career development pathways enhances job satisfaction and long-term engagement.
Are Your Actions Enough?
The link between engagement, wellbeing, and safety is undeniable. If your SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality) Director isn’t actively working on engagement and wellbeing, it’s time to ask why. Are you doing enough to ensure your people feel safe, valued, and motivated?
A thriving workplace isn’t built on policies alone—it’s cultivated through intentional leadership, genuine care, and a commitment to happiness and engagement. The question isn’t whether investing in wellbeing makes business sense—it’s whether you can afford not to.
If you are you interested in what you can do as individuals and systemically to make your workplace thrive, get in touch.
