What Data Shows Can Actually Make Us Happy at Work
The onset of the global pandemic has offered a slower pace and new lens to reflect on how we might live happier, more fulfilling lives. For many, that means taking a more critical look at the place we spend nearly a third of our lives — our jobs. In a 2021 Workplace Happiness Study, commissioned by Indeed and conducted by Forrester Consulting, we learned that nearly 50% of people believe expectations around work happiness have increased over the last five years. (1) Furthermore, 97% of people felt like happiness at work is possible. (1)
As some demand to maintain the remote work they were offered during the pandemic to sustain flexibility and work/life balance, others leave their jobs completely in search of better, happier work. In a 2021 Microsoft study of hybrid work, 40% of respondents said they are considering leaving their employers this year. In June alone, four million workers resigned. While some call this pattern a “Great Resignation,” Indeed sees this moment rather as a “Great Realization” of the opportunity to find happier, more fulfilling work and, in turn, lives.
In this article, we’ll discuss why happiness at work is possible, why you deserve it and what actually makes us happy at work.
Why work happiness is important and achievable
In her book, “The Writing Life,” Annie Dillard says, “How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.” In our study, 92% of people said how they feel at work impacts how they feel at home. (1) Finding ways to be genuinely happy in our work and personal lives is certainly an achievement in and of itself, but it also makes us better at our jobs. Psychology professor and happiness specialist Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky says that research shows happier people experience more success, positive reviews, greater creativity, higher incomes and less burnout.
Leading psychologists and well-being experts also believe it’s even more important to focus on well-being in times of transition and change, which we have certainly seen over the last year and a half. On top of that, job loss is one of the top five most stressful events in a person’s life. Well-being contributes to overall happiness — and happier people are more likely to be resilient, energetic and innovative in times of great challenge or stress.
So, whether you’re looking for a new job or investing in your current one, increasing your happiness is critical, both broadly for quality of life and success in your job or job search.
One of the questions in the 2021 Workplace Happiness Survey asked people what the primary reasons they’d consider leaving their current job for new opportunities.
Most respondents said they’d leave if they’re not paid fairly (30%), followed by not feeling happy at work most of the time and not feeling energized when performing work-related tasks. (1) It’s worth understanding how you feel at work to decide if you’re in the right role, with the right company, or if it’s time to make a change.
Related: How To Use the Work Happiness Score on Indeed Company Pages
What makes us happy at work
Happiness can mean different things to different people. Indeed’s research reveals that people often misjudge what drives their happiness at work. While many believe compensation is the top predictor of happiness, in reality, the social elements of work prove to be more important. For example, dimensions like being energized by your work (17%), feeling like you belong (12%) and having a sense of purpose (11%) all rank higher than pay (5%).
(1) Indeed Workplace Happiness Report, a commissioned study (n=4,033 US adults) conducted by Forrester Consulting on behalf of Indeed, 2021
