The International Week of Happiness at Work is a global initiative aimed at promoting happiness and well-being in the workplace. It focuses on creating a positive work environment that enhances employee satisfaction, engagement, and overall happiness. The week serves as a reminder for organisations to prioritise the well-being of their employees and to implement practices that foster a positive workplace culture.

The International Week of Happiness at Work is typically celebrated during the last week of September. It involves various activities, events, workshops, and discussions centred around happiness, well-being, and improving the work experience for employees.

The importance of the International Week of Happiness at Work:

  1. Employee Well-being: Prioritising employee happiness and well-being leads to improved mental and physical health, increased job satisfaction, and reduced burnout.
  2. Engagement and Productivity: Happy employees are more engaged and motivated, which positively impacts their productivity and overall performance.
  3. Retention and Recruitment: Organisations that promote happiness at work are more likely to attract top talent and retain their current employees, leading to a more stable and skilled workforce.
  4. Positive Culture: Fostering a positive workplace culture encourages collaboration, open communication, and a sense of belonging among employees.
  5. Innovation: Happy employees are more likely to think creatively and contribute innovative ideas, which can lead to business growth and success.
  6. Reduced Stress: A focus on happiness at work can help reduce stress levels, leading to improved physical and mental health outcomes.

How to support employee happiness in the workplace:

  1. Clear Communication: Foster open and transparent communication to ensure employees are aware of company goals, expectations, and any changes.
  2. Recognise and Appreciate: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate employees’ efforts and contributions. Recognition can boost morale and motivation.
  3. Work-Life Balance: Encourage a healthy work-life balance by promoting flexible work arrangements and discouraging a culture of overworking.
  4. Professional Development: Provide opportunities for skill development and career growth, showing employees that their personal and professional growth is valued.
  5. Positive Leadership: Train managers to lead with empathy, emotional intelligence, and positivity. A supportive leadership style can significantly impact employee happiness.
  6. Wellness Programs: Implement wellness initiatives that cater to physical, mental, and emotional well-being, such as fitness classes, mindfulness sessions, and mental health resources.
  7. Feedback and Involvement: Allow employees to voice their opinions, ideas, and concerns. Involve them in decision-making processes that affect their work environment.
  8. Flexible Environment: Create a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing workspace that supports productivity and well-being.
  9. Social Connections: Encourage team building and social interactions through events, outings, or team-building activities.
  10. Empowerment: Provide employees with autonomy and ownership over their tasks and projects, allowing them to feel a sense of accomplishment and control.
  11. Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Foster an inclusive environment that values diversity and ensures equal opportunities for all employees.
  12. Mental Health Support: Offer resources for mental health support, such as counselling services or employee assistance programs.

Remember that employee happiness is an ongoing effort that requires consistent attention and adaptation based on the evolving needs of your workforce. You can find out more here. 

Workplace Wellbeing Professional & Happiness

Workplace Wellbeing Professional recognises the importance of feeling good and happy, especially when you are at work! Take a look at some of our top stories relating to happiness (with many more to be found under the Topic Index):

Further resources

If you are struggling to maintain happiness, Action for Happiness provides a comprehensive list of resources to help, including ‘Building Resilience’, ‘Fearless Living’ and ‘Shift Your Mindset’: https://actionforhappiness.org/resources

Joanne Swann, Content Manager, WorkWellPro
Joanne Swann
Editor at Workplace Wellbeing Professional | Website | + posts

Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.