Spotlight on Mental Health: 3 Keys to Happiness at Work
It may seem hard to believe, but Americans are drastically more satisfied with their jobs today than they were 20 years ago, according to a Gallup Poll about work and the workplace. In 2001, 41 percent of respondents said they were “˜completely satisfied’ with their jobs, and that number jumped to 48 percent in 2021.
Most adults spend many of their waking hours at work, so how they feel while they’re there has a big effect on overall mental health. That’s why researchers are interested in finding the secrets to happiness at work. Here are a few tips they’ve found to make work a happy, healthy place for today’s employees:
#1: Do Something You Find Important
Punching your time card for something you believe in makes you feel like you’re doing something important, and it’s a key factor in whether you’ll be happy with your work overall. If a job is more than just a job, workers will find meaning in getting up every day to contribute at their workplace.
#2: Embrace Challenges
Studies have consistently shown that our happiness hinges partially on a sense of accomplishment. Humans are wired to contribute to the greater good alongside our community. So, it’s not surprising that those who feel at least somewhat challenged in their work are more satisfied with their jobs overall. Boredom breeds unhappiness, so it’s important to find a job that matches your interests and keeps you challenged.
#3: Learn New Skills
Professional outlets can contribute to a feeling of self-worth, which is important for confidence and avoiding depression and anxiety. Happy workers expand their skills on a regular basis and look for ways to learn new things. Successful employers often offer professional development opportunities and a path to advancement.
How Goodwill Builds a Path to Happiness
Ohio Valley Goodwill is on a mission to help individuals find vocational success “” and workplace happiness. We believe that everyone who wants to work deserves the opportunity to find meaningful employment, including individuals in our community with disabilities.
Using our comprehensive assessment services, we help job seekers with disabilities determine which jobs best fit their individual interests and skills. Making that match helps to propel a powerful sense of purpose and accomplishment!
Goodwill’s career planning services help individuals with disabilities prepare for a path to continuous achievement. This creates opportunities for job seekers to expand their skills and secure meaningful employment, becoming happy employees!
At Ohio Valley Goodwill, we know happiness in the workplace is key to happiness overall. We’re proud to help individuals empower themselves and achieve success in every phase of the employment process.
Did you know? Simply by shopping at Goodwill and donating your gently-used items, you’re supporting Goodwill’s mission to change lives through vocational programs and services for job seekers with disabilities in the Greater Cincinnati community.
Follow along with Ohio Valley Goodwill on our new Facebook page to learn more about Goodwill’s mission and how you can help us make a difference!
