Ask the Experts: How to Be Happier at Work

The Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) is an invite-only organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs. Needless to say, members may therefore know a thing or two about corporate wellness, so here are their responses to the question; ‘What’s your most helpful tip for being happier at work?’

According to Tom Cannon, BungoBox, ‘Unhappy people will rub off on you. So if you can avoid the “Negative Nellies” and office gossip, do so. Remember: Your attitude is your choice. Focus on the co-workers who are ambitious, smart and like-minded. Collaborate with them instead.’ Eric Corl, Fundable LLC, added, ‘The quickest way to kill productivity and workplace morale is to hire the wrong people. Take the time to find people who are positive, productive and fit well into your company culture. It will pay enormous dividends in terms of company morale, employee retention and productivity.’

Anson Sowby, Rocket XL advised that breaking bread with co-workers is great for company morale. ‘Take time to eat together. It doesn’t have to be dinner; it can be a cupcake in the kitchen,’ Sowby said. ‘Conversations over food bring guards down, allowing you to get to know your fellow mates on a personal level and create better collaboration, friendships and meaningful interactions.’

For Kim Kaupe, ‘ZinePak, workspace wellness is the way to go for being happier at work. ‘If someone told you spending $2 would make you happier, would you do it?’ Kim asked. ‘Of course you would! So buy a candle, a fresh flower or a pen holder that makes you smile. Working around colours, objects or decorations that make you feel motivated, happy and content will make your workspace feel more like an extension of you and less like a much-despised, generic corporate desk.’

For those times when your desk won’t provide you with the boost you need, Anderson Schoenrock, ScanDigital, advised, ‘When I reach a point where I’m not focusing well at my desk, I like to take a lap around the office and see what others are working on. Often, you can learn a lot by just observing (and avoid interrupting employees), and the walk is rejuvenating and energizing.’ Emerson Spartz, Spartz, added, ‘Sitting at a desk for hours at a time without moving can be toxic to your psychological wellbeing. A multitude of studies have confirmed that taking a brisk, 10-minute walk is one of the best ways to elevate your mood and improve your productivity. Take a walk outside while you make a call.’

 

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