Happiness in the Workplace: It’s a Team Effort

By May 21, 2025HR Blog

5.21.25 

By Molly Wood, SPHR, MAOL Senior HR Consultant

Want to be a happy employee? It’s often assumed that a happy employee is the responsibility of their manager, but we believe that happiness is a two-way street. While managers can certainly create a supportive and positive work environment, employees also have the power to take control of their own happiness.

Start with gratitude – recognize the little things that make your workday better. As Emmons and McCullough found, counting blessings vs. burdens can boost your well-being. Being kind to others is also key, and can be contagious. Finally, focus on optimism – visualize your best possible self and try to see the bright side of things.

By taking ownership of your happiness, you can create a positive and supportive work environment that benefits everyone. So, don’t wait for your manager to make you happy – take the first step today.

Join us on June 5 at 10:30 for SDEA’s training “How to be a Happy Employee”. We will explore the opportunity and obligation for staff to foster a positive work environment and share strategies for making your office (live or virtual) a better place to spend 40 hours.

At SDEA we are HeRe with you!

Contact us: 858.505.0024