In today’s fast-paced world, many professionals prioritise achievement and meaningfulness, often sidelining joy. However, in this Harvard Business Review article written by Leslie A. Perlow, Sari Mentser and Salvatore J. Affinito, their research indicates that joy—along with accomplishment and purpose—is essential for a fulfilling life and effective leadership. A study involving nearly 2,000 professionals revealed that individuals experience more joy during their limited free time than while working or doing household chores. Interestingly, what people do with their extra time is more important than how many hours they have. Engaging in activities that bring joy can enhance well-being and leadership effectiveness.
Five Strategies to Cultivate Joy
Engage with Others
Sharing experiences amplifies joy.
→ Engaging with others in meaningful ways can enhance happiness and strengthen relationships.
Avoid Passive Pursuits
Passive activities like scrolling through social media can provide temporary distraction but may not lead to lasting joy. 0
→ Opting for active engagement in enjoyable activities can be more fulfilling.
Diversify Your Activities
Participating in a variety of activities can prevent monotony and increase opportunities for joy.
→ Exploring new hobbies or interests can bring fresh experiences and satisfaction.
Prioritise Relationships
Strong personal connections contribute significantly to happiness.
→ Investing time in nurturing relationships with family, friends, and colleagues can lead to greater joy.
Practice Gratitude
Regularly acknowledging and appreciating positive aspects of life can enhance overall happiness.
→ Keeping a gratitude journal or sharing thankful thoughts can foster a positive mindset.
Guidance for Clients and Candidates
For Candidates:
Finding joy in your professional life starts with choosing the right role and workplace that aligns with your values and lifestyle. Small daily habits, such as taking mindful breaks, nurturing workplace relationships, and pursuing passions outside of work, can also significantly boost your happiness and performance. Incorporating joy into daily routines doesn't require extensive changes; small adjustments can make a significant difference. By prioritising joy, professionals can achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.
For Clients:
As a recruitment agency, we understand that fostering a positive work environment is key to attracting and retaining top talent. Encouraging your teams to prioritise joy and well-being can lead to increased productivity, engagement, and loyalty. Consider promoting flexible work arrangements, providing opportunities for social connection, and recognising employee achievements. Creating a culture that values work-life balance and personal fulfillment helps build stronger, more resilient teams.
Shaping Careers. Strengthening Businesses.
At Bentley Recruitment, we understand the importance of work-life balance and how encouraging clients and candidates to incorporate these strategies can lead to more satisfied and effective professionals. That’s why we aim to match you with opportunities where professional success and personal balance go hand in hand. Because when busy professionals find joy, they bring their best selves to work, thrive in their roles, and drive meaningful success. Let us help you find a career path where both your professional goals and personal happiness can flourish.
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