Introduction
In the engaging TED Talk “The Happy Secret to Better Work,” psychologist Shawn Achor presents a compelling argument that turns a common belief on its head: instead of assuming that we should work hard to be happy, Achor suggests that happiness precedes success and can make us more effective at our jobs. Through a blend of humor and scientific evidence, he makes the case that cultivating a positive mindset can improve our productivity and performance in the workplace. This essay will explore the relationship between happiness and work effectiveness, the evidence provided by Achor to support his claims, and reflect on the strategies that might personally resonate with the viewer.
The Relationship Between Happiness and Work Effectiveness
Achor challenges the long-held belief that hard work leads to success and happiness. He argues that this formula is flawed because once we reach a goal, our brain changes the goalposts of what success looks like. Therefore, we never reach the happiness we expect from success because we constantly chase the next achievement.
Instead, Achor advocates that happiness is an advantage in the workplace. He cites research suggesting that when the brain is positive, it performs significantly better than when it is negative, neutral, or stressed. A positive brain results in higher levels of creativity, energy, and intelligence, leading to a 31% increase in productivity and a 37% increase in sales, as reported by his studies (Achor).
Evidence for Increasing Happiness
The evidence for happiness as a precursor to practical work is grounded in various psychological studies. Achor mentions that only 25% of job success is predicted by IQ. The remaining 75% is determined by optimism levels, social support, and the ability to see stress as a challenge rather than a threat. He also refers to his research with companies and schools, where training in positive psychology and happiness led to significant improvements in work outcomes (Achor). For instance, doctors primed to be positive before making a diagnosis show almost three times more intelligence and creativity, making diagnoses 19% faster than doctors in a neutral state.
Happiness Strategies and Personal Application
Achor proposes several strategies to achieve this happiness and unlock the benefits of a positive brain at work. These include journaling about one positive experience over the past 24 hours, exercise, meditation, random acts of kindness, and expressing gratitude by writing down three new things you are thankful for each day (Achor). These activities train the brain to become more skilled at scanning the world for the positive rather than the negative, fostering a mindset of happiness and optimism.
Reflecting on these strategies, the ones that resonate most with me are the practices of gratitude and random acts of kindness. Expressing gratitude is a powerful way to shift focus from what is lacking or stressful to what is abundant and joyous in life. It fosters an attitude of appreciation that can color one’s entire outlook (“Gratitude: Random Acts of Kindness”). Meanwhile, random acts of kindness, such as writing a positive email to thank or praise someone in your support network, not only spread happiness to others but also reinforce social connections crucial for emotional well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, Shawn Achor’s “The Happy Secret to Better Work” proposes that rather than toiling diligently for happiness, we should nurture happiness to enhance our work performance. His assertions are supported by compelling substantiation that a buoyant mind is more engrossed, innovative, and fruitful. By adopting practices that foster happiness, such as gratitude and acts of benevolence, we can amplify our work efficacy and establish a virtuous cycle of positivity that benefits both our professional and personal realms. As individuals and organizations embrace this felicity advantage, we may witness a profound transformation in how we approach work and triumph, resulting in greater contentment and accomplishment in all spheres of life.
Works Cited
“Gratitude: Random Acts of Kindness“. Be Well Solutions. Web.
Achor, Shown. “The happy secret to better work“. Ted. 2011. Web.