New technologies, high workload, shifting expectations... The world is moving faster than ever. So the question is: how do you stay happy at work? The answer lies in "four powerful pillars": job satisfaction, resilience, connection, and mindset. Four pillars reinforce each other and help you thrive, even in turbulent times.
Recently, during the Snackable Learning led by Joke and Kirsten, we dived into the world of Happiness at Work. It was short, powerful and packed with insights on how to boost your well-being at work — exactly what we need in times of change. In this blog, we share our key takeaways and "aha" moments.
💛 Happiness at work: more than just satisfaction
Happiness at work is about positive emotions, meaning, and connection. It should not be confused with job satisfaction (satisfaction with pay, benefits or hours) or pleasure at work (short, social, and informal fun moments).
Real happiness at work is built on five solid foundations:
1. Meaning — Knowing why you do what you do
Give direction and purpose to your work. It is the bridge between your personal values and your daily tasks. When you understand why your work matters, you feel more motivated and fulfilled. Ask yourself: “What am I contributing, and why is it important to me?”
2. Autonomy — Freedom in how you do your work
People flourish when given the space to work in their own way. Autonomy means trust: the freedom to make your own choices within clear frameworks.
3. Connectedness — Feeling part of something bigger
We are social creatures. Feeling connected to your colleagues, managers, and the organization is crucial. A culture of openness and collaboration makes it easier to discuss mistakes, celebrate successes, and truly see each other.
4. Competence & growth — Keep learning and developing
Happiness at work grows when you feel you're getting better at what you do. Whether it's new skills, personal growth, or a challenging project: learning keeps your brain active and boosts your confidence.
5. Appreciation & recognition — Being seen for who you are and what you do
Appreciation is not just about performance, but about the person behind the work. Sincere acknowledgment can work wonders.
💪 Resilience: AQ over IQ and EQ
Alongside happiness at work, resilience is essential. It is not just how smart (IQ) or emotionally intelligent (EQ) you are. More importantly, your ability to remain flexible in changing circumstances (AQ-Adaptability Quotient) is the foundation of your resilience. It's not about “doing more”, but about “looking at things differently”: how quickly can you pivot, let go, adjust, and move on?
People with a high Adaptability Quotient see change not as a threat, but as an opportunity to learn. They are not afraid to make mistakes, recover more quickly from setbacks, and maintain their energy, even when the going gets tough.
The good news? AQ is trainable. You can develop it, and that starts with your physical and mental well-being. Listen to your body: fatigue, stress, and mental exhaustion are not signs of weakness, but signals to pay attention to.
AQ is trainable and can be developed, starting with your physical and mental well-being.
🤝 Leadership: connecting and authentic
Leadership isn't about control or perfection, it's about authenticity. Real leaders know themselves and dare to be vulnerable.
Three pillars of authentic leadership:
1. Self-awareness — Know yourself to lead others
Self-awareness is at the heart of effective leadership. How can you guide others if you don't know your own values, motives, and pitfalls? This introspection creates not only peace of mind, but also greater authenticity in your actions. You don't have to pretend to be the "perfect" leader — just be you, in your own way.
Tip: Ask your team for feedback. Not to be judged, but to understand yourself better.
2. Authentic leadership — Know what legacy you want to leave behind
When your actions are rooted in your values, there is consistency between what you say and what you do. Your leadership leaves a mark on the people and the culture of your organization. You define that legacy every day, with every choice you make.
3. Integrative stillness — Use rest as a leadership strategy
The power of taking a break is often underestimated. Create moments of rest to reflect, breathe, and reconnect. A truly connected leader inspires others to do the same to reduce workplace stress.
People don't follow titles. They follow authenticity.
🧭 Mindset: Be the captain of your mind
Our thoughts shape our reality. They determine how we think, act, react, and make decisions. Much of our thinking happens on autopilot. While useful for routine, this isn't always ideal for growth. Limiting beliefs can often hold us back unconsciously.
Through awareness, whether through coaching or reflection, you can break these patterns. This is how you create more freedom, energy, and impact, both at work and beyond.
✨ Small reflection, big impact
Success and well-being go hand in hand. When these elements align, they create a healthy work culture where people enjoy contributing, developing their talents, and inspiring each other.
Mini exercise: Take 5 minutes of silence today and ask yourself:
1. What trulygives me energy?
2. What helps me stay agile and authentic?
Often, the most meaningful changes start small, with a few minutes of awareness.
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