How to be happier at work

Are you happy at work? SEEK’s first ever Happiness Index Report recently revealed that there’s a good chance you’re not. In fact, it found that only 55% of Australians are happy in their jobs. 

The good news is that if you’re one of the 45% who aren’t, there are actions you can take that can change this. We spoke to Transitioning Well Co-Director and Organisational Psychologist, Justine Alter, who has provided some expert tips for being happier at work. 

What factors make us happy at work?

According to the Happiness Index Report, purpose is a big driver of workplace happiness. “People need to feel that their work has meaning and contributes to something larger,” says Alter.

Another aspect of work that people reported affected their happiness is their manager. “They set the tone for team dynamics and support,” says Alter. It’s easy to see how good leadership has a direct influence on feeling happy – or unhappy – at work.

The report also revealed that day-to-day responsibilities had a significant impact on the workplace happiness of Australians. “How they align with personal goals is key,” says Alter. When you have a job that gels well with your personal beliefs it’s more likely to make you feel happy than a job that is at odds with your values. 

Two more factors correlated with happiness at work are company culture and low stress levels. Alter sees a link between the two, saying “[The] two are interconnected because a positive, supportive culture can help manage stress.”

What changes can we make to improve our workplace happiness

Feel like your happiness levels could do with a tweak – or perhaps a big boost? While you should feel empowered to take charge of how happy you are in your job, changes may require a combined effort between you and your employer.

Here's what you can do for yourself. “As an employee, you can focus on the factors that are more within your control, such as your day-to-day responsibilities,” suggests Alter.

As for finding purpose in your work and improving company culture: “Look for ways to get more involved in your company’s culture and community, such as joining employee resource groups or volunteering for special projects.

Strengthening workplace ties and looking at ways to reduce stress are more actions you can take to help improve happiness at work. 

“Focus on building strong relationships with your colleagues…You can also consider your own work-life balance and explore ways to manage stress, whether through time management, wellness activities, or adjusting your responsibilities.”

How to bring up happiness with your manager

With the SEEK data showing that factors like your manager, company culture, and stress levels are key drivers of happiness, creating a happier workplace likely requires cooperation from your manager or supervisor.

“The key is to have open and honest conversations, to understand where you can make changes yourself and where you need support from your organisation,” says Alter.

When it comes to talking to your manager about your workplace happiness, it can help to approach the situation positively and proactively, rather than focusing solely on the problems.

“Focus on constructive, solutions-oriented dialogue,” suggests Alter.

“Some conversation starters could be, ‘I'd like to discuss how I can find more purpose and meaning in my work,’ or ‘I'm feeling quite stressed lately and would appreciate your support in managing my workload’.

Alter suggests we also avoid complaining or looking for someone to blame.

“Instead, frame the discussion around how you can work together to address the underlying issues – whether that's related to your responsibilities, management support, or company culture.”

What to do if happiness proves more elusive

If you’ve made efforts to address the issues contributing to your workplace unhappiness, and you’re still not seeing meaningful improvements, it may be time to consider moving on, says Alter.

Not sure if it’s your job or just a rough patch? “Look for signs like a persistent lack of purpose, an unsupportive manager, or a company culture that doesn't align with your values,” she says.

“If you find yourself frequently thinking about changing jobs and your job search is taking up a significant amount of mental energy, that could be an indication that it's the right time to explore new opportunities.”

Your happiness takeaway

“The most important takeaway is that creating a positive, supportive, and purposeful work experience involves a collaborative effort between employees and their organisations,” says Alter.

“By addressing these critical elements, we can cultivate a workforce that is more engaged, motivated, and fulfilled.”

Access the complete Workplace Happiness Index Report here.

Source: Research conducted for SEEK by Nature, between April and June 2024 via an online survey. Responses were gathered from over 1,200 individuals currently in the workforce (either employed or looking for work), aged 18-64, and living in Australia.