Many of us believe that once our workplace is running smoothly, then we will have time to be happy – but research actually shows the opposite to be true. When we embrace happiness first, in spite of our circumstances, we strengthen our ability to think creatively and solve problems more efficiently.
At Encompass Health, we strive to focus on the positive as part of our five core values, known as The Encompass Health Way. Through this, we strive to have a positive spirit and find light even in the most difficult situations. We celebrate successes and inspire others to create meaningful impact every day.
While there will always be external circumstances that make our work challenging, deciding to be happy is something we can control. Below are five science-supported activities that can help you focus on the positive – which in turn can increase your resilience, problem-solving abilities and overall quality of life. Pick one of the activities below and try it out with your team.
Gratitude
Research shows that expressing gratitude allows you to notice the good things that already exist.
Action Item
There are many ways of expressing gratitude, but an easy way to start is writing down five things a week that you are truly grateful for. Focus on the “why” behind your feelings of gratitude and focus on that as you are writing about them. Make sure you truly feel grateful about them, not just writing what you think you should be grateful for.
Take It to Your Team
Share this practice with your team and ask people to take turns at the beginning of team meetings highlighting what they are grateful for.
Cultivate Optimism
No matter how rough a day was, every day holds the opportunity for something really great to happen.
Action Item
Spend 15-30 minutes thinking about what you would like your team to look like six months from now. Write a description of what that goal looks like: describe the interactions that take place, your daily tasks and your team’s outcomes. Hold onto your description, read it daily and think about how good it will feel to reach that goal. Plan small action steps to help you reach it.
Pari Smart is a professional development specialist for Encompass Health – Home Health & Hospice.
The content of this site is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding any medical conditions or treatments.
