Happiness and Business: A possible match?

Interview with Aurelie Litynksi

You seem really happy yourself and probably have to bring so much positive energy into your speeches and workshops. What do you do to take care of your happiness in your private life?

I am passionate about what I do, but we cannot always be happy. We all have our ups and downs and it's hard to fake happiness. Happiness is emotional, not rational.

Being happy most of the time is important, having more positive than negative emotions throughout the day or week.

One of my rituals is to focus on the highlights of the day. Before I close my laptop, I ask myself: “What were my highlights today?” I do it with my children too. It’s a great way to focus on the positives in life. 

We have a tendency to remember the negative experiences more than the positive ones (negativity bias), so we need to force ourselves to remember the little things that made us smile, that made a difference in our day.

I’ve met managers who complained that some employees simply “don’t want to be happy”. What do you respond to statements like these?

We are responsible for our own happiness.

We have to find our own way to be happier at work.

Of course, self-reflection is a good starting point. However, leaders play a crucial role by creating a safe environment at work where people feel comfortable, trust each other and perform at their best.

The pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges for many companies and individuals. Some are at the brink of bankruptcy.
Can you share one effective tip/technique team leaders could take immediately even in a time of crisis and “unstable” teams to lift happiness?

Now more than ever, it is important to focus on empathy, understanding, recognition and open communication. 

Let’s remember to show more appreciation and recognition at work: Giving each other the feeling that what we do matters and that we have an impact.

Aurelie, what are the top 3 reasons or excuses you hear for not creating such a happiness centered culture?

I could name many, but the top 3 excuses are the following ones:

• “Happiness is not serious” - It is! There is more than 20 years of scientific research around happiness, better known as positive psychology.

• “It is a cost without a measurable ROI” - It can be measured and more importantly it is not a cost: It is an investment.

• “Happiness is not for business" - On the contrary: It is the foundation for more engagement, motivation and success. 

About Aurelie Litynski

Aurelie Litynski is a Chief Happiness Officer who has been trained by worldwide experts on the topic of happiness at work, positive psychology and the science behind happiness.

She supports SMEs and multinational companies to boost productivity through more happiness in their teams.

Aurelie is definitely on a mission: turning frustrations at work into happiness at work!

About DisruptHR

"Teach us something but do it quick" - DisruptHR presents inspiring speakers worldwide who question the status quo and look to the future with their ideas. 

SPOT ON organizes this exciting format in Zurich and brings HR enthusiasts together.