Past research has shown that work stress compromises your personal health and is a contributing factor to rising health-care costs. Now a new study shows that increased happiness can boost worker productivity without sacrificing quality.
Researchers at the University of Warwick performed four different experiments with more than 700 participants. During the study, some individuals were shown a clip of a comedic film or were provided with free chocolate, drinks and fruit. Other groups were asked about recent family tragedies, such as bereavement. Futurity reports:
In the laboratory, they found happiness made people about 12 percent more productive.
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“The driving force seems to be that happier workers use the time they have more effectively, increasing the pace at which they can work without sacrificing quality,” [says Daniel Sgroi, DPhil.]
Noting how employee perks at Google helped the company increase worker productivity, the authors say the findings offer compelling evidence that companies should "strive to make their workplaces emotionally healthy for their workforce."
On a related note, this Stanford Graduate School of Business video explores the profound impact laughter can have on our brains, bodies and behavior. In the talk, MBA candidate Eric Tsytsylin discusses why individuals and organizations should embrace humor and laughter as a way of boosting happiness, creativity and productivity.
Previously: Are you happy now? Stanford Roundtable spotlights the science of happiness and wellbeing, For a truly happy New Year, cultivate sustainable happiness, Study suggests specific gene may influence happiness among women and TED Talk with Laura Carstensen shows older adults have an edge on happiness
Photo by Scott Beale
