6 Parenting Principles to Adopt In Your Business for Greater Teamwork And a Healthier Company Culture
Happiness is a fundamental aspect of our lives that can greatly influence our well-being and unfortunately, it’s not guaranteed, unless maybe you were born in the Netherlands, stay with me. I recently read an interesting article about parenting in the Netherlands, home to the world's happiest kids. The author, a psychologist, listed six things parents never do there, and it got me thinking how in recent years, the pursuit of happiness has extended beyond our personal lives and into the workplace. Employees are looking for more than the traditional compensation, they want to work doing something they are passionate about, they are looking for more time off, freedom to work from wherever (because now we all know it’s possible – thank you Covid).
Many organizations have smartly recognized that happy employees are not only more engaged and motivated they are also more likely to foster a positive workplace culture. In this newsletter, we will explore how six happiness principles—originally designed for family life—can be applied to teamwork in the workplace and contribute to a healthier workplace culture.
1. We Never Drive Our Kids to School When We Can Cycle: Promoting Sustainability and Collaboration
In the workplace, this principle can be translated to encouraging eco-friendly commuting options and teamwork. Encouraging employees to cycle, carpool, or use public transportation not only reduces the carbon footprint but also promotes a sense of community among colleagues who share rides. Furthermore, it encourages teamwork and collaboration by fostering conversations and bonding during the commute.
2. We Never Hover Over Our Kids: Trusting and Empowering Employees
In the context of the workplace, this principle emphasizes the importance of trusting employees and giving them autonomy. Micromanagement can lead to decreased job satisfaction and productivity. Employers should set clear expectations and then trust their teams to carry out their tasks independently. Empowering employees to make decisions and take ownership of their work can lead to a happier and more engaged workforce. If you are uneasy use our Framework for Agreement to help set boundaries, check out our tip here.
3. We Never Work More Than 40 Hours per Week: Prioritizing Work-Life Balance
Long hours at work can lead to burnout and decreased overall happiness. Encouraging employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance is essential. This can be achieved by setting reasonable working hours, offering flexible schedules, and providing opportunities for remote work when possible. A well-rested and balanced team is more likely to be productive and satisfied. There are always some exceptions to the rule, if there is an important deadline for example, and there are things you can do to help promote balance in the day to day. Employees working late? Order in a meal. When it’s a slow period, surprise employees by taking them to a movie. Is it hot out? Hire an ice cream truck to pull up in the parking lot. Little things often go a long way in this department.
4. We Never Eat Too Many Meals Separately from Our Kids: Fostering a Sense of Belonging
In a workplace context, this principle highlights the importance of team cohesion and building relationships among colleagues. Encouraging employees to share meals, whether it's in a communal break room or through team-building activities, can strengthen bonds and create a sense of belonging. When employees feel connected to their colleagues, they are more likely to collaborate effectively and enjoy their time at work.
5. We Never Throw Away Structure: Providing a Clear and Supportive Framework
Structure is crucial for both families and workplaces. It provides a sense of stability and predictability. In the workplace, providing a clear organizational structure, well-defined roles, and transparent communication channels is essential. Employees should know what is expected of them and have access to the resources and support they need to succeed. It is critical for an employee to see their career path at the organization, so they do not feel stagnant. A clear structure creates a sense of security and clarity that contributes to overall happiness and productivity.
6. We Never Say Our Opinion Is the Last Word: Promoting Openness and Collaboration
In any workplace, fostering an environment where every team member feels valued and heard is crucial. This principle encourages humility and open-mindedness among colleagues. When individuals refrain from asserting that their opinion is the final say, it creates space for meaningful dialogue, diverse perspectives, and collaborative decision-making. This can be achieved by encouraging open discussions, utilize active listening, seek consensus, embrace constructive criticism, and always lead by example.
Conclusion
In conclusion, applying these happiness principles to teamwork in the workplace can have a profound impact on employee satisfaction, engagement, and productivity. By prioritizing sustainability, trust, work-life balance, a sense of belonging, clear structure, and valuing employees organizations can create a happier and more harmonious work environment. After all, happy employees are more likely to excel in their roles and contribute positively to the overall culture and success of the organization.
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