The Happiness Quotient

Diversity Strategy & Approach Mar 20, 2018

Today, March 20th is World Happiness Day .Happiness at workplace means inclusion. You, I and we can heal the world by making it more inclusive.

The rusted ring story tells us about the preciousness of happiness…live the moment while it lasts. Here it goes…

A devotee, Sourav was in search of wisdom. His guide tells him to search for the wisdom ring which has a special quality to convert sadness into happiness and vice-versa. The devotee searches far and wide for a gold ring as it signified wisdom to him. He fails until he meets an old blacksmith who gives him a rusted ring. Sourav brings the ring to his guide. The ring was satisfactory. Why?

“This too shall pass” was inscribed on the ring.

How does the above relate to the happiness quotient in organizations?

A talent may choose to move out but what can retain them is your happiness quotient. The tone of diversity and inclusion is the key. Business matters but do you value them for their abilities?

Everyone is in a position to give but it is a tug of war between the You and I i.e. others and self. If a change occurs to We – a unit which has a bond but diverse fundamentally, then success is a higher probability.

Steps to increase the happiness quotient of your organization:

  • The ‘you’ concept: Your stakeholders include your clients and employees. Ensure that they are valued and content. Make them the centre of all your initiatives. Thoughts of their welfare will bring you higher returns. You are important should be the commitment of your organization to your stakeholders.
  • Networking: Connecting people will make them feel included. I’m the leader who gives you priority and freedom to explore is the trend. No limitations unless it comes into the category of impossible should be your mantra.
  • The Goodness Factor: Contributing to the society at large sets a trend of attraction for employees who are motivated by your actions. However, the initial step is to improve the work culture within the organization through bias free hiring, employee resource groups, gender neutral policies and maternity management policies which are worthy initiatives.
  • The Time Factor: Time is worth more than money. Spending quality time with your employees through mentoring or sponsorship increases their worth of self. Team building activities and events will unify the spirit of your organization. This is a tributary of the ‘you’ concept.
  • Flexibility at workplace: Implementing flexibility policies in your workplace is the demand of the hour.

It is true that happiness and sorrow are two sides of the same coin. Memories made for a lifetime remain etched in the sands of time. Situations arise where hearts break, when connections tear apart and someone chooses a different career opportunity; but truly I say to you ‘This too shall pass.’

By Sandra Sebastian