Tips To Stay Happy At Work

While throwing the towel in is a common fantasy, it might not be as good as it sounds. We look at how working benefits our health – as long as we know how to navigate the challenges.

We all harbour those dreams of ditching the daily grind and running off to a tropical island while a magical bank account generates us millions of dollars. But the experts have other news – the evidence shows that most of us are better off mentally and physically when we are employed, and that striking the right balance of work, rest and play in a supportive workplace is the best bet.

However, that can be easier said than done. Anyone who has had to endure a nightmare job will know the dread that creeps in on Sunday afternoon as you brace yourself for the week, walking on eggshells around a difficult boss, or the exhausting expectation to regularly stay late. Regardless of whether your stress is due to an insurmountable workload, an uneasy office vibe or a manager who specialises in put-downs, it is a situation that can whittle away at your confidence and become demoralising.

Ongoing stress can take a mental and physical toll. Toxic environments can also lead to low productivity, unsafe conditions and costly staff turnover. It does not take a scientist to tell you that happier workplaces are better for bosses, workers and business. So how do you look after your own workplace wellbeing?

Good, Bad And The Ugly

As much as the scenario of spending every day on a beach lounger sounds enticing, academics and medical experts are unanimous: Work is beneficial for us. Having a job helps us to feel socially included, reinforces our identity and gives us a sense of purpose.

In a report from the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, researchers found that going to work generally reduces psychological distress, while long-term periods of unemployment almost always have a negative effect on our wellbeing.