Standards Matter Group LLC

The isolation, stress, and even fear of the unknown triggered by the COVID pandemic inadvertently caused many of us to take an unvoluntary assessment of our current life.  Professionally, it may have become sometimes hard to remember the optimistic motivations that originally even inspired our career choices. That spark can fade and many of us may not think that passion and joy we once held so tight for our work can ever be regained. However, that spark can be renewed and rediscovering joy at work is possible, if we make the intentional choice to CHOOSE JOY! But how does one “choose joy”?  “Joy is not just an individual phenomenon; it’s also what psychologists call “affiliative,” which means that it has to do with strengthening our bonds with others through positive behaviors such as being kind and friendly or actively peace peace-making .” (Source: Rediscover Joy in The Workplace; Harvard Business Review, Sept 2021). It may help to reconsider your unique strengths and abilities and ask yourself if you’re getting the most out of your talents. If you’re not sure, below are some ideas to build your capacity for reclaiming joy.

• Re-engage with your team members. Even if you’re uninspired at work, don’t disconnect from those around you. Instead, show interest in their lives and create safe spaces where your team knows you have their backs, and work on strengthening relationships.

• Praise your team members for the contributions they’ve made. You’ll earn enduring respect.

• Spot growth opportunities. Rather than simply protecting yourself from failure on the job, volunteer to lead new projects or other tasks that require you to stretch.

• Share a smile and a laugh. Some tasteful humor in the moment at work helps quickly cut tension, puts your people at ease, and boosts collaboration.

When people feel safe enough to brave trust, they can be authentic and vulnerable.  These safe spaces intrinsically build confidence and productivity which yields a thriving work environment – and this is what choosing joy looks like!