Busy Bragging, Should You Tell Your Boss You're Unhappy? and Neuroplasticity.

Waiting for the election results, proper monsoon, and promotions and appraisals, why does it feel like this period is all about waiting? But hopefully, after all the waiting, the expectations will be fulfilled.

I'm back with another interesting edition of the newsletter - Happiness At Work - packed with fresh insights, intriguing stories, and practical tips to brighten up your work life.

Let's dive into the world of workplace happiness and keep our journey of joy and discovery rolling!

Busy bragging? tell me more.

What is Busy Bragging? Busy bragging refers to the phenomenon where individuals boast about their hectic schedules and workloads as a status symbol, indicating their importance or productivity.

Does it have any impact on Wellness? This culture can lead to increased stress and burnout among employees, as they feel pressured to constantly display their busyness and productivity.

Are there any studies and findings? Research often shows that such behavior is counterproductive to overall well-being and can harm mental and physical health. It can also create a toxic work environment where employees feel they cannot take breaks or prioritize self-care.

Are there any recommendations for Employers? Employers are encouraged to foster a culture that values balanced workloads, regular breaks, and wellness programs. Recognizing and rewarding efficiency and quality over mere busyness is suggested.

Can you tell your boss that you're unhappy?

This article in psychology today opened my eyes and how? Many professionals feel insecure and scared to express themselves candidly in front of their bosses.

In my personal example, many years ago, I went to my boss and said, I am noy enjoying my work. I want to do more, I need to prove myself and I feel this job and the tasks are repetitive and I'm sure I can do more.

Result? No progress. and today I know the reasons. So the next time, you need to have that tough conversation, consider these points.

1. Get clarity on the real issues. Be sure you’ve committed to writing your specific challenges in advance. It’s easy to let emotions take over when you’re making such a critical decision, especially when personality conflicts exist. The best outcome will occur if you can remain factual, concise, and calm. Ex - if you want more responsibilities, then showcase your strengths, your work, and your interest levels. Here the problem is not your current work, that can be managed but you need to grow and learn, that's the real issue.

2. Know the result you’re seeking. Be sure you have identified your objectives beforehand. If you fall prey to using this conversation to vent or teach your boss a lesson, you may be better off leaving. But if you seek a constructive solution, then you’re giving this discussion its best prospects. Ex - more responsibility means you have to make more critical decisions, solve more complex problems, and show results, are you ready for that?

3. Listen. Remember, you’re there to gather information that will help you decide your next move. Ask questions and use emotional intelligence to get the answers you need, diplomatically. The bottom line you’re trying to ascertain: Is your boss willing to take the necessary steps to bring you greater job satisfaction? On your part, can you take steps to manage up better?

Let's chat

Every week I give a dope recommendation, this week's recommendation is something creative. This week's recommendation doesn't involve any link. It's a recommendation where you will have to dwell on something super interesting.

How many of you have heard of neuroplasticity? I am studying more about it in my psychology class and the more information I get about it, the more surprised I am!

Neuroplasticity, the brain's remarkable ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life, allows us to rewire our brains at any stage, significantly enhancing satisfaction and happiness at work. This adaptability means that through deliberate practices like mindfulness, continuous learning, and positive thinking, we can change our cognitive patterns and behaviors, leading to improved resilience, creativity, and emotional well-being. These changes foster a more positive work environment, greater job satisfaction, and overall happiness. A study by Tang, Holzel, and Posner (2015) highlights how mindfulness meditation can induce neuroplastic changes, improving emotional regulation and cognitive functions, which are critical for workplace success and satisfaction.

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That's it from this time. This newsletter aims to initiate conversations about #happinessatwork as it's the future of work. I also believe in bringing new interesting topics and dope recommendations for you.

Keep It Hygge ideates and executes Happiness-at-work initiatives at various organizations. Get in touch with us. If you are looking for some unique, creative, and humane ideas and programs to increase the happiness quotient of your organization, hit us up!

If you like what you read, so share it with your colleagues, bosses, interns, clients, etc. See you next week.

Till then, Keep It Hygge!

Cheers,

AJ