Positive Psychology: An Igniting Boon for Professional's Individuality

" Love & Work are to people, what water & sunshine are to plants." - Jonathan Haidt

The beauty of knowledge lies in its ability to add new perceptive and direction in our lives. Positive Psychology and Positive Organizational Behavior are such sources of knowledge that have the potential to change the dynamics of workplace environment even in a confounding and demanding 21st century. Many of the research findings have reported the significance of happiness and positive emotions at the workplace. Positive emotions are associated with well-being and a better quality of life.

Once in Business and Management, words rarely impress us, so let's talk stats:

• Did you know that happy Sales professionals deliver 37% greater sales?
• The sick days reported by happy employees is 10 times less than their unhappy counterparts.(Source_Snacknation)
• While happy and engaged workforce brings a Positive ROI for the organization. 75% of the causes of employee turnover are preventable (HRDIVE)

Any optimist who believes in the power of hope, resilience, and self-efficacy would feel attracted to this notion of Positive Psychology. It is focused on the " good aspects and strengths" of our existence. It emphasizes the ideas of happiness, well-being, and self-actualization. The question is how to inculcate positive emotions in a constant ambiance of work pressure, targets, conflicts and daily hassles.

The answers are hidden not in frowns but in smiles !

A number of Fortune 500 companies are adding the magic of Positive Psychology in their daily routine by taking small steps and initiatives. The endeavors of Google, Marriott, and American Express are truly impressive but as an admirer of Karma philosophy, I wish to look at the concept of Positive Psychology with an individualistic approach. Instead of relying on HR policies, strategies, and handbook of organizational culture, I as an individual is responsible for the well-being and happiness of me and my coworkers.When I begin to take ownership of my own happiness, I automatically imbibe the idea of positive psychology in my work group, team, and work culture. This way a person is not dependent on the mercy of the HR initiatives instead he set a benchmark for others to follow. Benchmark is an onerous word, let us simplify it-

How long does it take to greet someone with a smile or revert with a positive gesture?

Is it really difficult to give a feedback using polite and encouraging words?

Is it really possible to encourage a new joiner for his qualities by being a bit considerate?

Can an individual become the source of positive vibes, healthy humor and confidence for the entire organization?

Probably Yes! Probably Not. The possibilities of success and failure are hidden in experimentations and practical implications.When having higher expectations can lead to improved performance, when Pygmalion effect can be used to influence workplace creatively and positively why not give a chance to the pleasing and aesthetic aura of constructive actions, emotions, thinking and Positive Psychology.

When are you planning to adopt Postive Psychology at your workplace?

Looking forward to knowing your experiments with Positive Psychology, here I close this write-up on a happy note with an inquisitive smile. :-)