Career

Happy At Work? At Journey Desire And Reality Come Together

We are convinced: Working can make you happy.

 

Most of us strive for happiness in our work for a good reason. When we’re happy at work, we’re more productive and engaged. But what exactly makes people happy at work, and what can an employer like Journey do to gain and maintain that happiness? In this blog, we’ll explore some scientific studies on what makes people happy at work and what can be done to achieve that happiness. At the same time, we make an honest comparison between the scientific findings and what Journey already offers today.  Let’s see how many boxes we tick and if we have the potential to become your employer of choice:  

 

Meaningful Work 

Feeling like our work has a purpose and meaning is essential for happiness. A study by the University of North Carolina found that employees who experienced their work positively impacted others reported higher levels of job satisfaction and happiness. When we feel like our work matters and is making a difference, we’re more likely to feel fulfilled and engaged. 

To create a sense of purpose and meaning in the workplace, employers can consider aligning their company’s mission with their employees’ values and interests. Additionally, providing opportunities for employees to volunteer or give back to their communities can be a great way to promote a sense of purpose and meaning. Employers can also consider providing regular feedback and recognition to employees, highlighting their work’s positive impact on the company and the community. 

 

The Journey Check: 

  • Well, meaningful work is, of course, a self-launcher. All who work with children directly experience the positive impact of their work.  
  • But we at Journey have done our homework regarding values and mission. What you look for in vain in some places is summarised here in our so-called Standards, a document accompanying you from day one, like a red thread guiding you when you need orientation. Of course, there is much more to this, but more on that later.  
  • Giving something back to the community? A matter of course at Journey. Connecting to the communities is a big concern for us, and numerous cooperations exist. Every employee also has a Paid Volunteer Day per year so that you can support your favourite projects.  
  • And positive feedback? It’s our number one discipline! We strive to reflect on everything we do together. Performance is rewarded, and successes are celebrated together. That is a great feeling.  

 

Positive Relationships 

One of the most significant factors in happiness at work is positive relationships. According to a study by the University of Warwick, happy workers are 12% more productive than their unhappy counterparts, and positive relationships majorly contribute to that happiness. We feel more engaged and invested in our work when we have strong relationships with colleagues and managers. Additionally, positive relationships can create a sense of support and camaraderie, which can be essential during challenging times. 

Being respectful, empathetic, and open-minded is essential to cultivating positive work relationships. This can involve actively listening to others, being willing to compromise and collaborate, and celebrating the team’s successes. Additionally, regular team-building activities or social events can be a great way to strengthen relationships and create a sense of unity within the workplace. 

 

The Journey Check: 

  • If you look at the attention to detail that has gone into the setups of our recreation rooms for educators, you might already suspect that they will also be used: For workshops, shared meals, and small and large celebrations. Team cohesion is an essential building block at Journey.  
  • Did you know: There is no role at Journey with no responsible contact point for support? However, you are never alone; the regular exchange between the centres is also integral.  
  • And the management? The two founders of Journey are to be seen more in the centres than behind their desks. Because what they do is close to their hearts.
  • And the rest of the support office? They are always just an email or phone call away if they are not there anyway.  
     

Shaping possibilities 

Having a sense of autonomy and control over our work is another crucial factor in happiness at work. A study by the University of Birmingham found that employees with more shaping possibilities within their work reported higher levels of job satisfaction and better mental health. When we feel like we have some control over our work, we’re more likely to feel invested in it and motivated to do our best. Additionally, this can create a sense of trust and respect between employees and managers, which can contribute to a positive work environment. 

Offering opportunities for employees to take on leadership roles or contribute to decision-making can be a great way to promote this. Open communication between managers and employees can also help employees feel valued and heard, even when faced with challenges. 

 

The Journey Check: 

  • What is just as natural for us is that we pay attention and that everyone is heard. Every opinion is valuable; every idea can further us on our common Path to Exceeding.  
  • Anyone who has followed the stories of our colleagues on social media can immediately see that Journey places much value on giving team members opportunities for further development. This is a matter of course for us.  
  • And we even give them the tools to do so, which is a perfect segue to the next aspect of what makes people happy at work.  

 

Opportunities for Growth 

Having opportunities for growth and development is another factor in happiness at work. A study by Harvard Business Review found that employees who felt like they were learning and growing on the job reported higher levels of job satisfaction and happiness. We’re more likely to feel fulfilled and motivated when we can develop new skills, take on new challenges, and advance our careers. Additionally, having growth opportunities can create a sense of investment in our work. To promote opportunities for growth and development, employers can consider providing regular training and skill-building workshops the study recommends. 

 

The Journey Check: 

 

Did we tick all your boxes?

 
The bottom line is that we can, with a clear conscience, make a dent in the aspects of a happy workplace highlighted by the studies. What is unique about this is that this is not just a compulsory exercise for us; we want to fulfil all these criteria because we honestly care about our team. And we didn’t need studies for that, but an open ear and a heart that beats for our team alone.

Does that sound good to you? Then take a look at our current job offers!
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