Boosting Joy and Productivity: Celebrating the International Week of Happiness at Work

The International Week of Happiness at Work was created to improve workplace culture globally and deserves plenty of celebration.

The week typically takes place in the last week of September.  This year, it runs from the 23rd to the 27th. Founded in 2018 by Maartje Wolff and Fennande van der Meulen, the campaign aims to highlight the significance of happiness in the workplace. Its philosophy is rooted in the belief that satisfaction at work should not be an exception but the norm.

According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report, 60 percent of people reported being emotionally detached at work, and 19 percent were described as miserable in data collected in 2022.  Therefore, the International Week of Happiness at Work is essential to restoring joy in the workplace.

After its launch, organizations, and employees began to recognize that fostering an enjoyable job experience is vital for both well-being and productivity. The movement does not have an official governing structure, but company leaders actively engage by organizing workshops, events, and other initiatives that promote a positive workplace culture.  Here are a few ways bosses can acknowledge this week:

Team-building activities

Organize fun activities that encourage collaboration and bonding among employees. This can include department bowling nights, group challenges, and team games, which help strengthen relationships and break down silos.

Employee recognition programs
Employee recognition programs have been shown to boost morale and productivity in the workplace. Set up initiatives to acknowledge and reward employees for their hard work and dedication.

Desk or office decorating challenge
Encourage employees to brighten up their workspace with fun decorations and photos. This is a way to personalize the space where people spend most of their day. Offer a contest for the best-decorated setup, with a prize for the winner.

Catered lunch
During the week of festivities, catering lunch can show appreciation to employees. It can also help those who rush to clock in and forget their lunch.

Mental health initiatives
Provide mental health support through programs such as meditation sessions, stress management webinars, or free counseling. Promoting mental health awareness demonstrates that the organization prioritizes its workers’ overall well-being.