In today’s fast-paced and ever changing world, setting stretch goals is essential for growth. But there is a secret: goals do not get accomplished just because they’re written down or we talk about them, they get accomplished by engaged and motivated people who take action.
Happier, engaged employees don’t just work harder, they work smarter, collaborate better, and persist through tough times or challenges and barriers that appear before them.
So, how exactly does happiness at work drive goal achievement?
Engaged employees are emotionally invested in their work. Yes, emotions are a very important piece of the puzzle. These employees don’t just show up, but they show up with purpose and drive. Research shows that engaged workers are:
- 21% more productive than their disengaged counterparts (Gallup)
- 87% less likely to leave the organization (Apollo Technical LLC)
- 41% less likely to be absent (Time Doctor)
When employees are engaged in what they do, they align their goals with the company’s vision, making them more motivated to achieve the goals that have been set. They want to stay and be part of the team, rather then looking for the next job that pays $1 more an hour. Absenteeism and turnover costs cost companies a lot of money, so let’s focus on how to provide more happiness and engagement at work.
Let’s remember that happier employees are generally your high performers. Happiness isn’t just about smiling faces, though we love a contagious smile, but it’s about creating a positive work environment that empowers people to be at their best. Happier employees are naturally more creative and innovative, better problem-solvers, and more resilient in the face of setbacks or challenges. And if you are money motivated, this can lead to cost savings or increased sales which means more profit.
When employees feel valued and heard, they’re more likely to hold themselves accountable to their goals and work together with others to overcome obstacles. This leads to faster problem-solving, improved productivity, and ultimately, those goals actually getting accomplished.
To boost engagement and happiness within an organization, leaders must create an environment that fosters clear communication and transparency. When employees understand the ‘why’ or purpose behind goals or what they are doing to help achieve the goals, they feel more connected to the outcome, which enables them to feel more accountable to getting them completed. Keeping employees informed through good communication channels, also allows employees to provide feedback, talk about obstacles and challenges, or work on bettering the team or organization.
We cannot forget the importance of recognition and appreciation in an engaging and happier workplace. Remember that celebrating small wins or milestones works to boosts morale and keeps teams motivated. Rewards and appreciation don’t have to be expensive, or cost money at all, to keep your workforce happier. A simple thank you, detailing out why you are thanking them and what benefits it has on the organization, can go a long way with employees feeling appreciated.
Another way to encourage a happier and more engaged workforce is to ensure their ability to grow and develop within their role or in a new role, or by helping in projects that excite them. Engaged employees want to learn and grow, so investing in leadership development programs or other skill development activities empowers them to develop themselves and even reach their full potential.
When employees are engaged and happy, they’re not just meeting goals but they can actually help with exceeding them. They become more productive, proactive, collaborative, and driven, turning even the most ambitious goals into achievable milestones.
What can you do today to start to have a happier and more engaged workforce?
Written by: Tara Lehman
