This one thing makes you happier at work than a bigger salary

It's not a desk near a window either 

This one thing will change the game for workplace culture. Image: Getty

While high salaries and work perks may seem like the most important part of a job, studies show that kindness goes a lot further. Here's how you can cultivate a kindness culture at your place of work. 

It's been a huge few years. The COVID-19 pandemic swept the globe, leaving unprecedented change in its wake. More recently, the rising cost of living continues to impact heavily on people, and happiness is rapidly declining in workplaces. 

We often believe that more money will be the answer to all our problems, and while it is important, a recent study has shown that kindness at work - and to self - is more critical for our happiness than money. 

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So, how is kindness more important than a bigger salary for our happiness?

If you have ever worked in an un-kind organisational culture, then you will understand how difficult it is to keep showing up. When you feel like you are ‘just a number’, undervalued and not treated with respect, your fingers will quickly hit the keyboard in search of another opportunity. Often, we don’t want to leave a job we once loved, yet when things become uncomfortable and unhappy from an emotional perspective, we seek external validation in a higher salary or in another organisation. 

Yet, even with more money, if you remain in an un-kind workplace, the shine soon dims on that extra remuneration. The cycle of dissatisfaction perpetuates, eroding the initial allure of a higher salary. Ultimately, the toxic environment takes a toll on your overall well-being, overshadowing any financial gains.

In my workshops and mentoring programs, I often hear people say in hushed tones that they believe kindness could be perceived by their teams and peers as ‘weak’ or ‘less impactful’. Yet, research shows that working kinder not only has a significant effect on our mental health and wellbeing, but the tangible benefits for the organisation are tremendous. 

Kindness in the workplace makes all the difference. Image: Getty

Kindness actively promoted at work can help you feel happier, more engaged and connected. In addition, by championing kindness, an organisation becomes a trusted employer of choice. The knock-on effects of this include higher productivity and job satisfaction, less attrition and sick leave, greater staff cohesion and positive outcomes for service delivery.   

Not buying it? Picture a job you really enjoyed and think about what made you excited to do it. If you remained in that job, what kept you there? More than likely, it was a combination of doing something that felt meaningful with a caring team around you. Kindness is a key component to creating and maintaining workplace happiness. The more we feel like we matter, the more likely it is we share that with others. 

Science tells us that kindness is contagious and a single act of kindness can impact around 125 people. When you think about an organisation and the humans within it, the impact of working kinder can be immense. 

Now that we've recognised just how transformative it can be to nurture a culture of kindness in a workplace, here are five practical tips that can help turn this idea into reality.

Turn your workplace into a kind environment. Image: Getty

#1. Interact with others mindfully

Smile and compliment someone. A smile and a kind word break down barriers, boost feel-good hormones and creates connection. As an aside, make sure your compliment is personalised, genuine and appropriate for workplace interactions.

Make an effort to say good morning and check in with your team, either face-to-face or online and ask if there is anything they need from you that week. Showing genuine care and love for those you work with helps people to feel seen, heard and valued.

#2. ‘No’ is a complete sentence

Lead yourself with self-kindness by setting boundaries. Role modelling this and being clear with others what you will/won't do or accept for your own wellbeing, creates consistency and trust. Boundaries are often underutilised or misunderstood, and saying ‘no’ kindly can be a game-changer when it comes to happiness at work (and personally!).

No is a complete sentence! Image: Unsplash

#3. Bring the outside, in – or go outside

In our fast-paced online world, we’re growing disconnected not only from ourselves, but from the natural world. High-rise offices, unopenable windows, and electronic devices seemingly glued to our bodies have become the norm. To give yourself a mood and energy boost, go for a walk in your breaks, find some grass and kick your shoes off. Take a few deep belly breaths and close your eyes for a few moments. This will ground you, calm your mind and nervous system and help you to feel motivated for the remainder of your day. 

If taking a break outside is not an option, adopt a desk plant so you have fresh oxygen near you and something that brightens your space. Self-kindness and nature go hand in hand.

#4. Find a supportive network

No one who succeeds ever does it on their own. Some of the most successful and happy humans in the world openly share how they surround themselves with a strong support network. Utilise collaborative groups, professional membership bodies, mentors (official and unofficial) and peers. Never be afraid to ask for help either, humility builds trust and creates greater connection. Tap into these support networks to gain confidence in how you can ask for what you need at work with kindness and confidence. 

A supportive workplace will be the difference between employees staying or going. Image: Getty

#5. What you walk past, you accept

This one is powerful. A primary reason we can feel unhappy at work is due to perceived (or actual) inequality and inappropriate behaviour. Nothing dampens enthusiasm and happiness faster than seeing someone do something misaligned with the company values, and it not being addressed or resolved. No amount of money can bring back happiness and satisfaction if other staff members are allowed to behave inappropriately. Clear, kind expectations keep us accountable and happier in the long term.  

Money is important. Of course a higher salary makes a difference – but is usually only short-lived. Kindness is meaningful, generous and creates sustainable happiness. Not only do we help others feel good, we feel wonderful too.

Originally published as This one thing makes you happier at work than a bigger salary