Joy in Work
Joy in work might seem like an idea that’s superficial or unattainable. But it’s vital, and more important than ever.
Joy in work is about being connected with what you do and why you do it. It’s the feeling of success and fulfillment that comes from doing work that matters. It connects us with colleagues and patients through a sense of shared purpose.
Joy in work is practical and science-based, according to the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, which has taken the lead in researching the subject. Studies link joy in work to reduced turnover, higher productivity and improved patient experience, outcomes and safety.
It doesn’t mean there won’t be fatigue, long hours and tough days. But cultivating joy in work creates the deep engagement that helps keep stress from turning into burnout — which was a serious issue in U.S. health care even before COVID-19 arrived on the scene.
Take the time to explore what brings joy in work to you and your team. Everyone will benefit.
Finding Your Why
- Joy in Work: Tips for Teams How team members can help each other find fulfillment in their jobs.
- Joy in Work: Tips for Team Members Why do you do what you do?
- Joy in Work: A Guide to Making Every Moment Count Fill out this Venn diagram to help identify your purpose.
- Joy in Work: What Kind of Employee Do I Want to Be? Improve your responses when you're under stress.
- Using Joy in Work to Improve Staff Wellbeing During Times of Crisis Focus on what matters most.
Videos
- How Does Joy in Work Advance Health Care Quality and Safety? IHI President Emeritus Don Berwick discusses why joy in work is important in health care.
- Four Steps Leaders Can Take to Increase Joy in Work Learn about how to build joy in work through trust and strong relationships with your team.
- The Happy Secret to Better Work Psychologist Shawn Achor says happiness makes us more productive.