Pass the Happy!

It’s Monday.  Like Bob Geldof, many people “don’t like Mondays” and many of those people work with you or for you.  So here is my question:  what are you going to do about it?  Right – you! These things don’t happen by themselves and it turns out that YOU can help.  Here’s how:

if you’re a manager of others, say thanks!  Thanks for showing up on Monday and for bringing a good attitude with you.  If you say the same thing to your co-workers, even if you’re not in charge, they’ll appreciate it too.

You bosses out there can spread more happiness if you’re sure those very same people know what’s expected of them each and every day and by giving them the things they need to do their jobs.  Hopefully you’ll do so before they have to ask – it shows you’re paying attention and you care!  You should also think about handing out some sort of recognition to folks who have did some good work last week- words are just fine, it doesn’t have to be expensive – that’s brief but sincere.  Everyone needs it and I think the lower someone is in the workplace hierarchy, the more they need and appreciate sincere praise.

Do something surprising – have  chat with someone that lets them know you value them as a friend, coworker, fellow prisoner – whatever.  Don’t talk about work.  And DON’T cross over the line into “trip to HR” country.

But the best way might be to be happy yourself.  It’s contagious, particularly if you’re the one in charge and people are taking their cues from you.