If You’re Happy and You Know It, Will It Last?

By Michelle Malay Carter on May 5, 2008 

happiness.jpgI’m finally reading Upping The Downside. The first half of the book features articles by a variety of authors. At least two discuss the concept of feel-good happiness versus values-based happiness as coined by Dr. Steven Reiss.

Feel-Good Happiness
Americans consume as a means of chasing feel-good happiness like a drug addict desperate to score his next hit. Unfortunately, like a drug high, feel-good happiness is fleeting.

Values-Based Happiness
Conversely, values-based happiness can be experienced even when we feel badly. It is the general feeling of well being derived from living a meaningful life.

The Disengagement Ripple Effect
One place people have an opportunity to feel purposeful is at work, but the research is showing only 20% of us are engaged at work. You’re blind if you don’t see the widespread social implications of this statistic.

I’m OK. You’re OK. Let’s fix the system.?

Which form of happiness are you chasing?

Filed Under Corporate Values, Employee Engagement, Organization Design, Talent Management

Comments

4 Responses to “If You’re Happy and You Know It, Will It Last?”

  1. Eric Pennington on May 7th, 2008 11:17 am

    Great post, Michelle. Your points are not only informed, but rather prophetic. We need to remember that we do have a choice in these matters.

    The disengagement piece is also a result of businesses failing to realize that human beings desire adventure and greatness (the scale is relative). Sadly, many have deadened their senses to those desires.

    When organizations don’t call their people and authentically move to adventure and greatness, then a vacum is created.

    I’m optimistic that people will move to a better future. Your blog is a part of that ripple effect.

  2. Michelle Malay Carter on May 7th, 2008 11:40 am

    Hi Eric,

    Thanks for the comment. Yes, it seems employees are filling the void created by unfulfilling work with “toys”, addictions and a variety of other coping mechanisms.

    I’m OK. You’re OK. Let’s continue to buck the system by arming readers with knowledge and encouragement towards a better way.

    Regards,

    Michelle

  3. Robyn on May 10th, 2008 8:22 pm

    I’ve been unemployed for several months and chasing engagement and substantive work. I deal with it by volunteering and by writing a blog and reading and considering the thoughts of others in the blogosphere. I also go to as many (free) conferences (like Stanford’s d.school “Infectious Engagement”) and discussions as possible and participate in online communities addressing topics I find thought-provoking and from which I can learn. Your blog is an example of information sharing I find both mindful and encouraging.

  4. Michelle Malay Carter on May 11th, 2008 7:23 am

    Hi Robyn,

    Thank you for your kind words. It’s frustrating to be under utilized or summarily unconsidered for certain jobs when you don’t have a degree.

    I’m doing my best to start a revolution where organizations will do a better job at matching people to roles – degree or no degree, experience or no experience – that will tap their full potential.

    Help me spread the word!

    Best wishes,

    Michelle