In How to Be Happy at Work, Annie McKee observes that almost anyone can fall prey to old myths and happiness traps that keep them down and prevent them from creating or sustaining their work life they want. She helps her readers to examine how and why they have adopted self-defeating attitudes and behaviors. “Reflecting on your beliefs will help you to hone your self-awareness – a competency that is essential if you are to break free from mindsets that no longer serve you well.”
She recommends five specific initiatives in Chapter 2, Pages 44-45. Here are the first two:
1. ”Review the common myths and happiness traps discussed in this chapter [e.g. Overwork, Money, Ambition, ‘Should,’ and Helplessness]. Choose one or two that you know affect you and impact your work.”
2. “Now, let’s look at where this happiness trap or myth came from. Draw a timeline from your birth year until today, and write notes about major childhood, school, work, and life events.”
She is convinced – and I wholeheartedly agree – that activating and then nourishing one’s emotional intelligence can help to avoid or overcome these and other daunting barriers. Think of EI as a muscle that can be strengthened significantly by continuous and rigorous practice.
Many people struggle with the competing demands of their personal life and their professional career. These obligations and priorities often seem mutually-exclusive. They need not be.
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Annie McKee is a bestselling business book author and advisor to top global leaders, from CEOs of Fortune 50 companies to government officials South Africa. To learn more about her and her brilliant work, please click here.
How to Be Happy at Work: The Power of Purpose, Hope, and Friendship was published by Harvard Business Review Press (September 2017).